Monday, January 29, 2024

2024 NFL Draft Prospect CB Nate Wiggins

CB Nate Wiggins:

Scouting Reports:







Highlights:


Articles:

2024 NFL Draft Preview: Answering 15 questions about top prospects using PFF's database (HOW MANY CORNERBACKS IN NATE WIGGINS’ WEIGHT RANGE HAVE HAD PROLONGED STARTER STRETCHES IN THE NFL SINCE 2010? Wiggins has outlier speed (4.28-second 40-yard dash), but that result came with outlier size at 6-foot-1 (89th percentile) and 173 pounds (5th percentile). Dating back to 2006, just three defenders have logged at least 1,000 snaps at outside cornerback while being listed at 6-foot or taller and 180 pounds or lighter — Levi Wallace, Alan Ball and Ken Crawley. It is worth noting that Wiggins bumped up to 182 pounds for his pro day and could ultimately be officially listed above 180 pounds in the NFL.) (4-25-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-preview-answering-15-questions-about-top-prospects

2024 NFL Draft Cornerbacks Rankings and Analysis (4 - Nate Wiggins, Clemson:  Wiggins (6’013/173) was a highly sought after recruit who enrolled early and earned 128 reps as a freshman while showing a glimpse of things to come by holding opponents to just one reception on seven targets. Sophomore year he assumed a starting role and proceeded to lead Clemson with 14 PBU to go with a 98-yard pick-six and 79th percentile PFF cover grade.  Wiggins was ready to assume CB1 shutdown corner this year, and did so in impressive fashion. His 44% completion rate with a 44.4 NFL passer rating in 2023 was a noticeable improvement over his 51% comp rate and 74.8 NFLPR from his 2022 campaign. He also slashed his yards per catch allowed from 12.4-to-9.8 while drawing just one coverage penalty and allowing one reception of 20+ yards all season.  Wiggins dazzled at the Combine by running a sensational 4.28s 40-yard dash that ranked in the 99.8th percentile and was the second-fastest 40-time from the 2024 class. He posted a 36” vertical (67th%) and 10’07” broad jump (88th%), but didn’t perform any agility drills or bench for a somewhat incomplete 9.44 RAS. Also of note is his pro day weigh-in of 182 was nine pounds heavier than the 173 pounds he weighed in Indianapolis. Wiggins shows an iron will to compete, combined with elite jets to carry receivers down the field in lockstep. Him chasing down Omarion Hampton from 50-yards away to create a goalline fumble saving a touchdown was one of the signature plays of last season. Though speed is his calling card, he also manages to snuff out many of the short-to-intermediate routes he faces and displays brash confidence when breaking on the ball. The knocks on Wiggins mostly stem from his ability to muscle up to NFL-sized wideouts and in run support, but there are few naysayers when it comes to his coverage acumen.) (4-24-24):  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-cornerbacks-rankings-and-analysis

2024 NFL Draft insider notes: Inside Raiders' Jayden Daniels chase, Chargers' plans at #5 and Chiefs' strategy at #32 (2024 NFL Draft: Concerns emerge over Nate Wiggins.  On Sunday, I mentioned the status of Kool-Aid McKinstry, who is expected to be 100% for camp this summer after being diagnosed with a Jones fracture at the combine. The short-term status of Nate Wiggins of Clemson, who’ll battle McKinstry to be the third cornerback selected, is fine, yet many doubt he has staying power in the NFL.Wiggins’ slender build, instincts and ability to make plays with his back to the ball have all come under question. Several people tell me they believe Wiggins is a one-contract player who won’t make it at the next level.I don’t necessarily agree with that opinion, but more than one team believes this.) (4-23-24):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-2024-nfl-draft-insider-notes-inside-raiders-jayden-daniels-chase-chargers-plans-5-chiefs-strategy-32

6 NFL Draft prospects who may not be live up to the hype, from Ladd McConkey to Michael Penix Jr. (4. CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson:  Wiggins was a star at Clemson. He had 13 passes defensed in 2022, then effectively got quarterbacks to stop throwing his way in 2023 (20 fewer targets but a passer rating of just 44.4 allowed on those 41 throws). He’s a boundary cornerback with elite speed — a 4.28-second 40 at the combine! — and a solid college resume.  So why is he a risk? Because his 173 pound frame at 6-foot-1 would make him one of the skinniest players in the NFL. The Washington Commanders took a similar risk on a productive blue chip player with a similar build last April when they drafted Emmanuel Forbes 16th overall. He got to the NFL and gave up a 103.0 passer rating and missed more than 15 percent of his tackles, per Pro Football Reference, as a rookie as part of one of the league’s worst defenses.  It’s obviously difficult to make a one-to-one comparison between these players, but it’s been enough to slide Wiggins down draft boards this spring. A secondary needy team will happily snap him up in the late first or early second round. He could be a massive bargain — or he could struggle to bring his slight frame to cover a new bigger, stronger and faster class of wideouts.) (4-23-24):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-prospects-2024-overrated-red-flags-busts-michael-penix-ladd-mcconkey

Surprise top-10 selections, trades, other draft topics (8. Which prospect could fall out of the first round?
Wilson: CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson. "Nate Wiggins could be a victim of circumstance. He's as close to a shutdown corner as you're going to get in today's NFL. And while he's long, his slight build may concern some teams, especially after Emmanuel Forbes, the Commanders first-round pick a year ago who played at 166 in college, struggled through his rookie campaign.") (4-22-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-biggest-questions-veteran-trades-surprise-top-10-picks-and-answers-to-other-pressing-topics/

Caputo: Lions NEED to draft a high-end cornerback (A team will draft Nate Wiggins (Clemson) high because of his sizzling speed, but he is just 173 pounds, an understated concern.) (4-21-24):   https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/caputo-lions-need-to-draft-a-high-end-cornerback

NFL draft: Top defensive players on the board (Nate Wiggins-x, 6-1, 173, Clemson - Scouting report: Long and very fast, but also thin and not much of a presence against the run.  Fact: Despite missing some time with injuries the past two years, had 25 passes defended in 23 games.  Gone by: Early second round.) (4-17-24):  https://apnews.com/article/nfl-draft-2024-top-defensive-players-e8a6bc15052d112c5491c8525b6f0f64

2024 NFL Draft: The top-10 cornerback prospects if everyone in college football was eligible (9. NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON, 2024:  Wiggins has elite athleticism at 6-foot-1, running a 4.28-second 40-yard dash. He only surrendered a 44.4 passer rating into his coverage this past season, which was a top-15 mark among Power Five corners. Wiggins needs to get stronger (173 pounds), but he has the tools and competitiveness to be a long-term starting cornerback.) (4-15-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-the-top-10-cornerback-prospects-if-everyone-in-college-football-was-eligible

