2022 NFL Draft: KC Chiefs can find solid corners in middle rounds

Tariq Woolen – University of Texas at San Antonio

• 6-foot-4
• 205 pounds
• 33.5″ arms
• 4.26 forty
• 7.10 three cone

If the Chiefs (or any other NFL team) like the idea of a 6-foot-4 corner with long arms and absolutely blazing speed then Tariq Woolen of UTSA may be too tempting to resist. You simply don’t usually find corners with that physical profile. That is why of the four corners on my list, Woolen is the most likely to not make it to the third round. The tough thing to decide about Woolen is if his drool-inducing physical traits are worth taking early despite how raw he is at the position. Woolen was originally a wide receiver and has only been playing defense for a couple of seasons. He has shown good growth during that time, but he’s far from ready to start in the NFL right now.

Woolen may have the highest upside of any cornerback in this draft class, but you’re banking entirely on potential, not proven production. The Chiefs were willing to do that with guys like Ward and Sneed, but the cost to acquire them was likely less than it will take to draft Woolen. Still, if the Chiefs could design their ideal outside corner in a lab, he would probably look just like Woolen. He has electric straight-line speed, elite height, and long arms. He isn’t as physical of a tackler as you’d like for his size, but if KC thinks they can get him to maximize his potential he’d be a home run pick in the third round and I’d even be fine if they took a gamble on him at pick 62. They would just need a veteran starter on the roster to man the position this year while they try to get Woolen up to speed.

Don’t Just Take My Word For It:

This quote from Dane Brugler’s (of the Athletic) draft guide sums Tariq Woolen up well:

"Woolen will require time to develop his technique and recognition both in coverage and run support, but he has a rare package of traits worth betting on with his height, length and speed. He is an appealing draft-and-develop prospect."

You can see a little of Woolen in action for yourself in the tweet below. If you like what you see there you can click the links below to watch even more.

Check out more of Woolen’s highlights HERE.

You can see his game vs Illinois (look for #3) HERE.

Woolen isn’t the only athletic specimen from a small school that may be of interest to the Chiefs.