CB Dane Cruikshank:
Scouting Reports:
Arizona Profile: http://arizonawildcats.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5629
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/dane-cruikshank?id=2559971
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=1019437&draftyear=2018&genpos=CB
Articles:
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: Defensive backs (Studs - Dane Cruikshank (Arizona) is a name we have brought up several times at Lions Wire when talking safeties and his 4.42 40-yard dash should definitely keep the Lions interested.) (3-5-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/05/nfl-combine-studs-duds-defensive-backs/
Notes From Combine Training: Settle looks cat-quik (Dane Cruikshank of Arizona, who lined up at the spur position (strong safety) last season and went on to have a great week at cornerback during Shrine Game practices, has looked really good in combine prep. I’m told there’s a chance that Cruikshank, who measured 6-foot-1 and 204 pounds at the Shrine Game, could run in the 4.3s. If he does, expect him to jump into the early part of Round 4.) (2-18-18): http://draftanalyst.com/notes-combine-training-settle-looks-cat-quik
2018 NFL Draft Stock - East-West Shrine (Dane Cruikshank, CB, Arizona: The West team did not have a standout group of cornerbacks, but one corner who earned some praise from team scouts is Arizona's Dane Cruikshank. The 6-foot-1, 206-pounder has excellent size for the position, and he also moves pretty well with athleticism. Cruikshank is steady in coverage to run routes and prevent separation. He does have issues with deep speed, and that could be seen early in the West's practices. For the NFL, he could be a sleeper corner to match up against big receivers and should be protected from going against smaller speed receivers.) (1-18-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_20.php
Shrine Practice Winners- Defense (Dane Cruikshank/CB/Arizona: The big cornerback passes the eyeball test at first glance and was even more impressive once the whistle blew to start drills. He was incredibly quick, fluid and polished in all fundamentals of his position. Cruikshank showed outstanding ball skills from the first day of practice and played to his size. The whispers about his draft position in April start in the fourth round or potentially a frame higher, depending how he runs at the combine. I’m hoping he’s a late addition to the Senior Bowl.) (1-18-18): http://draftanalyst.com/shrine-practice-winners-defense
Shrine Game -- Wednesday Notes (We wrote up Arizona cornerback Dane Cruikshank last night, and I’m told his schedule has been full of interviews over the past few days. Interviews of note include the New York Jets and Detroit Lions, who had their general managers on hand to speak with Cruikshank.) (1-17-18): http://draftanalyst.com/shrine-game-wednesday-notes
Shrine Practice -- Wednesday PM Report (Dane Cruikshank/CB/Arizona: Cruikshank was mentioned in our notes section yesterday, and he took it to another level this afternoon. He stood out in drills, displaying the quickest backpedal and hip turn of any defensive back and the most explosive plant and drive to the ball. I’m still a little concerned about his ability to make plays with his back to the ball, but Cruikshank is a tall, athletic, good-looking corner who could be selected in the draft much earlier than anyone is presently predicting.) (1-17-18): http://draftanalyst.com/shrine-practice-wednesday-pm-report
2018 East-West Shrine Game: Wednesday's West Team Practice Report (Arizona's Dane Cruikshank is another defensive back who has had a good week of practice. He had a few good plays in coverage Wednesday. He came close to a diving interception in the team scrimmage and was getting a lot of praise from teammates for coming close to a fantastic play. Cruikshank had a nice pass break-up in the seven-on-seven portion of the practice as well.) (1-17-18): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2018practice6.php
Shrine Practice -- Tuesday PM Report (Cornerback Dane Cruikshank of Arizona has had his moments on the field but has also shown a bit of inconsistency. He’s a long corner who measures over six feet tall, and I’m told he’ll run in the 4.3s during workouts. He made several brilliant plays today but also had a few moments where scouts were left scratching their heads. I’m hearing that he’s pegged for the middle rounds, and if he pulls it together Cruikshank could develop into a starter at the next level.) (1-16-18): http://draftanalyst.com/shrine-practice-tuesday-pm-report