NFL Draft: Position-by-position scouting report of early entries (Tier 1 - Nate Wiggins (Clemson)
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 173 pounds.  Accolades/notable statistics: 2023 First Team All-ACC, 19 passes defended in past 2 seasons (T-3rd-most in ACC).  Pro comp: Cleveland Browns CB Greg Newsome.  "Unique size, speed and athletic ability for the position, 6-1 cornerback that ran 4.28 40-yard dash," Spielman said. "Very athletic to play man and zone. Fluid hips and you can see the burst when he changes direction. Good enough ball skills to make plays with ball in the air. You see the speed when he chases down from behind. He gives effort and doesn't quit on plays. Touchdown-saving tackle in the UNC game. He does need to be more consistent as a tackler. Not afraid but most of his misses are do to lack of strength. He can fit in any scheme but teams that covet press cornerbacks that can lock down a wide receiver will have him on top of their boards."   Highest he could get drafted: 14th overall pick.  Lowest he could get drafted: 23rd overall pick.  Final Thoughts:  Wiggins is the slimmest of the Tier 1 cornerback prospects, but he compensates for the slight frame with SPEED. He ran a 4.28 40-yard dash despite pulling a muscle while running it, meaning he could have ran it even faster at the combine. Wiggins combines that speed with strong agility and body control, most evident when backpedaling and flipping his hips to stick with receivers. If initially beat on a route, his speed can make up the distance in a hurry. Wiggins doesn't bite on double moves, remaining with the wide receiver throughout their route. His work in the run game needs to improve, and he could be better at turning his head around before the ball arrives in coverage.) (12-21-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/nfl-draft-position-by-position-scouting-report-of-early-entries

13 best cornerbacks in 2024 NFL Draft, ranked (3. Nate Wiggins, Clemson:  Wiggins earned one of our first-place votes, but no one else had him higher than three. There are fair reasons why Wiggins is a divisive prospect. The Clemson standout ran a position-best 4.28 at the NFL Combine, a result that was bested only by Xavier Worthy’s record-setting 4.21. Play strength is a concern however after Wiggins weighed 173 pounds, a two-percentile number per MockDraftable, in Indianapolis.) (4-12-24):  https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2024/4/4/24107064/2024-nfl-draft-cb-rankings-cooper-dejean-quinyon-mitchell

2024 NFL Draft: Top 10 CBs don't feature one particular standout, but it's a good class (4. Nate Wiggins, Clemson:  Long and twitchy, Wiggins already has the starter kit for an outstanding NFL cornerback. Wiggins uses his twitchiness to close space on wide receivers, with an understanding of how to use his hands when looking to make a play on the ball. He constantly hinders vertical routes with his ability to stay in-step with wide receivers.  He is merely fine against the run and lacks size to be a difference-maker in that area, which is concerning at the next level as teams will attack any deficiencies that show up, but he has the ability to work well in man or zone without help, with the length to match up with the longer receivers in the NFL. It will be a sliding scale with how teams want to gauge his coverage ability and lack of size.) (4-11-24):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2024-nfl-draft-top-10-cbs-dont-feature-one-particular-standout-but-its-a-good-class-140050340.html

2024 NFL Draft CB rankings: 5 first-round grades among top 10 prospects (2. Nate Wiggins, Clemson — 6-1, 173, Junior.  Overview: Following in the same footsteps as his Westlake HS and Clemson predecessor A.J. Terrell, Wiggins signed with Dabo Swinney and the Tigers amid great fanfare as a four-star recruit. He played mostly as a reserve in 2021 before ascending to All-ACC honors each of the past two seasons and making the early leap to the NFL, leaving Clemson with just 60 tackles during that time — but 21 passes broken up and three interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns.  Strengths:  The best pure cover corner of this class, blessed with light feet, greasy knees, loose hips and electric straight-line speed, clocking at 4.28 seconds in the 40-yard dash.  Plays even faster than he clocked, showing a late burst to close to disrupt passes, as well as incredible pursuit speed and effort.  Can explode out of his breaks, attacking downhill and showing impressive hand-eye coordination to snake his arm around receivers to break up "easy" receptions.  Rare height for a cornerback and shows good timing and body control to compete against taller receivers on jump balls.  A natural with the ball in his hands, returning two of his three career interceptions for touchdowns.  Starred when the lights shined brightest, enjoying strong games against top competition.  Concerns:  Has a tall, spindly frame that looks destined for the injury tent — missing two games in 2023 with a lower left-leg injury, as well as a hip flexor injury suffered while running the 40-yard dash at the Combine (neither deemed serious),  A capable open-field tackler but isn't the type to stick his head into the pile, collecting just 11 total assisted tackles in three years at Clemson. By comparison, the aforementioned Arnold had 23 this past season, alone.  A bit reliant on his natural tools and may be forced to endure some "welcome to the NFL" moments by the league's savviest route-runners.  Summary: Teams looking for pure man-to-man cover skills may find themselves enamored with Wiggins' raw talent. His speed and playmaking chops make him a potential All-Pro candidate and one can't help but love the competitiveness he showed in running down not one but two near-certain breakaway touchdowns in 2023 (North Carolina, Miami). He plays with a cover corner's general disdain for run support, as a whole, however, and must show greater tenacity and toughness in this regard to become the more well-rounded defender who earns post-season awards.  Grade: First round) (4-11-24):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2024-nfl-draft-cb-rankings-5-first-round-grades-among-top-10-prospects

5 Players Lions Should Avoid in NFL Draft (Clemson CB Nate Wiggins:  Wiggins ran one of the fastest 40-yard dash times at the Combine this spring, so he really helped himself in that aspect. He'll be able to run with even the fastest pass-catchers at the next level. However, he also weighed in at 173 pounds and is considered light to play on the boundary.  Wiggins will have to hold his own against physical wideouts who have diverse skill sets and the ability to beat him to a deep ball. Unless he's able to add muscle to that frame, he could be in for a struggle early in his NFL career.) (4-9-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/players-lions-should-avoid-nfl-draft

2024 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Cornerbacks (3. CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON - PFF BIG BOARD RANK: 14.  Wiggins has the tools of a first-round, high-impact cornerback. His athleticism will never be in question, nor will his competitiveness. Those two characteristics should yield a long-term starting player.) (4-8-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-position-rankings-cornerbacks

2024 NFL Draft preview: 5 cornerbacks that could interest Lions (4. Nate Wiggins, Clemson 6-1, 173. 4.28 40-yard dash. A long and tall cornerback with terrific speed and athletic traits. He's got room to put on muscle, which the NFL game will require of him. His cover skills look effortless, and he has a chance to be a really good starter Day 1. Opposing quarterbacks had a 44.1 passer rating when throwing at Wiggins last season.) (4-2-24):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2024-nfl-draft-preview-5-cornerbacks-lions-mitchell-arnold-dejean

2024 NFL Draft: Top 5 players at each defensive position (3. CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON:  Wiggins has the tools of a first-round, high-impact cornerback. His athleticism will never be in question, nor will his competitiveness. Those two characteristics should yield a long-term starting player.) (3-27-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-top-5-players-at-each-defensive-position

Players To Watch During Clemson’s Pro Day 2024: Will Shipley and Tyler Davis Among Tigers With Most To Gain (Nate Wiggins, CB:  Speaking of buzz, Nate Wiggins turned some heads with a blistering 4.28 time in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine.  He may choose to stand on that time, which leaves him as a player who doesn’t stand to gain a ton from this Pro Day.) (3-14-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/clemson-pro-day-2024/

Top CBs in the 2024 NFL Draft: Ranking Terrion Arnold, Quinyon Mitchell, and Others (4. Nate Wiggins, Clemson:  He missed some time due to injury early in 2023, but Nate Wiggins looked every bit like a Round 1 cornerback in 2023 whenever he was on the field. He logged a pick and 13 pass deflections in 2022, and in 2023, he sustained his ball-hawking ways while also giving general managers teach-tape to ogle over in coverage.  Wiggins is extremely lean and didn’t measure nearly as long as expected at the NFL Combine. But even so, he has all the necessary speed and fluidity to go with sharp coverage instincts in both man and zone, and his vertical athleticism compounds his disruption radius.  Wiggins can key in on QB intent and close early on routes, he can suffocate WRs in man with his foot speed and length, and he’s resolute in pursuit.) (3-8-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-cbs-nfl-draft-2024/

