Round 2
Xavian Howard – CB – Baylor
Strengths: Ideal size for the position with even some room to grow. Plays physical and doesn’t back down from anyone. Strong in man coverage, usually being lined up on the opponent’s top WR. Great balance and coordination, and is a smooth runner.
Active hands and understands when to go for the breakup rather than the INT. Excellent vision and awareness that allows him to break on passes and anticipate throws and routes. Strong tackler and has the size, strength, and mindset to fight through blockers. Willing participant in run support.
Weaknesses: Can be too hands on at times which will draw some flags at the next level. Doesn’t have elite speed, so can be beaten deep if he doesn’t score on his jam. Quick twitch WRs can get inside on him and create quick separation. Can lose track of the ball in the air, causing him to be out of position to make the best available play.
The Fit: This may call for a bit of luck as Howard is certainly one of the better players in this draft. However, most pundits are putting him right in the range of the Chiefs second-round pick. In my book, that’s a huge steal. Howard’s stock suffered due to injury, otherwise he’d likely be a lock for the first round. Should give the Chiefs another talented body to put into the mix at corner immediately, even if he isn’t ready for a full time starting spot. In a draft that has a number of top end CB prospects, Howard holds his own and definitely deserves to be mentioned with the rest.
Next: More Secondary Help