STRENGTHS
Damontae is a tough, smart, technically sound corner back. He has good, size and speed and agility to play his position at a very high level for the team that selects him. He shows the good hands to intercept the ball and to be an asset on special teams returning punts and kicks. He’s smart and has the cover skills to be used in zone coverage as well as single coverage. He comes up quickly to support the run and can get off blocks quickly. Damontae is a talented football player and shows some leadership skills through his play on the field.

CONCERNS
Damontae hasn’t been up against the top competition but that’s just a reason for some teams to down grade him. The truth is his workout combine numbers are on par with the top corners in this draft. He is not as big as some of the corners in the class and that will be another reason for some teams to down grade him but the truth is that he’s as big as the average of corners in the NFL. Damontae has to improve on his tackling techniques. He is a… “Throw the shoulder without wrapping up”, tackler right now looking for the big hit. He has to learn that making the big hit will likely put him on the injury report but making the sure tackle will keep him in the game so that he can impact.

BOTTOM LINE
Damontae does have some adjustment to do learning receivers etc, but I have no doubt given the time he will become a complete cornerback with the ability to play inside or outside because he is a willing tackler. He will have to improve his tackling to keep himself healthy. If Damontae can add some bulk he just might wind up being a hell of a safety in the future because the kid is a natural ball hawk with excellent football instincts and is quick to the play. Damontae has the leadership skills to run your defense and the intelligence and work ethic. He can play the corner or the slot and like I said maybe work in the future at one of the safety positions. That’s value and value is a big part of selecting players for you team in the draft.

Drew Boylhart  MAR.2017