Best-Case Scenarios for Every Team in the 2024 NFL Draft (Detroit Lions -  Best-case scenario for the Lions: Detroit bolsters their secondary with the dynamic Nate Wiggins. Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell loves players who fit his gritty, tough, and competitive culture. Well, Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins fits that exact mold.  He has high football integrity but just so happens to be fused with hyper athleticism — 4.28 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine — on a lengthy 6’2” frame. The Lions need help at the cornerback position and could add another young secondary piece alongside Brian Branch if Wiggins manages to fall to the end of the first round.) (3-7-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/best-case-scenarios-2024-nfl-draft/

2024 NFL Scouting Combine winners and losers by the numbers: Defense (CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON - Outlier stat: 173 pounds.  Wiggins was the second fastest player at the combine, behind only Xavier Worthy. Even more impressive was that he seemed to still be getting faster as he hit the finish line. His speed was very impressive, ranking in the 98th percentile, but his 173-pound weight was also an outlier, ranking in just the first percentile for cornerbacks at the combine since 1999. He’s fast but light, and that’s something NFL teams will have to live with.) (3-6-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-scouting-combine-winners-and-losers-by-the-numbers-defense

2024 NFL Scouting Combine winners and losers by the numbers: Defense (WINNER: QUINYON MITCHELL, TERRION ARNOLD AND NATE WIGGINS - There isn’t a consensus CB1 in the 2024 NFL Draft as of right now. Of the five players who have a legitimate case, three worked out at the NFL Combine: Toledo’s Quinyon Mitchell, Alabama’s Terrion Arnold and Clemson’s Nate Wiggins. All three scored in the 87th percentile or better in Kent Lee Platte’s relative athletic score, which measures how athletic a prospect is compared to past players at that position. Mitchell earned the highest score of the bunch, earning a 9.84/10. He’s had quite easily the best pre-draft process of any cornerback prospect. After dominating at the Senior Bowl, the junior ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash at 6-foot, 195 pounds. That time is in the 95th percentile for corners. Not only is he blazing fast, but he’s also incredibly strong for the position as well. He put up 20 reps on the bench press, which puts him in the 91st percentile for cornerbacks. Mitchell was also in the 75th percentile for his vertical jump (38 inches).  With strong performances at the combine, those three could’ve jumped the following two players on teams’ draft boards.) (3-6-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-scouting-combine-winners-and-losers-by-the-numbers-defense

2024 NFL Draft: Performance grades for the top 20 prospects on PFF's big board (CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON - PFF Grade: 82.5.  Wiggins solidified his standing as one of the premier cornerbacks in this draft class with a blazing 4.28-second 40-yard dash time at the combine in Indianapolis and saw his PFF grade improve every season in college. He earned 74.0-plus PFF coverage grades in both man and zone coverage in 2023.) (3-6-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-performance-grades-for-the-top-20-prospects-on-pffs-big-board

NFL Combine takeaways: Caleb Williams still No. 1, Dallas Turner leads defensive players in 2024 NFL Draft (Wiggins ran a 4.28 40 to prove he has the downfield speed to stay with anyone in coverage, and that will be the big takeaway from his combine vs. how his workout was cut short by a hip injury. Mitchell was right behind him at 4.33. They both possess ample size and technique assets to have shutdown potential.) (3-4-24):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2024-takeaways-caleb-williams-dallas-turner/553d50fd74f877c11b44f6fa

The fastest 40-yard dashes run at the 2024 NFL combine, including Xavier Worthy's record-breaker (2.  CB Nate Wiggins: 4.28 seconds) (3-3-24):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-combine-fastest-40-yard-dash-2024

NFL Combine 2024 winners & losers: Michael Penix, Xavier Worthy among those who impressed (Losers - Nate Wiggins and Tyler Owens:  It may seem strange to list Wiggins as a loser at the NFL Combine given that his 4.28 40-yard dash was one of the fastest at the event, but he suffered an injury during his run that knocked him out of the rest of the event.  Wiggins is competing with Arnold and Mitchell to be the first cornerback selected in the 2024 NFL Draft. Both the Alabama and Toledo products shined in the on-field drills with Wiggins out, so he now has ground to make up in that race.  Wiggins had the potential to blow up the NFL Combine, so he has to be disappointed that he couldn't finish his workout.  The same can be said of Owens, who posted excellent numbers in the jumping drills and was favored to run the fastest 40. The Texas Tech product never got the chance to showcase his speed, as he pulled up with an injury while running the 40-yard dash.  Owens' day was done after that, so the lasting impression he left among most NFL fans will be his strange comments about outer space not being real.) (3-2-24):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2024-winners-losers-michael-penix-xavier-worthy/9a63b978852faf8bad25e722

NFL Combine 2024 risers and fallers: Payton Wilson, Chop Robinson among defensive standouts (Stock Rising - Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson:  Wiggins wins the “Most Mispriced Combine Prop of the Week Award” by running a smoking 4.29s 40-yard dash that beat his asinine 4.55s opening line that our generous friends at Prize Picks tossed out like chum in the water to my faithful readers. Nobody who watched Wiggins flag down UNC RB Omarion Hampton at the 1-yard line could possibly envision an Under play on anything above 4.4, yet here we are. Wiggins’ elite athletic traits are solidified, making him a locked-in top-25 selection and likely higher.) (3-2-24):  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2024-risers-and-fallers-payton-wilson-chop-robinson-among-defensive-standouts

TWENTYMAN: Combine Day 4 observations (Blazing 40: We all knew Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins was going to run a fast 40, but 4.28? It was the fastest time at the Combine so far this year. Unfortunately it came at a cost. Wiggins told NFL Network reporter Stacey Dales he suffered a hip flexor injury during the run but expects to be OK for Clemson's pro day on April 6.) (3-2-24):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-combine-day-4-observations-zinter-wiggins-mitchell

2024 NFL Scouting Combine: Standouts from defensive back and tight end drills (CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON:  Wiggins is also one of the top candidates to be the first corner off the board in April and only furthered his case to be CB1 with a strong showing in Indianapolis. His 4.28-second 40-yard dash is the fastest of any prospect so far this year. Wiggins was also in the 80th percentile for cornerbacks with a 10-foot-7 broad jump. He, unfortunately, suffered a hip flexor strain while running the 40-yard dash, which prematurely ended his workout. Wiggins also came in lighter than expected at 173 pounds, which was already his biggest concern listed in PFF’s 2024 NFL Draft Guide. Even so, he’s an elite athlete who can end up being a top-15 pick.) (3-2-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-scouting-combine-standouts-from-defensive-back-and-tight-end-drills

Nate Wiggins will test the Lions draft scouting priorities (3-2-24):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2024/03/02/nate-wiggins-combine-speed-lions-nfl-draft-scouting-values/