2018 East-West Shrine Game: Tuesday's West Team Practice Report (The West team does not have a standout group of cornerbacks, but one corner who has earned some praise from team scouts is Arizona's Dane Cruikshank. The 6-foot-1, 206-pounder has excellent size for the position, and he also proves pretty well with athleticism. Cruikshank has been steady in coverage to run routes and prevent separation. In the early portion of the team scrimmage, Cruikshank had an interception on a under thrown pass. He has issues with deep speed, and that could be seen early in practice. For the NFL, he could be a sleeper corner to matchup against big receivers and should be protected from going against smaller speed receivers.) (1-16-17): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2018practice4.php
2018 Shrine Game: West Practice (Monday-Tuesday) (Arizona CB Dane Cruikshank is an impressive physical specimen who has picked off passes both days. He does not lack vocal self-confidence.) (1-16-18): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3028/2018-Shrine-Game-West-Practice-Monday-Tuesday
Shrine Game Day 2 Notebook: Memphis QB emulates Brett Favre (Arizona CB Dane Cruikshank of the West team made a nice pass breakup on a throw to the sideline Tuesday.) (1-16-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000907394/article/shrine-game-day-2-notebook-memphis-qb-emulates-brett-favre
Arizona Wildcats rewind: Five takeaways from the UA’s 38-35 loss to Purdue in the Foster Farms Bowl (3. Great Dane: Senior safety Dane Cruikshank was Arizona’s best defensive player in the Foster Farms Bowl. Cruikshank finished with eight tackles, a sack and three pass breakups. He made plays near the line of scrimmage and in coverage. When Yates shifted Cruikshank from cornerback to “Spur” in training camp, some were skeptical: Why deplete a thin position to supplement a deep one? It turned out to be the right move for all parties. It also showed that when it comes to the secondary, Yates really knows his stuff. He might have even helped turn Cruikshank into a legitimate pro prospect. Cruikshank will participate in the upcoming East-West Shrine game, along with guard Jacob Alsadek. Whether they get drafted is a big deal, not only for them but for the UA program. Arizona hasn’t had a ton of players drafted in recent years – none in 2013, ’15 or ’17; and no one picked higher than the fourth round since Nick Foles went in Round 3 in 2012. Why does this matter? It hurts recruiting. It’s hard to sell players on the idea that they’ll develop into pros at Arizona if there’s little recent evidence to support that contention.) (12-30-17): http://tucson.com/sports/arizonawildcats/football/arizona-wildcats-rewind-five-takeaways-from-the-ua-s-/article_ee053260-edac-11e7-8cea-4343562e595e.html
NFL Draft: Prospects to watch in each college football bowl game (Foster Farms Bowl: Arizona vs. Purdue - Dane Cruikshank, CB, Arizona: Cruikshank boasts great length and ball skills for the position. He attacks the ball with the mindset of a receiver, though his feel for the receiver and ability to stay tight on the inside needs improvement) (12-26-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-college-football-bowl-games-grades-analysis/efidru6bmary13kqi5ju6f37m
Scouting the Foster Farms Bowl: Arizona vs. Purdue (Arizona’s lone potential draftee is cornerback Dane Cruikshank, who received some sixth-round grades from scouts in the preseason. At 6-foot-2 and 208 pounds with below-average speed and quickness, Cruikshank may fit better at the safety position in the NFL than cornerback, where he can show off his hard-hitting skills without having to play often in man coverage or with his back to the ball. He managed just two pass defenses on the season.) (12-22-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-foster-farms-bowl-arizona-vs-purdue
Notes, quotes and stats from the Arizona Wildcats’ 49-35 loss to USC (Senior safety Dane Cruikshank tied his career high with 10 tackles. He also recorded his second interception.) (11-4-17): http://tucson.com/sports/arizonawildcats/football/notes-quotes-and-stats-from-the-arizona-wildcats--/article_450d7960-c20f-11e7-bd76-db04fe6e4ddc.html
Former cornerback Dane Cruikshank has become Wildcats’ Spur of the moment (10-20-17): http://tucson.com/former-cornerback-dane-cruikshank-has-become-wildcats-spur-of-the/article_6b6339cc-b5eb-11e7-be8e-d76a0c63baf7.html
Scouting the Pac-12: Arizona (Cruikshank offers terrific size measuring 6-foot-2 and 208 pounds. Physical, he’s a hard-hitting defensive back who jars opponents and knocks the ball loose. He’s fluid in transition and works to make plays but lacks overall speed and quickness and struggles when his back is to the ball. I think he could land a roster spot at the next level -- not at cornerback but as a zone safety.) (8-28-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-pac-12-arizona
CB Davontae Harris:
Scouting Reports:
Illinois State Profile: http://goredbirds.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5246
