Chicago Bears Draft Prospects: Cornerbacks

Nov 21, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Vernon Hargreaves III (1) runs out of the tunnel before the game against the Florida Atlantic Owls at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Vernon Hargreaves III (1) runs out of the tunnel before the game against the Florida Atlantic Owls at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Vernon Hargreaves III (5-foot-11, 200 pounds) — Florida

Hargreaves is considered by many scouts as the top cornerback prospect in this draft. He has good size, speed quickness and athleticism, and is physical. He also has good technique when tackling.

Hargreaves can help a defense in a variety of ways. He can press and play off-man. He is also effective against the run. He will go on the attack, take on and shed blockers well, and get to the ball carrier, usually holding him to short yardage gained. He also has the speed to blitz and get to the quarterback quickly.

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While some scouts ding Hargreaves for being shorter than they like, he plays longer. He has arm length, and his legs are strong, so that helps him in jump-ball situations.

Hargreaves tends to tackle high rather than wrapping the ball carrier up. That can result in some missed tackles. He also has a tendency to take over-aggressive angles, which positions him out of a possible tackle, or he lunges at a runner’s legs and misses.

There are some mocks that have Hargreaves going to the Chicago Bears at eleven. I am not sure about that.

Next: Chicago Bears Draft Prospects: Inside Linebackers

The Miami Dolphins are in dire need at corner. They may make a play for Hargreaves, a Florida native, at eight. Besides, I don’t see the Bears going for a corner in the first round. I think outside linebacker may be their priority in the first round.