What Lions Can Learn from Day 2 of NFL Combine (Wiggins comes in light, runs blazing 40 - One of the top cornerback prospects in this year's draft is Clemson's Nate Wiggins. Expected to dazzle in the 40-yard dash, given his outstanding athleticism, he lived up to expectations with a blazing 4.28 time to finish as the top performer in the drill.  However he appeared to suffer an injury at the end of his run, as he was helped off the field by medical staff. It was a disappointing end to the day for the defender, who suffered a hip flexor injury, according to reports. He expects to be ready for Clemson's April 6 Pro Day. Another intriguing area for Wiggins is his weight, as he weighed in at just 173 pounds. With that lighter frame, he will face questions about how well he can hold up physically at the NFL level.) (3-2-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/what-lions-learned-day-two-2024-combine

Combine: DB, TE showcase skills during workouts (Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins did not participate in the vertical or broad jumps, but he did run the fastest 40-yard dash of the night at 4.28 seconds. Wiggins suffered a hip flexor injury on his second run, however, and did not return.) (3-1-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-combine-schedule-live-updates-nfl-highlights-40-yard-dash-times-player-measurements-and-more/live/

Combine takeaways: DB grades, standouts (Clemson CB Nate Wiggins: A-.  Wiggins has one of the most unique -- but increasingly trendy -- frames we've seen among top cornerback prospects in years at 6-1 and 173 pounds (!), but he did what one should do at that size by igniting the 40-yard dash with a time of 4.28 seconds. He suffered a hip injury in the process, but that is unequivocally first-round speed from the former Clemson star.) (3-1-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-combine-takeaways-grades-for-top-db-prospects-plus-other-winners-and-losers/

2024 NFL Combine Stock Report – Cornerbacks (Down - Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson:  Nate Wiggins ran the fastest 40 of all the defensive backs with a 4.28, but he injured his groin during the run. Also, Charlie Campbell reported that Nate Wiggins has minor character concerns.) (3-1-24):  https://walterfootball.com/combine2024stockCB.php

NFL Combine measurements: DB winners, losers (DB losers - Nate Wiggins: Wiggins is one of the best cornerback prospects in this year's draft class, and he demonstrated his speed with a 4.28-second 40-yard dash time -- the fastest amongst the cornerbacks. The good news is that he plays at that speed as well.  The news wasn't great for Wiggins after his run, however, as he suffered a hip flexor injury and hobbled off the field. Wiggins should be fine for his Pro Day, per NFL Network, but the injury is something to monitor for one of the top corners.) (3-1-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-combine-results-measurements-db-winners-losers-as-tyler-owens-nate-wiggins-make-waves-in-workouts/

NFL Combine results: 10 standouts from the cornerback group (Nate Wiggins, Clemson (6-foot-1 1⁄2, 173 pounds):  The fastest man at the Combine was, as expected, Wiggins, who ran an official 4.28 40-yard dash. Unfortunately, he suffered a hip flexor on his only run of the day and had to withdraw from the remainder of the events. While the speed is very alluring, there were two things that drew my attention for the wrong reasons. First, while his 40 time was the best of the day, his 10-yard split was 1.59 seconds and was the second worst of the cornerbacks. Now this may be an error on the NFL’s part, but it’s an interesting development that needs to be looked at. Secondly, and even more concerning, is that he weighed just 173 pounds. Now, that won’t keep him from being drafted high, but for a team like the Lions who prefer physical corners, that’s a concerning weight.) (3-1-24):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/3/1/24087858/nfl-combine-results-10-standouts-cornerback-group-2024-draft

What Happened to Nate Wiggins? Will He Run at Clemson’s Pro Day After Injury at Combine? (3-1-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/what-happened-to-nate-wiggins-will-he-run-at-clemson-pro-day-after-injury-at-combine-nfl-2024/

NFL Combine measurements: DB winners, losers (DB losers - Nate Wiggins: Wiggins is one of the best cornerback prospects in this year's draft class, and he demonstrated his speed with a 4.28-second 40-yard dash time -- the fastest amongst the cornerbacks. The good news is that he plays at that speed as well.  The news wasn't great for Wiggins after his run, however, as he suffered a hip flexor injury and hobbled off the field. Wiggins should be fine for his Pro Day, per NFL Network, but the injury is something to monitor for one of the top corners.) (3-1-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-combine-results-measurements-db-winners-losers-as-tyler-owens-nate-wiggins-make-waves-in-workouts/

8 combine takeaways from QB avail, DB/TE drills (1. Wiggins runs blazing 40, suffers injury. Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins set a high bar with a scorching 40-yard dash time, but it came at a cost.  Wiggins ran a 4.28-second 40, setting the pace for this year's defensive back group. However, after his 40-yard run, Wiggins was helped off the field with an injury. He received attention from the medical staff before returning to the field with ice on his right leg, telling NFL Network reporter Stacey Dales he suffered a hip flexor injury but expects to be OK for Clemson's pro day on April 6.  Wiggins also told Dales he wasn't satisfied with his 40 time. Notably, Wiggins recorded the 4.28 in spite of a relatively slow 10-yard split time of 1.59 seconds. He entered the combine as NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks' No. 2 corner in the draft. -- Eric Edholm) (3-1-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2024-nfl-scouting-combine-what-we-learned-during-friday-s-activities-in-indianapolis

Wiggins runs combine-best 4.28 40, suffers injury (3-1-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nate-wiggins-runs-4-28-40-at-nfl-scouting-combine


Nate Wiggins blazes in 40-yard-dash despite 'feeling pop,' suffering injury (3-1-29):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nate-wiggins-40-time-injury-2024-nfl-combine/a1013e1cad7fb11fc663e6e5

NFL combine: CB class is talented without a clear No. 1 — which is good news for plenty of teams (Nate Wiggins, Clemson - If Wiggins is right about his athleticism, then he should be one of the stars of the weekend. He claimed he’s been able to hit a 4.27 40-yard dash, which would instantly make him one of the fastest players in the NFL if that's true.) (2-29-24):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-combine-cb-class-is-talented-without-a-clear-no-1--which-is-good-news-for-plenty-of-teams-014010147.html

NFL Combine Notebook: Look for an Offensive Explosion at Top of Draft (Wiggins can help his case for being the best prospect at his position if he runs 4.27 during the 40-yard dash. He said he posted that blazing time during a recent workout while preparing for the NFL draft.  Arnold, Wiggins and the rest of the defensive backs will hit the field at Lucas Oil Stadium on Friday. ) (2-29-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2024/02/29/scouting-combine-notebook-offense-draft-top-10

Lions have options with talented & deep cornerback draft class (Wiggins has terrific length at 6-foot-2 with smooth skills and speed. He said he ran a 4.27-second 40 in training. But does he fit Detroit from a toughness standpoint?  "I set myself apart (from the other corners here) because I'm a lockdown corner," Wiggins said Thursday. "I'm very fast and I'm a technician. I think I'm the best corner in the draft because I can lock down one side of the field completely and take the receiver out of the game.") (2-29-24):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-have-options-with-talented-deep-cornerback-draft-class

NFL Hot Press: Nate Wiggins Has Minor Character Concerns (2-29-24):  https://walterfootball.com/nfl-hot-press-nate-wiggins-has-minor-character-concerns.php