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/davontae-harris?id=2559972
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=1020898&draftyear=2018&genpos=CB
Articles:
Detroit Lions - Wisconsin linebacker Leon Jacobs and Illinois State cornerback Davontae Harris (1-16-18): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2018interviews4.php
ISU defensive stars featured on numerous All-American teams (1-2-17): http://www.chicagonow.com/prairie-state-pigskin/2018/01/isu-defensive-stars-featured-on-numerous-all-american-teams/
2018 East-West Shrine Game: Tuesday's West Team Practice Report (Illinois State cornerback Davontae Harris (6-0, 205) has good size to him and is a solid in zone coverage. However, Harris struggles with deep speed. That could be seen from his college tape in the back half of the season and in St. Petersburg. Harris shouldn't go to teams that play a lot of off man coverage. He could be a fit and make a team that plays a lot of zone and maybe some press man technique.) (1-16-18): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2018practice4.php
2018 Shrine Game: West Practice (Monday-Tuesday) (Arizona CB Dane Cruikshank is an impressive physical specimen who has picked off passes both days. He does not lack vocal self-confidence. The same is true of Illinois State’s Davontae Harris, a natural ballhawk. Harris reminds me some of Brian Poole from Florida and now the Falcons, though Harris isn’t as powerful. He will be drafted and could play as a slot corner early.) (1-16-18): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3028/2018-Shrine-Game-West-Practice-Monday-Tuesday
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Bowls (Davontae Harris, CB, Illinois State: Harris (6-0, 190) impressed scouting sources this season and will play at the East-West Shrine in January. The 6-foot, 205-pounder has good size and some movement skills. In 2017, Harris totaled 57 tackles with two interceptions, 14 passes broken up, two sacks and 4.5 tackles for a loss. Harris could rise with a strong week in St. Petersburg.) (12-12-17): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_15.php
15 non-Power-Five prospects that will be NFL stars (15. Davontae Harris, CB, Illinois State: Harris is a physical player. He consistently challenges receivers when uncovered in the nickel spot. Harris had four pass breakups against South Dakota State last weekend, giving him 34 in three seasons. If he doesn't test well in the draft process, though, it's possible he could lose this spot to another well-regarded FCS prospect, Southern's Danny Johnson.) (11-16-17): http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000877938
Moving the Chains with . . . ISU cornerback Davontae Harris (10-24-17): http://www.chicagonow.com/prairie-state-pigskin/2017/10/moving-the-chains-with-isu-cornerback-davontae-harris/
Resilient Redbirds rebound with impressive triumph (Players of the Game - Senior defensive back Davontae Harris led ISU with 11 tackles (eight solo), an interception and a quarterback hurry.) (10-21-17): http://www.chicagonow.com/prairie-state-pigskin/2017/10/resilient-redbirds-rebound-with-impressive-triumph/
ISU cornerback drawing NFL interest from 'all 32 teams' (9-28-17): http://www.chicagonow.com/prairie-state-pigskin/2017/09/isu-cornerback-drawing-nfl-interest-from-all-32-teams/
Interview with a small school hero: Davontae Harris, DB, Illinois State (8-25-17): https://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/davontae-harris/
CB Kameron Kelly:
Scouting Reports:
SDSU Profile: http://www.goaztecs.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/kameron_kelly_914431.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/kameron-kelly?id=2560094
Draft wire Kameron Kelly NFL draft profile: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/25/kameron-kelly-nfl-draft-profile/
Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=131536&draftyear=2018&genpos=CB
2018 NFL Combine Stock Report - Defensive Backs (Kameron Kelly struggled at the combine. He posted a poor 40 of 4.66, and his 3-cone time was a dreadful 6.94. Teams undoubtedly will be thinking that Kelly will have to move from cornerback to safety.) (3-5-18): http://walterfootball.com/combine2018stockDB.php
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Analysis: Switching from safety to corner this season was a boon to Kelly's production, but he played mostly safety in Mobile and had his share of issues covering tight ends, some of whom outweighed him by 50-plus pounds. He was better against receivers despite getting embarrassed by Byron Pringle after a short catch and showed good ball skills, and it's likely that the team drafting him will look to play him outside rather than at safety.) (1-26-18): draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl Thursday South Practice Report (San Diego State cornerback Kameron Kelly struggled to run with Chark as the Tiger wideout was able to get space from Kelly coming out of his breaks.) (1-25-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018practice7.php
