Meet the Prospects: Waynes, Marshall, Peters among most intriguing defensive backs
Get to know all the top prospects for the 2015 NFL Draft, most of whom will be taking the field at the NFL Scouting Combine on Feb. 17-23 in Indianapolis.
Top Prospects By Position
Quarterbacks
Running Backs
Wide Receivers/Tight Ends
Offensive Tackles
Offensive Guards/Centers
Defensive Tackles
Defensive Ends
Inside Linebackers
Outside Linebackers
Cornerbacks/Safeties
Cornerbacks
Trae Waynes, Michigan State
Height: 6-1
Weight: 182 lbs.
Age: 22
2014 Stats: 3 interceptions, 46 tackles, 1 sack
The presumptive top corner in this year's draft, Waynes has the size and speed to be a worthy first-round pick for a team that's looking for a man or cover 2 corner. Becoming more consistent and better in run support are his only knocks.
Nick Marshall, Auburn
Height: 6-1
Weight: 210 lbs.
Age: 22
2014 Stats: N/A
A move from quarterback to corner may be the talented athlete's only chance at being drafted in the first three rounds. The move will be difficult, but a strong workout, particularly in the 40-yard dash, will help his cause. Marshall's physical gifts may be too good to pass up.
Marcus Peters, Washington
Height: 5-11
Weight: 193 lbs.
Age: 22
2014 Stats: N/A
Behavior issues are the major question mark for Peters, who was kicked off the team at Washington in September. He may be the most instinctive and natural corner in the draft, so his stock could rise higher if teams are comfortable with him.
Jalen Collins, LSU
Height: 6-2
Weight: 198 lbs.
Age: 21
2014 Stats: 38 tackles, 1 interception
Length and speed are Collins' key assets. If he can prove that his technique is at the level of Waynes' or Peters', he could shoot to the top of the cornerback class. He may prove to be the best playmaker on the ball in the group.
Safeties
Landon Collins, Alabama
Height: 6-0
Weight: 212 lbs.
Age: 22
2014 Stats: 87 tackles, 3 interceptions
The consensus top safety and the only one projected to be taken in the first round, Collins is a prototypical Alabama safety. He's built well for durability, but has the cover skills to excel at the NFL level. He's got the physicality and all the necessary intangibles.
Ibraheim Campbell, Northwestern
Height: 5-11
Weight: 205 lbs.
Age: 22
2014 Stats: 54 tackles, 3 interceptions
A great showing at the Senior Bowl propelled Campbell up a lot of draft boards. If he can duplicate that performance at the combine, he could be the second safety selected. Injuries marred his 2014 season, so staying healthy will be imperative leading up to the draft.