2024 NFL Draft: 7 things PFF analysts want to see at the NFL Scouting Combine (MAX CHADWICK: WILL A CB1 EMERGE?  There currently isn’t a consensus top cornerback in the 2024 NFL Draft. Players like Cooper DeJean, Nate Wiggins, Quinyon Mitchell, Terrion Arnold and Kool-Aid McKinstry are all vying for that status. While DeJean isn’t working out due to an injury, the others all have a lot to prove in Indianapolis. Wiggins and Mitchell were named to Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks List,” so strong showings should be expected.) (2-29-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-7-things-pff-analysts-want-to-see-nfl-scouting-combine

2024 NFL Scouting Combine: Who will run the fastest 40-yard dash in Indianapolis? Twenty names to know (CB Nate Wiggins:  Like Mitchell, Wiggins is a top prospect and an elite athletic specimen capable of cracking Round 1. He logged pick-sixes in each of the past two seasons, including this 98-yarder against Drake Maye and North Carolina in 2022. But if you really want to see Wiggins fly, check out his amazing chase and forced fumble against the Tar Heels last season. Can Wiggins turn on the afterburners again this week?) (2-28-24) (2-28-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2024-nfl-scouting-combine-who-will-run-the-fastest-40-yard-dash-in-indianapolis-twenty-names-to-know

2024 NFL Combine preview: 10 cornerbacks the Detroit Lions should watch (Nate Wiggins, Clemson (6-foot-2, 185 pounds):  One of the best cover corners in this class because of his speed and acceleration, Wiggins does a nice job of staying in the receiver’s hip pocket and mirroring the route. He wins with his hips, recovery speed, and instincts, but his production on the ball could improve—just four pass breakups and two interceptions in 2023. Wiggins will also need to improve his run defense in order to play in Detroit—which may require adding some weight to his thinner frame—but his coverage skills alone should keep him on Detroit’s board.) (2-27-24):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/2/27/24083694/2024-nfl-combine-preview-10-cornerbacks-prospects-detroit-lions

NFL Combine Cheat Sheet: Answering the 10 Biggest Draft Questions (Who is going to star at the combine? I love this one. From our scouts, we got Texas DT Byron Murphy—“He might run a 4.8 at 305 pounds”—Turner and Benson. Plus everyone said Iowa CB Cooper DeJean would’ve blown everything out if he wasn’t missing the physical testing due to injury.  Then, Muench gave me Worthy, Guyton, Clemson CB Nate Wiggins, North Carolina State ILB Payton Wilson, Penn State edge Chop Robinson, BYU OT Kingsley Suamataia and Michigan edge Jaylan Harrell.) (2-26-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2024/02/26/draft-preview-combine-cheat-sheet-questions

2024 NFL Scouting Combine primer: Players to watch, potential top testers (Of course, with all that speed at receiver, there must be cornerbacks capable of keeping up. Projected first-rounders Nate Wiggins (Clemson) and Kool-Aid McKinstry (Alabama) might leave scorch marks on the Lucas Oil turf when they run on Friday. ) (2-26-24):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2024-nfl-scouting-combine-primer-players-to-watch-potential-top-testers

NFL Draft: Top 5 prospects at each defensive position (Nate Wiggins, Clemson:  Wiggins is the youngest of this group. He is an unfinished product, but should also test well in Indianapolis.) (2-26-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-combine-ranking-the-top-5-nfl-draft-prospects-at-every-defensive-position/

Biggest riser, fastest 40, other NFL Combine storylines (Who needs a huge combine to boost their draft stock?  Edwards: CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson: "Everyone is talking about Alabama's Terrion Arnold and Toledo's Quinyon Mitchell right now, but Wiggins does not turn 21 years old until August and should run sub-4.4 seconds in the 40-yard dash. His play has been inconsistent, but he has an opportunity to re-establish his name among the best cornerbacks eligible for the 2024 NFL Draft.") (2-26-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-combine-burning-questions-what-to-make-of-qbs-biggest-risers-plus-more-storylines-to-watch-in-indy/

15 players who can improve draft stock at NFL Combine (Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson: In Renner's opinion, Wiggins is "the best pure cover guy" and overall cornerback in the draft. Wiggins' size, however, is a question mark for Renner.) (2-25-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-combine-15-prospects-who-can-improve-their-stock-ahead-of-the-draft/

2024 NFL draft: 20 prospects currently with a 1st-round grade (CB Nate Wiggins) (2-21-24):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-caleb-williams-drake-maye-jayden-daniels/

2024 Combine preview: Cornerback (4. Nate Wiggins, Clemson, 6-2, 185:  Teams are going to love the size and cover ability with Wiggins. He's pretty scheme-versatile with his frame and skillset. He'll have to prove to teams he can be more physical in the run game, however.) (2-20-24):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2024-combine-preview-cornerback

Detroit Lions cornerback targets at NFL scouting combine (Nate Wiggins, Clemson - Wiggins is built in a similar mold to McKinstry, with excellent length and leverage in man-to-man coverage. However, the Clemson product appears faster on tape, and could be the fastest player at the position at the combine.   The Lions play plenty of man coverage, so he fits naturally. Yet, he can improve with his physicality and technique as he remains somewhat of a raw athlete. Still, his athletic potential is exciting and he has the tools of a shutdown corner at the next level. ) (2-19-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-nfl-combine-targets-cornerbacks

Lions 2024 Draft prospect of the day: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson (2-19-24):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2024/02/18/lions-2024-draft-prospect-profile-nate-wiggins-scouting-report/

Who is the Detroit Lions next Cornerback? (2. Nate Wiggins (Clemson):  The four-star, 6’2, and 185-pound corner out of Clemson has also possibly been projected to land in the Detroit Lions’ hands. Wiggins totaled 28 tackles, including 22 solo tackles, six assists, and two forced fumbles during his 2023 season. Wiggins’s patience proved a considerable selling factor, allowing him to stay composed in press coverage. His awareness within zone coverage is also a huge plus, allowing him to read the quarterback’s eyes and jump routes.  Yet, Wiggins has proven to be lazy occasionally, playing with high pad levels, often leading him to break or transition slowly during the play. Wiggins does not possess the same eagerness as other potential cornerbacks when it comes to being physical, as he rarely commits when blocking or tackling.) (2-9-24):  https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/who_is_the_detroit_lions_next_cornerback/s1_17213_39941101

10 preliminary candidates to be the Lions top NFL draft pick at No. 29 overall (Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson:  Wiggins definitely looks the part of a starting NFL outside cornerback. He’s 6-foot-2 and strong for his 185 pounds. He’s got experience playing press-man but also some Cover-3 and other zone schemes the Lions like to use. Wiggins can also blitz from the outside and shows outstanding closing burst to the point of attack.  His Clemson game tape was inconsistent, and that makes him a tough draft range projection. The good tape absolutely fits what the Lions want in an outside corner. However, Wiggins has some ugly tackling efforts in run defense and occasional “frozen pizza” moments in coverage that might not make him appeal to Detroit. The talent and tools are there for the Lions to work with at No. 29, if they so choose. And they might…) (2-8-24):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-draft-10-candidates-to-be-first-round-pick-scouting-profiles/

2024 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Cornerbacks (2. CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON - BIG BOARD RANK: 13.  Wiggins has legit ball skills and shutdown athletic abilities. He needs to be more consistent in run defense and with the overall strength parts of his game, but he might be at the top of the list of corners you'd want to tell, “Go make sure that receiver doesn't catch the ball.”) (1-16-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-position-rankings-cornerbacks

One Tiger Rises on Kiper's Updated Big Board for 2024 Draft (1-12-24):  https://theclemsoninsider.com/2024/01/12/one-tiger-rises-on-kipers-updated-big-board-for-2024-draft/