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Wed: Kelly had some struggles in coverage against both receivers and tight ends. Byron Pringle made him go to the ground with a sharp move after the catch, but Kelly was able to stand up Darrel Williams at the goal line by getting lower than the 230-pound running back.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Tues: The ball skills Kelly showed at San Diego State translated to the practice field Tuesday, as he showed good timing, extension and was a smooth mover on the field.) (1-23-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl: Defensive prospects who can enter first-round talk if they impress (Kameron Kelly, CB, San Diego State: A former safety, Kelly smoothly transitioned to the cornerback spot in 2017 and flourished. At around 6-2 and about 200 pounds, the San Diego State standout shuts down wideouts with his length on the outside. At the Senior Bowl, he not only has to dominate with his frame, but Kelly could see a big stock boost if he displays the quickness needed to stick with smaller receivers in one-on-one drills and when he's on an island in the game.) (1-18-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-senior-bowl-defensive-prospects-who-can-enter-first-round-talk-if-they-impress/
2018 NFL Draft: Kameron Kelly and the 'other' cornerbacks capable of thriving (Kameron Kelly, San Diego State: A former safety, Kelly seemingly made the correct decision to move to cornerback in his final season at San Diego State. The 6-foot-2, 200-plus pounder sustained his hard-hitting ability when attacking bubble screens and run plays to the outside yet demonstrated fluidity as a corner. He was a do-everything defensive back for the Aztecs this season, as he tallied 67 tackles, five tackles for loss, two sacks, three interceptions and seven pass breakups. He has the size, athletic talents, and physical nature to be a No. 1 corner in the NFL. With a strong showing at the combine, Kelly should rocket up draft boards.) (1-13-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-kameron-kelly-and-the-other-cornerbacks-capable-of-thriving/
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Week 3 Bowls (Kameron Kelly, CB, San Diego State: The 6-foot-2, 200-pound Kelly is a big cornerback who put together an impressive 2017 season for the Aztecs. He totaled 68 tackles with eight passes broken up, three interceptions and two sacks on the year. In 2016, Kelly was impressive with five interceptions, six pass breakups and 38 tackles. He projects as a potential press-man corner for the NFL. After his strong senior, Kelly will play in the Senior Bowl. If he runs well against speed receivers in Mobile, his stock could skyrocket.) (1-2-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_18.php
NFL Draft: Prospects to watch in each college football bowl game (Armed Forces Bowl: San Diego State vs. Army - Kameron Kelly, CB, San Diego State: Kelly offers tremendous upside at both safety and cornerback, both of which he has experience playing. Kelly flips his hips naturally without losing receiver or ball contact. He has some tackling inconsistencies and needs to be more physical in protecting against interior routes.) (12-26-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-college-football-bowl-games-grades-analysis/efidru6bmary13kqi5ju6f37m
2018 NFL draft prospects to watch during college bowls, Week 2 (San Diego State CB Kameron Kelly: Kelly has had a nose for the football in 2017, especially when he was tasked with rushing the passer, albeit on just very few occasions. On his eight pass-rushing snaps, Kelly brought in four total QB pressures, including two sacks, one hit and one hurry. In coverage for the Aztecs this year, Kelly also had a knack for getting his hands on the ball and keeping his receivers in front of him. On 64 targets, Kelly allowed just 34 receptions and brought in three interceptions of his own while adding an additional four pass breakups. Of his 34 catches allowed, he allowed an average of just 4.14 yards after the catch per reception and in four games this year, allowed a catch rate of 25.0 percent or lower.) (12-22-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-during-college-bowls-week-2
