Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Marcus Roberson Scouting Report: NFL Outlook for Florida CB

Marcus Roberson, CB, Florida (HT: 6’0”; WT: 178 lbs)

Positives

Played in multiple positions while at Florida, including boundary and slot corner. That versatility will be valued by every coaching staff.
Good height, with room to add more muscle to his frame. An NFL weight training program should be able to accomplish this easily.
Enough quickness to run with slot receivers on quick outs or drag routes underneath.
Good press technique, showing active hands and ability to direct the wide receiver toward the safety inside or outside sideline. His initial punch isn't ideal, but that's the most coachable aspect of press coverage.
Aggressive and strong in run defense, totaling 43 solo tackles in a scheme that has corners on an island.
Crashes the edge well with discipline, then squares the ball-carrier up, finishing the play with force and good tackling form.
Excellent motor on every play, even chasing ball-carriers from behind when they're within 10 yards.
Very good results in Cover 2 defensive coverages, with a burn percentage of only 16 percent for his 2013 season.

Negatives

Lacks elite athletic traits but doesn't compensate for this with above-average instincts or anticipation.
Has stiff hips that result in wasted steps when transitioning from backpedal; evident when covering comebacks.
Burn percentage of 35 percent in man for his 2013 season, which is well-below where a top-notch prospect should be at.
Weak at the point of contest, especially against bigger receivers. More strength should help him hold up when the receiver is "boxing out."
Aggressiveness in coverage isn't as high as one would hope. Will need to attack the ball and have the mindset that the ball belongs to him if ceiling is to be reached.
Poor ball skills; doesn’t locate the football quickly enough to make a play on the ball. Natural anticipation and recognition is lacking.
Cannot recover if he loses in press coverage at the line due to top-end speed and heavier feet, which is a deterrent despite being a good press corner.
Lack of explosiveness limits ceiling, specifically short-area burst. The ability to close within just a few milliseconds is extremely valuable, and Roberson doesn't have that.
Dealt with injuries throughout career, missing time in 11 games. He wasn't overly reckless, but his slight build could've been a reason for so many injuries.

Collegiate Statistics
Year Team Tackles PD INT
2011 Florida 22 3 1
2012 Florida 23 14 2
2013 Florida 11 3 0

Personal Notes

Only started four games in 2013 due to injuries, and played in seven games total.
Was named All-SEC Second Team in 2012 by the Associated Press.
Former 4-star recruit and No. 2 cornerback as a high school recruit, via Rivals.


Ratings Chart

Overall

Roberson’s lack of explosiveness and top-end speed could limit him to a nickelback or fourth corner on the roster in his first season. He will need to excel with technique, which is solid but not yet at a level that will allow him to lock down receivers. Coaches will love his aggressive mindset and confidence in run support. If he can stay healthy and refine his technique, he should stick in the league as a spot starter or third cornerback.

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