Falcons select CB Clark Phillips III in 4th round

The Atlanta Falcons selected Utah cornerback Clark Phillips III in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 113th overall.

Phillips had six interceptions in 2023, which led the Pac-12. He started every game for the Utes over the last two seasons. The 21-year-old will have a chance to compete for a starting job in training camp following the departure of Casey Hayward.

Pre-draft profile

Phillips finished his career at Utah with nine interceptions, including six last year. He also scored four touchdowns on those nine picks, with a pair coming in 2022. That kind of ball production will get the attention of NFL teams, even if Phillips is undersized. Part of what made him such an effective ballhawk is his aggressive mentality, but another key is his ability to keep eyes on the quarterback while dropping into zone and understanding what the offense is trying to do. Those skills can translate to the next level, even if the size concerns limit his snap total and where he lines up on most downs. A lack of elite hip fluidity is another thing to consider with Phillips, as it can limit his ability to match up with receivers that threaten him deep.