Scouting the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: San Diego State vs. Army (After we graded him as a Day 3 prospect at safety, Kameron Kelly moved to cornerback this season and his draft stock is on the upswing as a result. A Week 13 riser, Kelly set a new career high with 62 tackles while intercepting three passes, continuing to show the ball skills that ranked him third in the Mountain West with five interceptions as a junior. At 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds with 4.5 speed, he has the measurables to succeed at the next level as his game continues to round out at his new position, especially if he improves playing with his back to the ball.) (12-15-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-lockheed-martin-armed-forces-bowl-san-diego-state-vs-army
Week 13 Risers and Sliders (Kameron Kelly/DB/San Diego State: We graded Kelly as a draftable safety after his sophomore and junior campaigns, but the switch to cornerback this season has resulted in his draft stock exploding. Kelly quickly took to his new position in 2017, intercepting three passes and breaking up eight more while also posting 62 tackles, third-best on the Aztec defense. Kelly has the size (6-foot, 200 pounds), speed (4.52s 40) and ball skills to line up in nickel packages at the next level. And though he must improve his skill making plays with his back to the ball, Kelly could jump into the draft’s second day with a good postseason.) (11-27-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-13-risers-sliders
CB Darius Phillips:
Scouting Reports:
Western Michigan Profile: http://wmubroncos.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4740
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/darius-phillips?id=2559919
Draft Wire: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/21/darius-phillips-nfl-draft-profile/
Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=1006681&draftyear=2018&genpos=CB
Articles:
Mike Mayock's takeaways from Day 4 of NFL Scouting Combine (Darius Phillips, Western Michigan: After Phillips ran a 4.54 in the 40, Mayock gushed over Phillips' promise. "He's quicker than fast. His return game is ridiculous. ... He's always around the ball, and he's slow, but he's gifted. When I say slow, don't take that the wrong way -- he's got long speed.") (3-5-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000919524/article/mike-mayocks-takeaways-from-day-4-of-nfl-scouting-combine
2018 NFL Combine: Derwin James, Jaire Alexander stand out in DB group (Losers - Darius Phillips, Western Michigan - Running 4.54 isn't necessarily slow, but for a corner with dynamic returning ability who weighed 193 pounds and measured in slightly below 5-10, many were expecting a faster time.) (3-5-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-derwin-james-jaire-alexander-stand-out-in-db-group/
Video - Darius Phillips' draft diary: NFL combine (Entry 1) (3-2-18): https://www.freep.com/videos/sports/college/2018/02/27/darius-phillips-draft-diary-nfl-combine/110913782/
Western CB Phillips bears similarity to Lions’ Agnew (1-26-18): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/2018/01/26/western-cb-phillips-bears-similarities-lions-agnew/109836940/
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Thurs: Phillips left the Senior Bowl due to his ankle injury.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Wed: Phillips missed practice with an ankle injury.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Tues: Phillips got beat early down the sideline by Cedrick Wilson but avoided getting beat too badly the rest of practice.) (1-23-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl: Day One (Western Michigan CB Darius Phillips: Where do your ball skills come from?: Me being a former receiver really gives me a great advantage in attacking the football. The conversation with coach Fleck to move from receiver to corner was hard at first. Happened after redshirt freshman season. Tested the position form winter conditioning to spring practice and “grew to love it.” How are you so successful as a kick returner?: We switch up the return scheme every week. Coach scouts the kickoff team, puts the scheme in and we try to perfect it. Returned kicks since 9th grade. What do coaches think of your “gambling” tendencies?: They try to reel me in a little bit. My old coach gave me more leeway, but the current coach tried to reel me in. Did you like that? Do you want to gamble?: (Smirks) I love to gamble. It’s a risk versus a reward. I get what they are saying, too.) (1-23-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77491/351/2018-senior-bowl-day-one
PFF's 2018 Senior Bowl coverage (Western Michigan cornerback Darius Phillips looks good through all his movements, and is taking turns fielding punts) (1-23-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pffs-2018-senior-bowl-coverage
Video - Darius Phillips: Battles with Corey Davis helpful (1-23-18): www.freep.com/videos/sports/college/2018/01/23/darius-phillips-battles-corey-davis-helpful/109741884/
