Stephon Gilmore NFL Draft prospect notes

Stephon Gilmore
6'1, 190 pounds | Cornerback | South Carolina

First word: A high school quarterback and defensive back, Glimore has smoothly transitioned to soley playing defense. Gilmore was one of the stars of South Carolina's talented defense in 2010. As a sophomore, he led the team with 79 tackles to go with three sacks and three interceptions.

Gilmore plays boundary cornerback for South Carolina and is routinely asked to cover the opposing team's top wide receiver. The only thing keep Gilmore back from being considered a top prospect is that he's raw. His skill and athleticism are evident and he shows advanced football intelligence for a junior-to-be. But Gilmore really needs to improve on his technique.

It would also help Gilmore's game if he got stronger. He's a long, lean cornerback who lacks some strength but could be great if he's stronger.

Games viewed: (All 2010) Auburn, Florida, Florida State

Bold statement: If Gilmore can improve his technique and get stronger, he'll get strong consideration for the first round whenever he chooses to enter the draft.

Stephon Gilmore
6'1, 190 pounds | Cornerback | South Carolina

Notes:

• South Carolina plays in a lot of zone coverage, so Gilmore doesn't have a lot of good bump and run experience. Plays more off-man coverage and will need to get stronger to make it in tight bump and run.

• Is a smooth, fluid athlete who can flip his hips open to turn and run with the wide receiver.

• Helps make the calls in the secondary which is impressive for a player with only two years experience.

• Speed appears decent but nothing special. Has some trouble recovering when he's beaten over the top.

• Shows good but not great hands in coverage. Had three interceptions and two pass deflections in 2010.

• Solid tackling as a cornerback. Knows proper form and can get aggressive.

• Gilmore has been a versatile player for South Carolina. In addition to cornerback, he returns punts and has even lined up at quarterback in wildcat formations.