Asante Samuel Jr. 2021 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Name: Asante Samuel, Jr.
Position: Cornerback
College: Florida State
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 180 lbs (pro day)

Overall Rank: No. 57 overall
Position Rank: CB7

Strengths: The son of a former star cornerback, Asante Samuel Jr. has NFL pedigree. He’s a quick, tough, instinctive cornerback prospect himself and has the timing and hands to make life hell on receivers. Samuel has click-and-close technique and finds the ball quickly. He’s a fast processor with good enough quickness to work through transitions and the toughness to challenge receivers at the catch point. He’s at his best working against intermediate routes where he can plant and run toward the ball. He’s physical enough to be an asset in the run game from his position as a slot cornerback. Samuel has the quickness to be most comfortable in a zone scheme but the play strength to be effective from the slot in man coverage.

Weaknesses: A lack of size and strength are notable issues for Samuel, especially if viewed as an outside cornerback prospect. He allowed too many receivers free passes on underneath routes as he was hesitant to close on them. He has to speed up his process and trust his eyes to drive on the ball better in zone coverage. He doesn’t have the speed to run in phase down the field and will be viewed as a zone only cornerback for some teams. While the name appeal and pedigree are there, Samuel’s play hasn’t warranted the Round 1 hype he’s receiving.

What I Love: Small cornerbacks who aren’t afraid to come through the receiver and fight for the ball or rock a running back in the open field will always have a place in my heart. Samuel is feisty and aggressive.

NFL Comparison: Desmond King

Grade: 80/100

Position Specific Traits:

(key: +, ++, +++ positive scale | -, - -, - - - negative scale)

Athletic Ability: +

Man Coverage: -

Run Support: +++

Speed: +

Strength: ++

Zone Coverage: ++