Senior Bowl: 10 players who could help the Lions (Darius Phillips, CB, Western Michigan: The Lions could need some cornerback depth and Phillips, a Detroit native, has some appealing playmaking ability. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed a passer rating of 39.6 when targeted in 2017, and he’s intercepted at least three passes each of the past three seasons. He’s also a dangerous return man, scoring five touchdowns on kickoff returns during his college career.(1-22-18): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/22/senior-bowl-players-help-lions/109708096/
2018 Senior Bowl preview: Cornerbacks (Darrius Phillips: A feisty, athletic cover man who plays bigger than his listed measurements, Phillips is a schooled technician who frustrates opposing receivers with his brain as much as his brawn. In addition to being a lock-down corner, Phillips has been one of the nation’s most dangerous return specialists, taking back a pair of kickoffs back for 100-yard touchdowns in 2017. His size may limit him to the slot at the next level, but he’ll be a quality starter there from Day 1, and his special teams abilities will help him make an instant impact.) (1-22-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/22/2018-senior-bowl-preview-cornerbacks/3/
2018 Senior Bowl Week (Western Michigan CB Darius Phillips - He won’t rank at the top of the list at this event, but Phillips is easily one of my favorite prospects attending. He attacks the football with the goal of breaking up passes or forcing interceptions. He absolutely is a gambler, and that shows more often in zone than it does man coverage. They are different players due to their frames, Phillips is much smaller, but I wonder if his career path could be similar to Josh Norman. Phillips could shine in one on ones since those offer man and press situations. But in zone schemes, we’ve already seen some wonderful stuff. Plus, he is a great returner.) (1-22-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77476/351/2018-senior-bowl-week
2018 NFL Draft: Kameron Kelly and the 'other' cornerbacks capable of thriving (Darius Phillips, Western Michigan: Hobbled by injury for parts of his senior season at Western Michigan, Phillips was an accomplished ball-hawking cornerback and return man for the Broncos during his time in Kalamazoo. Though he doesn't possess great size -- 5-foot-10, 190-pounds -- he's swift mover on every snap which helps to lock into the football often. Phillips recorded 12 interceptions and 35 pass breakups in his final three collegiate seasons. At times he can get overwhelmed by bigger receivers, but his athleticism and refined ball skills make him an intriguing prospect. He also had six return touchdowns (five kick returns, one punt) for Western Michigan.) (1-13-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-kameron-kelly-and-the-other-cornerbacks-capable-of-thriving/
Senior Bowl adds 26 players for 2018 game, including 4 QBs (Darius Phillips, CB, Western Michigan - Electric return man and ball-hawking defensive back. Tied NCAA career-record with five interception return touchdowns. Three interceptions, one pick-six, 2 kick return touchdowns in 2017.) (12-4-17): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2017/12/senior_bowl_adds_26_players_fo.html
Draft Prospecting: Midseason Notes (Perhaps the most electrifying player I’ve seen in person this year is Western Michigan CB Darius Phillips. I wrote this about the dynamic Phillips after seeing him versus Idaho: The standout is Broncos CB/RS Darius Phillips, who once again impressed at both of his roles. Phillips didn’t see much action in coverage, but his tackling was outstanding. He has great strength in his shoulders and extended arm, able to jolt ball carriers. Phillips leverages blocks well and uses the same instant burst he uses to get interceptions to close on the ball. He’s an ideal Cover/Tampa 2 cornerback. Phillips also didn’t get many shots as a return man but maximized the ones he got. The first tackler has yet to get him to the ground on a return this season, and Western Michigan opened at USC and Michigan State, not exactly creampuffs. I’ve watched two more WMU games and feel even better about his tackling and work in the run game. He’s quite functionally strong for a 5-10” (which seems legit) and 190-pound corner. He’s not as instinctive in coverage as the top cover men and can get caught guessing. Phillips loves to bait the QB to throw at him and that won’t fly for everyone in the NFL, where QBs will have better arm strength and receivers will have more speed and skill. I’m still bullish on Phillips in what appears to be a draft with a lot of scheme-specific CBs.) (10-27-17): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/2992/Draft-Prospecting-Midseason-Notes
