2016 NFL Draft: PFF ranks corners

Coming into the 2016 NFL Draft, Pro Football Focus ranked the cornerbacks.

We all know that the Kansas City Chiefs are going to be looking long and hard at a cornerback both on the first day of the NFL Draft and well into the undrafted free-agents. With only Marcus Peters as a viable starting options should Phillip Gaines be hurt once more, the Chiefs have to shore up that area.

Over at Pro Football Focus, Sam Monson went through a ton of game film and listed out the 25 corners in order from best to worst. Monson named Jalen Ramsey the best of the bunch, while going with William Jackson III, Vernon Hargreaves III, Mackensie Alexander and Eli Apple to round out the top five.

Also of note, Monson placed Baylor’s Xavien Howard ninth on his list. The Chiefs had a large contingent at the Baylor Pro Day, presumably to see both Howard and wide receiver Corey Coleman. Coleman is seen universally as a first-round pick while Howard is looked upon as a second or third-round selection.

Monson believes five corners are worthy of being taken in the first round, which bodes well for Kansas City. The Chiefs are picking 28th-overall but should be able to land one of the top five guys. Most believe Ramsey and Hargreaves will be off the board in the top 10. At this juncture, it would be shocking if Jackson made it into the 20s. However, Apple and Mackensie could absolutely be on the board with the Chiefs on the clock.

Frankly, I’d be thrilled with any of the top five guys. Alexander worries me in run support (plays very soft in that aspect) but he reminds me of Dale Carter in coverage. Apple is a bit less athletic than Alexander but more physical, so I can see his appeal as well. It will be fascinating to see what happens when the Chiefs have to turn in their card.