Nate Wiggins NFL Draft projection: 5 Landing Spots for the Clemson CB (#1 Detroit Lions - The Lions are an offensive-minded team. Led by Jared Goff, they are strong on this side of the ball. The same cannot be said when they are playing defense. The Lions’ defensive line is centered around Aidan Hutchinson, and in their final few games, it heavily struggled. The current cornerbacks are lacking in talent. By adding Wiggins to this team, the Lions will be getting support for Hutchinson, someone who is talented enough to make a difference in this position) (1-11-24):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/college-football/news-nate-wiggins-nfl-draft-projection-5-landing-spots-clemson-cb-featuring-detroit-lions

TaxSlayer Gator Bowl NFL Prospect Preview: Will Shipley, Nate Wiggins, and Ray Davis Headline Clemson vs. Kentucky Matchup (Nate Wiggins, CB:  No one should be surprised if Nate Wiggins winds up as the best corner from the 2024 class. The 6’2″, 175-pounder is ultra-competitive, has elite length, and has better ball skills than his raw stats suggest. Watching him compete against Keon Coleman this past season showed off his complete game, including terrific speed, closing ability, instincts, and clean footwork.  His lack of bulk will be a big issue for any defense. He’s a willing but mediocre run defender who’ll get boxed out when giving up 20 pounds in strength. Hopefully, his frame can take at least 10 more pounds of muscle without losing speed.) (12-29-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/taxslayer-gator-bowl-nfl-draft-prospect-preview-2023/

NFL Draft: Position-by-position scouting report of early entries (Nate Wiggins, Clemson: A strong candidate to be the first cornerback selected, the 6-foot-2, 185-pound Wiggins provided lockdown coverage for the Tigers this past season, earning All-ACC honors by allowing just a single touchdown reception. He returned two of his three career interceptions for touchdowns and showed remarkable speed, timing and effort to force two fumbles at the goal line this past season, as well. Grade: first round) (12-21-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/nfl-draft-position-by-position-scouting-report-of-early-entries

2024 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Cornerbacks (2. CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON - BIG BOARD RANK: 14.  Wiggins has legit ball skills and shutdown athletic abilities. He needs to be more consistent in run defense and with the overall strength parts of his game, but he might be at the top of the list of corners you'd want to tell, “Go make sure that receiver doesn't catch the ball.”) (12-20-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-position-rankings-cornerbacks

2024 NFL draft: Bowl season cornerback big board (2. Nate Wiggins, Clemson:   What stands out: Great length and footwork for a taller CB) (12-20-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-bowl-season-cornerback-big-board/

2023 College Football All-ACC Team: North Carolina QB Drake Maye, Clemson CB Nate Wiggins and more (CB: Nate Wiggins, Clemson Tigers) (12-10-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2023-all-acc-team-north-carolina-drake-maye-clemson-nate-wiggins

2024 NFL Draft prospects, risers and sliders after Week 12 of college football: Laiatu Latu, Nate Wiggins and more (#2 Nate Wiggins (Cornerback - Clemson).  The Clemson program has put a lot of talented defensive backs into the NFL, and Wiggins is next in line. After a solid sophomore season, Wiggins has played incredibly well this year, showing improvement almost weekly.  During the Tigers’ victory on Saturday, Wiggins finished with seven tackles, one PBU and an interception against Drake Maye and the North Carolina Tar Heels.  The junior has next-level size at over six feet tall with terrific ball skills, and he presently projects as an early second-round prospect on my board.) (11-22-23):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/college-football/news-2024-nfl-draft-prospects-risers-sliders-week-12-college-football-laiatu-latu-nate-wiggins-and-more

NFL Draft watch: Nate Wiggins makes case for CB1, Vols QB’s stock plummeting (Nate Wiggins | CB | Clemson | PFF big board: No. 2 CB, No. 14 overall - It’s been all but presumed that Alabama’s Kool-Aid McKinstry will be the first cornerback drafted in April. And while he’s had a strong season for the No. 8-ranked Crimson Tide, Wiggins is closing the gap rather quickly. Against then-20th-ranked North Carolina, Wiggins logged seven tackles, a forced fumble, a pass defensed and an interception of projected top-three pick Drake Maye.  Among cornerbacks with 250 or more coverage snaps this season, Wiggins has allowed the seventh-fewest yards after the catch (32), the eighth-lowest passer rating against (39.1) and the 13th-lowest completion percentage (42.4), per Pro Football Focus. His 9.5 yards per reception allowed is lower than McKinstry’s 10.3. It’ll be a tight race that will likely go down to the wire, but it should surprise no one if Wiggins hears his name called before McKinstry next April.) (11-21-23):  https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/nfl_draft_watch_nate_wiggins_makes_case_for_cb1_vols_qbs_stock_plummeting/s1_13132_39568934

2024 NFL Draft: College Football Game Recaps – Week 12 (Wiggins could be the first cornerback selected during the 2024 NFL Draft, and he had a mixed outing against the Tar Heels. Midway through the first half, Wiggins showed his speed and effort by flying down the field to smack the ball out of a running back’s hands for a fumble that turned into a touchback for Clemson’s offense. In the third quarter, Wiggins was tested on a deep ball and got away with a pass interference when Tez Walker had a step on him. On other plays, Wiggins did a nice job of running the route and preventing separation. His fourth-quarter interception ended any hopes of a late Tar Heels comeback. It was a very good play by Wiggins that illustrated his tremendous speed and ball skills.  Overall, this tape won’t hurt or help Wiggins significantly. He is a good athlete who is fast and fluid. He can run the route to prevent separation and has make-up speed. However, Wiggins could stand to get stronger for the NFL. This game demonstrated that Wiggins is more of a mid-to-late first-rounder and is not a top-10 caliber prospect like a Devon Witherspoon, Sauce Gardner, Derek Stingley Jr. or Jaycee Horn.) (11-19-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2024recap_12.php

Week 12 College Football Team of the Week: Brilliant Bo Nix Cements Himself as Heisman Favorite (Cornerback: Nate Wiggins, Clemson.  The definition of lockdown cornerback means taking on the opposing team’s top target and holding him to a limited output. Nate Wiggins did that and more on Saturday when he locked up against Devontez Walker on a handful of targets.  Wiggins got the better of North Carolina and QB Drake Maye, coming away with an impressive interception and multiple plays in coverage. He also recorded seven total tackles on the day as he was everywhere for Clemson.) (11-19-23):  https://collegefootballnetwork.com/week-12-college-football-team-of-the-week-2023/

2024 NFL Draft: College Football Game Recaps – Week 12 (Wiggins could be the first cornerback selected during the 2024 NFL Draft, and he had a mixed outing against the Tar Heels. Midway through the first half, Wiggins showed his speed and effort by flying down the field to smack the ball out of a running back’s hands for a fumble that turned into a touchback for Clemson’s offense. In the third quarter, Wiggins was tested on a deep ball and got away with a pass interference when Tez Walker had a step on him. On other plays, Wiggins did a nice job of running the route and preventing separation. His fourth-quarter interception ended any hopes of a late Tar Heels comeback. It was a very good play by Wiggins that illustrated his tremendous speed and ball skills.  Overall, this tape won’t hurt or help Wiggins significantly. He is a good athlete who is fast and fluid. He can run the route to prevent separation and has make-up speed. However, Wiggins could stand to get stronger for the NFL. This game demonstrated that Wiggins is more of a mid-to-late first-rounder and is not a top-10 caliber prospect like a Devon Witherspoon, Sauce Gardner, Derek Stingley Jr. or Jaycee Horn.) (11-19-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2024recap_12.php