PFF Draft Watch: Week 6 marquee matchups (Buffalo WR Anthony Johnson vs. Western Michigan CB Darius Phillips: At 6-feet-2 and 207 pounds, Johnson has the size advantage over Phillips, and thus far he is putting together an impressive senior season. He has racked up 26 grabs for 436 yards and an average of 16.8 yards per catch. Phillips had a monster performance against Michigan State in Week 2 (he posted an interception and four pass breakups on five throws into his coverage), but has been unable to match that week’s lofty level of play since. In the three games since, he has surrendered nine catches on 12 throws into his coverage with one touchdown allowed and no passes defensed.) (10-6-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-week-6-marquee-matchups
PFF Draft Watch: Cornerback coverage numbers (Darrius Phillips: A seemingly weekly fixture on our Draft Board Risers piece, Phillips has impressed in 2017 since Week 1. Continuing his strong play for the Broncos, Phillips has allowed just 0.43 yards per snap in coverage, having logged 130 coverage snaps, seeing 20 targets, allowing 10 of them to be caught for just a mere 56 yards. Only Duke Dawson of Florida has been targeted 20 or more times and allowed a few yards per snap in coverage (0.41) than Phillips’ 0.43, while the Western Michigan standout has allowed much fewer yards after the catch (14 to 24).) (10-5-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-cornerback-coverage-numbers
7 prospects who boosted stock in 2017 season's first month (3. Darius Phillips, CB, Western Michigan - 2017 stats: 9 tackles (3 for loss, including 1 sack), 2 INTs, 1 fumble forced, 1 fumble recovered, 8 kickoff returns for 349 yards (43.6 average), 2 TDs, 5 punt returns for 103 yards (20.6 average) - No, there's no relationship between this Bronco and Hokies receiver Cam Phillips, who's No. 1 on this list. But they're both making their families proud with their play as seniors. Phillips had interceptions against USC (with three pass breakups) and Michigan State in the team's first two games of the season, giving him 11 for his career. NFL teams are impressed by his special-teams prowess, as well; Phillips is averaging more than 20 yards per punt return and an astounding 43 yards per kickoff return, with two scores in the first four games.) (9-28-17): http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000852787
PFF Draft Watch: Draft Board Risers - Week 3 (Phillips had extremely strong start against the two Power-5 teams on Western Michigan’s schedule – in USC and Michigan State – but actually had his worst game against Idaho in Week 3. Phillips gave up a touchdown in the low red zone against Idaho as he left his man to go after a scrambling quarterback but other than that catch-22 situation he’s been a lockdown force for Western Michigan in 2017. Through three games, Phillips has only allowed five catches on 12 targets for 25 yards and one touchdown. He has also collected two interceptions and broken up four passes. The passer rating when throwing into Phillips coverage is only 37.5 and he has shown his playmaking ability by forcing and recovering a fumble against Michigan State and returning it for a TD. Phillips is also a dangerous return man and has two returns for touchdowns this season and now five on his career. Phillips’ mix of slot coverage ability, ball skills and return ability make him an attractive draft prospect for NFL teams.) (9-19-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-draft-board-risers-week-3
Dane Brugler's Stock Report: Mayfield plants his flag to be the top-rated senior quarterback (Darius Phillips, CB, Western Michigan, rSR. (5-10, 191, 4.52, #4): A schedule that leads off with road games against USC and Michigan State is a tough road, especially for a MAC program like Western Michigan. After hanging tough with the Trojans in the opener, the Broncos traveled to East Lansing this past weekend where they were shutout on offense, but -- thanks to Phillips -- WMU finished with 14 points. Early in the third quarter, Phillips helped string out a run towards the sideline and mid-tackle, ripped the ball out and returned it 67 yards for the first points of the game for the Broncos. Then in the fourth quarter, Phillips fielded a kickoff in his end zone and returned it the length of the field for the touchdown, his second 100-yard kickoff return in as many weeks. If that wasn't enough, he also added an interception and three pass break-ups on defense. A proven playmaker with the ball in his hands, Phillips has 13 career touchdowns: five kickoff returns, four interception returns, one fumble return, one punt return and two receiving scores when he played receiver as a freshman. Although he doesn't have desired NFL size for the position, Phillips' speed, ball instincts and return skills will fuel his draft grade.) (9-13-17): https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl/stock-report-mayfield-plants-his-flag-to-be-the-top-rated-senior-quarterback/ar-AArTtqz
