Corn Elder, CB, Miami
Bio
Elder enjoyed a break-out season as a junior for Miami in 2015. Despite starting just seven-of-13 games, Elder finished tied for fifth in the ACC with 12 passes defended.
A four-star athlete, known for his speed and elusiveness, Elder scored the game-winning kickoff return touchdown after a series of eight laterals in the closing seconds of last year win over Duke.
My pre-season thoughts
Listed at just 5'10 and 180 pounds, with just eight career starts, Elder needs to make his senior season count, but he is quick-twitched and athletic enough to make an NFL team, likely as a late-round pick.
The 2016 Film Update
Elder looks like he is taking the next step. Against Florida State, Elder led the team with six tackles, and allowed just one completion on his two targets for ten yards. He was sticky all game, including an impressive diving pass break-up. Additionally, Elder chased down Florida State running back Dalvin Cook 54 yards downfield and prevented him from scoring a touchdown.
Normally, if a corner has a lot of tackles, that means he surrendered a lot of catches, and that was the case against North Carolina, as Elder did allow seven receptions on 10 targets. However, he limited the production on those seven receptions to just 27 total yards and he didn’t allow a single reception to go for more than seven yards. Against UNC, Elder led the team with 13 tackles and nine stops, adding a sack on a well-timed blitz.
Against Virginia Tech, Elder shadowed the Hokies' top wideout, Isaiah Ford, holding him to just four catches for 46 yards.
Measurables
At the NFL Combine, Elder measured in just the 13th percentile in weight and 24th in height (vs other NFL cornerbacks). Here is the draft-centric website, mockdraftable's spider graph.
NFL.com Profile
Will be too small to play outside in the pros. Quicker than fast. Lacking a second gear and will give up some separation on intermediate and deep routes. Has issues defending the high throw. Tall receivers can go up and over him.
Conclusion
Corn Elder is not going to be coveted by every team. He is smaller than many teams like, and these size-based limitations do occasionally show up on film. However, his ability to click and close is elite and his quickness should make him an asset far more often than a liability.
In terms of draft position, I think he is a fringe top-100 pick.
What are your thoughts?