Name: Caleb Farley
Position: Cornerback
College: Virginia Tech
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 197 lbs (pro day)
Overall Rank: No. 20 overall
Position Rank: CB3
Strengths: A ballhawk with the speed to thrive in man coverage, Farley has it all from an athletic standpoint. He’s an easy-mover with great lower body twitch that allows him to run with top receivers but also adjust to breaking routes with great balance and short-area quickness. Farley lives near the ball and had four interceptions in 2019. A gambler, Farley baits quarterbacks into mistakes with his off coverage and then closes on the ball with blurring speed and great use of his length. A former high school quarterback, Farley is new to the cornerback position but in a short time became one of the best in college football. He requires some additional development, but his potential is amazing. Farley is tailor made for press coverage and has the confidence and traits to thrive in man coverage.
Weaknesses: Farley opted out of the 2020 season citing Covid concerns, which leaves him with limited starter tape at Virginia Tech. He’s also battled a knee injury and undergone two back surgeries. Farley’s lack of experience and reps could mean a longer development to the NFL, especially if drafted into a complex scheme that requires more patience to learn.
What I Love: Farley’s traits are the best of any cornerback in the 2021 class. There are legitimate concerns about experience and injuries, but his athletic potential is through the roof good.
NFL Comparison: Marlon Humphrey
Grade: 90/100
Position Specific Traits:
(key: +, ++, +++ positive scale | -, - -, - - - negative scale)
Athletic Ability: +++
Man Coverage: ++
Run Support: +
Speed: +++
Strength: +
Zone Coverage: ++
Part of me hopes that he is my Cardinal's pick at 16, but another part of me worries about the injuries and overall lack of experience...