Greg Newsome II 2021 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Name: Greg Newsome II
Position: Cornerback
College: Northwestern
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 192 lbs (pro day)

Overall Rank: No. 29 overall
Position Rank: CB4

Strengths: A long, athletic, agile cornerback with coverage versatility in his game, Newsome has NFL starter traits no matter the defense you want to run. He’s quick breaking back to the ball and excels in underneath coverage where he uses his change of direction skills and length to punch away at the ball. Newsome grabbed just one interception in 2020 due to a shortened schedule but was a menace on a regular basis. His best trait is his footwork where he moves like a much smaller, more compact athlete but has the length and height to cover top wide receivers on the outside of the formation. Despite limited experience in college, his timing and instincts are top-notch. He profiles as a very early starter.

Weaknesses: Newsome lacks reps and experience after missing the 2019 season due to injury and part of the 2018 season as well. He also suffered a groin injury in the Big Ten Championship Game. Injuries have been a constant for him. On the field he has been very handsy and was too often flagged for it. If drafted into a man coverage scheme, he’ll have to work on learning to shadow rather than re-direct receivers.

What I Love: Newsome played his best in big moments and was a constant pest for Big 10 quarterbacks to deal with. He’s light on experience, but his agility and tenacity are high-level.

NFL Comparison: Josh Norman

Grade: 86/100

Position Specific Traits:

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

Athletic Ability: ++

Man Coverage: ++

Run Support: +

Speed: ++

Strength: ++

Zone Coverage: ++