What's been the biggest surprise so far? (Almost Famous - Kiper: CB Darius Phillips, Western Michigan - The Broncos are 0-2, but Phillips has been dynamic. A former receiver who caught 32 passes as a freshman in 2014, Phillips intercepted potential top pick Sam Darnold and returned a kickoff for a touchdown in Week 1. In Week 2 against Michigan State, he had another kickoff return touchdown and interception, and he had a strip-and-score touchdown in the second half. Phillips had all of the Broncos' points. At 5-foot-10, 190 pounds, Phillips has decent size, but it's his playmaking that has stood out. He had three pick-sixes last season, too, and in 2015 he had two picks against Ohio State. So he's not just performing well against lower-level competition. Could the senior be a Day 2 pick? Let's see how he fares at the combine. He has been impressive.) (9-12-17): http://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/20662081/mel-kiper-todd-mcshay-debate-college-football-biggest-surprise-week-2
WMU's Darius Phillips shines on defense, special teams vs. USC (9-4-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/04/wmus-darius-phillips-shines-on-defense-special-teams-vs-usc/
PFF Draft Watch: WMU CB Darius Phillips handles USC (9-4-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-wmu-cb-darius-phillips-handles-usc
CB Malik Reaves:
Scouting Reports:
Villanova Bio: http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/malik_reaves_905642.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/malik-reaves?id=2559998
Articles:
Villanova DB Malik Reaves' versatile skill set is ideal for NFL (2-26-18): https://theeagleswire.usatoday.com/2018/02/26/villanova-db-malik-reaves-versatile-skill-set-is-ideal-for-nfl/
PFW NFL Draft newsletter sample: Q and A with Villanova CB Malik Reaves (2-21-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/02/18/pfw-nfl-draft-newsletter-sample-q-and-a-with-villanova-cb-malik-reaves/acdh1s4/
2018
East-West Shrine Game: Wednesday's West Team Practice Report (Villanova
cornerback Malik Reaves has really struggled this week, but he made a
great play Wednesday. He made an impressive diving interception in the
team scrimmage. Team sources have said that Reaves is getting undrafted
free agent grades.) (1-17-18): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2018practice6.php
Shrine
Practice -- Tuesday PM Report (Cornerback Dane Cruikshank of Arizona
has had his moments on the field but has also shown a bit of
inconsistency. He’s a long corner who measures over six feet tall, and
I’m told he’ll run in the 4.3s during workouts. He made several
brilliant plays today but also had a few moments where scouts were left
scratching their heads. I’m hearing that he’s pegged for the middle
rounds, and if he pulls it together Cruikshank could develop into a
starter at the next level. I’m going to say the same thing about
another cornerback, Malik Reaves of Villanova, though to a lesser
degree. Reeves is well-built and tough and shows flashes, but all too
often he’s just a half-second late to the play.) (1-16-18): http://draftanalyst.com/shrine-practice-tuesday-pm-reportFootball wraps up 5-6 season with 28-7 win over Delaware (One of the key defensive players all year for the Wildcats, defensive back Malik Reaves, was selected to the CAA All Conference Second team. He had two interceptions in 2017, including one that sealed the victory against Delaware. The Jacksonville, FL native ranked fourth on the Wildcats with 58 total tackles, along with two pass break-ups and a forced fumble.) (11-20-18): http://www.villanovan.com/sports/football-wraps-up---season-with---win/article_e27c47b0-d54e-11e7-a320-af0605a01b1c.html
Amos’s 99-yard fumble return helps Villanova blow out Maine (Hunter, Malik Reaves, Trey Johnson and Rasaan Stewart picked off passes for Villanova.) (10-7-17): http://www.delcotimes.com/sports/20171007/amoss-99-yard-fumble-return-helps-villanova-blow-out-maine
Amos’ long return part of another outstanding D-day for Villanova (“They kept telling me, ‘Next play, next play, we’re going to get it,’” Amos said. Reaves and Stewart were right. Several plays later, Amos scooped up a fumble that Reaves forced and raced 99 yards for a momentum-changing touchdown in the Wildcats’ 31-0 romp over Maine at Villanova Stadium.) (10-6-18): http://www.delcotimes.com/sports/20171007/amos-long-return-part-of-another-outstanding-d-day-for-villanova
Bednarczyk goes down, but Villanova beats Towson (Malik Reaves had 11 tackles, including 10 solo stops, and forced the two fumbles that led to a pair of touchdown runs by backup quarterback Jack Schetelich that sealed the victory in the fourth quarter.) (10-1-17): http://www.delcotimes.com/sports/20170930/bednarczyk-goes-down-but-villanova-beats-towson
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