Chicago Bears: Sleeper NFL Draft prospects at cornerback

Jamal Peters, Mississippi State

As one of the definite later-round guys in this year’s draft, Jamal Peters possesses a few traits to really like if you’re a Bears fan. First and foremost, at 6-foot-1 and nearly 220 pounds, he’s a tank at the cornerback position. In run support, you’ll typically see him going sideline to sideline in order to stop a variety of run plays. Despite his size, he has solid lateral speed.

The former Mississippi State starter has experience in different coverages, but excels most in zone-heavy schemes. Peters has a little history of injuries, but nothing too serious to warrant being over-worried.

Last year, Peters started nine games and came up with career-highs in tackles (33) and pass breakups (four). The glaring issue I see from Peters is a lack of big-play ability. Over his four years with Mississippi State, Peters only managed to intercept three passes (in 41 games).

Peters is long and strong overall, which is something coaches love at the corner position. At the same time, his footwork can get him beat on occasion. He has to work on his overall body movement when trying to stick with receivers in and out of their breaks. If he struggles at corner early in his pro career, he may be in line for a position change to safety.