Lions draft: 10 early candidates to be Detroit's 1st-round pick in 2024 (Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson:  Wiggins checks a lot of boxes the Lions want in their outside corners. He’s got a high football IQ, excellent short-area athleticism and closing burst, a good nose for playing the ball in the air, and he’s worked hard to improve his technique. Wiggins could use some bulk on his 6-foot-2, 185-pound frame to help handle run defense duties and bigger receivers, but don’t mistake him for being weak.) (11-18-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-draft-10-early-candidates-to-be-detroits-1st-round-pick-in-2024/
 
Cornerbacks Lions Could Target in 2024 NFL Draft (Nate Wiggins, Clemson:  Wiggins has worked his way to the top of some outlet's draft boards late in the season. His performance in coverage has been nothing short of exceptional, with just nine completions allowed on 23 targets.  At 6-foot-2, Wiggins is a lanky cornerback full of athleticism and range. He's fast enough to run with the burners, and skilled enough to stay on top of any route.   One area where he has not graded out well in is in the run game, a skill that will need to be developed. PFF has him graded out at a 43.6 clip, which is unsatisfactory.  With his abilities in coverage, he's still worth a look. The pre-draft process should tell more about his physicality.) (11-18-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/cornerbacks-lions-could-target-2024-nfl-draft

Clemson football: Five takeaways from Clemson’s stellar win over UNC (Nate Wiggins' incredible effort play was the key to a Clemson win - There’s no way of telling if Clemson would have lost this game if Nate Wiggins hadn’t made this play, but it doesn’t matter because he did, and it was a massive moment in this game. In a situation where North Carolina should have taken a 14-0 lead, Wiggins stepped up and made one of the best effort plays you’ll ever see. Tar Heels running back Omarion Hampton broke off a 64-yard run, with Wiggins running the near length of the field to strip the ball from Hampton right before he could get into the end zone. A game-changing play, Wiggins’s effort was a massive part of this win. How did Wiggins help end the game as well, with a game sealing interception. What a performance from a likely future first round pick.  Oh man, watch the speed from Nate Wiggins to chase down RB Hampton and knock the ball out. Turned a TD into a turnover and Clemson ball.) (11-18-23):  https://clemsonwire.usatoday.com/lists/five-takeaways-from-clemsons-stellar-senior-day-win-over-no-20-north-carolina/

Swinney Explains Why Wiggins Didn't Start vs. Notre Dame (11-5-23):  https://theclemsoninsider.com/2023/11/05/swinney-explains-why-wiggins-didnt-start-vs-notre-dame/

Top CBs in the 2024 NFL Draft: Ranking Kool-Aid McKinstry, Kalen King, and Others (3. Nate Wiggins, Clemson:  He missed some time due to injury earlier in the year. But whenever he’s been on the field, Nate Wiggins has looked every bit like a Round 1 cornerback in 2023. He logged a pick and 13 pass deflections in 2022, and in 2023, he’s sustained his ball-hawking ways while also giving general managers teach-tape to ogle over in coverage.  At 6’2″, 185 pounds, Wiggins is a bit lean and could stand to add more mass to his frame. But at that size, he has all the necessary speed and fluidity to go with sharp coverage instincts in both man and zone. He can key in on QB intent and close early on routes, and he can suffocate WRs in man with his foot speed and length.) (11-2-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-cbs-nfl-draft-2024/

2024 NFL Draft: Prospects the PFF big board is higher on than other boards (CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON - PFF big board rank: 28.  Wiggins was recently elevated into the top 15 of PFF’s big board, and the reason he’s on this list isn’t because people don’t know about him or even because they don’t have him in their top 50s. It’s because we haven’t seen much talk about him as the class' potential CB1. His 2023 tape shows that he could be.  The 6-foot-2, 185-pound outside cornerback is having another very solid year in coverage, earning a 78.9 coverage grade last season and a 78.4 mark this season. But the tape is even more impressive than the numbers. He moves so well for a player of his size, bringing the explosiveness to come downhill in off coverage and fluidity to stay with receivers in press man. Wiggins has forced 17 incompletions over the past two seasons. The only real concern with Wiggins comes from some lack of natural strength at a lower body weight. But even that has improved in the middle parts of this season. ) (10-26-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-prospects-pff-big-board-higher-other-boards

Clemson Football: Tigers CB is the best in the country in coverage (10-20-23):  https://clemsonwire.usatoday.com/2023/10/20/clemson-cornerback-the-best-in-the-country-in-passer-rating-allowed/

Nate Wiggins and Antonio Williams listed as game-time decisions for Clemson ((10-7-23):  https://theclemsoninsider.com/2023/10/07/swinney-gives-latest-injury-update-on-wiggins-williams/

CFB Week 4 2023: Draft Prospects Cameron Ward, Keon Coleman, and Will Shipley Stand Out (Unfortunately, Clemson lost Nate Wiggins to an injury just before overtime, but the 6’2” cornerback performed admirably against one of the best WR tandems in the nation. He notched two pass deflections and largely dissuaded Jordan Travis from testing him in coverage all day.  On one particular rep, he ran stride-for-stride with Johnny Wilson into the deep third, showing off his speed. Wiggins’ injury timeline isn’t known just yet, but regardless, he’s put up enough quality tape to be an early-round pick whenever he declares.) (9-25-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb-week-4-2023-draft-prospects/

Nate Wiggins Injury: What We Know About the Clemson CB’s Status (9-23-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nate-wiggins-injury-what-we-know-about-the-clemson-cbs-status/

NFL Draft Notes: College Football Game Recaps (Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins is an early-round prospect, and he was facing a dangerous passing attack with the Seminoles. Florida State quarterback Jordan Travis is vastly improved and is a dangerous dual-threat weapon. Seminoles wide receiver Keon Coleman had an electric start to the season against LSU, but made zero catches in their near-loss to Boston College last week. Entering the season, there was a lot of hype and excitement for Florida State wide receiver Johnny Wilson. The 6-foot-7, 240-pounder is a giant who possesses surprising athleticism for such a big-bodied skill-position player. Wilson generated some production in the season opener against LSU, but he also had some ugly dropped passes. Wilson bounced back nicely against Boston College, so every prospect was in need of impressive tape entering this rivalry game.) (9-23-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2024recap_04.php

College Football Week 4: 2024 NFL Draft prospects to watch, including Kool-Aid McKinstry (CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON VS. WRS KEON COLEMAN & JOHNNY WILSON, FLORIDA STATE:  Wiggins is another cornerback who is trying to climb up the 2024 big board, perhaps even to the top cornerback spot. He currently has a 72.3 coverage grade with one forced incompletion and one interception. He possesses very good movement skills and ball skills, but he’ll have a tough test against Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson, one of the best, if not the best, wide receiver duos in the country.  Coleman at 6-foot-4 and Wilson at 6-foot-6 present tough tests physically. Coleman has 10 contested catches on 12 contested targets. Meanwhile, Wilson leads the team in threat rate (33.9%). ) (9-23-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-week-4-2024-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-kool-aid-mckinstry-shedeur-sanders

CFB Week 3 2023: Draft Prospects Spencer Rattler, Jer'Zhan Newton, and Malik Nabers Stand Out (Clemson vs. FAU - The entire Clemson defense came to play against Florida Atlantic, but the most impressive play of the day was a 49-yard pick-six notched by cornerback Nate Wiggins. At 6’2”, Wiggins undoubtedly has the length and speed coveted in early-round picks.  Still, his route recognition ability, zone awareness, and lightning-quick reaction to stimulus ultimately help him generate these kinds of game-changing plays. – Ian Cummings) (9-18-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb-week-3-2023-draft-prospects/

NFL Team Needs Tracker: One upcoming free agent, one 2024 NFL Draft prospect for all 32 teams (DETROIT LIONS: CORNERBACK - Projected win total (per PFF Power Rankings): 9.7 (t-8th).  Projected draft position (per Vegas odds): 24th.  Unit grade through Week 1: 59.4 (20th).  Detroit signed veteran free agents Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley this offseason, but Moseley received just a one-year deal and did not play in Week 1 as he continues to recover from an ACL injury sustained in 2022. Unfortunately. he has reportedly suffered a setback in his return to action.  Prospect: Clemson CB Nate Wiggins - Wiggins has the height, at 6-foot-2, that Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn tended to covet when he was the defensive backs coach with the New Orleans Saints, and the Lions have worked more and more zone into their coverages after getting beat in man coverage consistently. Wiggins earned a 78.9 coverage grade in 2022 with 10 pass breakups and a completion percentage allowed of just 50.8%.  Free agent: Los Angeles Chargers CB Michael Davis - Davis had a career year in 2022, earning a 73.5 coverage grade with 12 pass breakups and a completion percentage allowed of just 52%. All three of those marks were career bests. Davis is a big, physical cornerback at 6-foot-2 and 196 pounds and will be 29 years old entering his eighth NFL season in 2024.) (9-12-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-team-needs-tracker-free-agents-2024-nfl-draft-prospects-2023

2024 draft watch: 8 players to watch, including DT Jer’Zhan Newton (Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson (Junior) 6-foot-2, 185 pounds - An excerpt from The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner’s preview of Wiggins ($):  Long, tall and in control of his body pretty much at all times, Wiggins — a standout prep wide receiver — covers a ton of ground with quick feet and terrific arm length. He showed a solid understanding of routes and got better as the year wore on in 2022, and he held up well in man coverage, especially against Drake Maye and North Carolina in the ACC title game. He needs to show more consistency, though, as we should see more pass breakups and forced incompletions from a guy with his tools.  How he’d fit with the Lions:  The Lions heavily invested in their secondary this past offseason but their long-term stability at outside corner is lacking. Jerry Jacobs and Emmanuel Moseley are in contract years, leaving a starting role potentially up for grabs in 2024. Stacking the corner draft board this time of year can be challenging—as the position historically seems to fluctuate throughout the season—but Wiggins is on the short list of corners who have first-round potential.) (9-2-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/9/2/23856203/detroit-lions-2024-draft-watch-8-players-watch-jerzhan-newton-chop-robinson-jared-verse-nate-wiggins

2024 draft watch: 8 players to watch, including DT Jer’Zhan Newton (Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson (Junior) 6-foot-2, 185 pounds.  An excerpt from The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner’s preview of Wiggins ($):  Long, tall and in control of his body pretty much at all times, Wiggins — a standout prep wide receiver — covers a ton of ground with quick feet and terrific arm length. He showed a solid understanding of routes and got better as the year wore on in 2022, and he held up well in man coverage, especially against Drake Maye and North Carolina in the ACC title game. He needs to show more consistency, though, as we should see more pass breakups and forced incompletions from a guy with his tools.  How he’d fit with the Lions:  The Lions heavily invested in their secondary this past offseason but their long-term stability at outside corner is lacking. Jerry Jacobs and Emmanuel Moseley are in contract years, leaving a starting role potentially up for grabs in 2024. Stacking the corner draft board this time of year can be challenging—as the position historically seems to fluctuate throughout the season—but Wiggins is on the short list of corners who have first-round potential.) (9-2-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/9/2/23856203/detroit-lions-2024-draft-watch-8-players-watch-jerzhan-newton-chop-robinson-jared-verse-nate-wiggins

College Football Week 1: 2024 NFL Draft prospects to watch, including Drake Maye, Spencer Rattler and Joe Milton III (CB NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON - Week 1 Opponent: Duke.  Wiggins has first-round potential. He played both wide receiver and defensive back in high school, and at 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, he moves so well. Wiggins already recorded a decent coverage grade in 2022 (78.6). But what we really want to see in 2023 is for him to capitalize on good coverage with takeaways. He recorded 10 forced incompletions and one interception last season but also dropped three interceptions. For as big and long as he is, he also played only 80 of his 421 snaps in press coverage. He’s going up against the aforementioned Riley Leonard, so a solid performance there will be a good box to check on his scouting report.  ) (9-1-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-week-1-2024-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-drake-maye-spencer-rattler-joe-milton

Early 2024 NFL Draft cornerback rankings: Kool-Aid McKinstry is latest star Alabama DB (6. NATE WIGGINS, CLEMSON:  Wiggins has the potential to be a high-impact outside cornerback. At 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, he brings a lot of versatility to play both left and right cornerback, as well as zone or man coverage. His experience right now is in off-coverage when he can keep his eyes on the quarterback and bait them into throws (only 80 of his 481 coverage snaps came in press). He moves fluidly and with explosiveness for a taller cornerback, which makes me think he can improve in press if he had the reps. His receiver background gives him good ball skills, as evidenced by his 10 forced incompletions.There is even more left in the tank for Wiggins, though. His raw coverage grade of 78.9 and single coverage grade of 67.8 can both be higher with more consistency, mainly in the strength category (likely has to put on weight for better contention at the catch point and in run support). He also had three dropped interceptions last season, a figure that could have been even higher due to how well he can read the quarterback and play the ball. This is the type of player who can be a turnover machine. ) (8-17-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2024-nfl-draft-cornerback-rankings-kool-aid-mckinstry

ACC preseason superlatives for the 2024 NFL Draft (Best in coverage: CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson.  Wiggins ranked among the top 100 in most coverage categories last season. He has impressive size, speed and burst. A native of Atlanta, Wiggins is willing to fly downhill, provide support in the flat and is physical at the line of scrimmage. Although he is clingy in coverage, the third-year player needs to do a better job of getting his eyes back to the ball. He has just one interception through two collegiate seasons. Talent evaluators will want to see that he is capable of turning the ball over to cement himself as a top prospect at his position.) (8-9-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/acc-preseason-superlatives-for-2024-nfl-draft-drake-maye-top-qb-florida-state-well-represented-and-more/

Clemson Tigers Preview: Roster, Prospects, Schedule, and More (Nate Wiggins, CB:  Nate Wiggins enters the NFL Draft conversation as one of the most productive returning cornerbacks, with a pick and 13 pass deflections on his 2022 production report. At 6’2″, 185 pounds, Wiggins is visibly lean, and his height also impacts his technique at times.  Wiggins still has room to play lower in his stance more consistently, as well as tighten his pedal. But he’s an instinctive playmaker with great ball skills and reaction speed.) (8-1-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/clemson-tigers-preview-2024/

Posted by LionsFan at 8:42 AM

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