Saturday, March 16, 2013

Chargers Draft Prospects: Jordan Poyer

Name: Jordan Poyer
School: Oregon State
Position: CB
Height: 5' 11''
Weight: 182 lbs.

The San Diego Chargers are facing some very tough decisions this off-season in regards to their secondary. Atari Bigby has already been let go, and CB's Jammer and Cason are entering free agency. This could potentially leave San Diego very thin at corner. With that in mind, the Chargers may very well be looking to take a corner early in the draft. One prospect that has stood out to me this year is Oregon State corner Jordan Poyer.

Pros: Poyer is the type of player who brings a lot to the table. He seems to have a good understanding of the game and uses his instincts to put himself in a position to make the play. While he doesn't have elite speed, he does have enough to keep up with most receivers. Poyer would fit well in a zone coverage scheme. He has drawn comparisons to Dre Bly. Bly was the kind of player who used his smarts to be a very productive corner in the NFL. He did manage to turn in a 4.46 40 yard dash at the NFL combine. He should fit in well as a nickel corner to start while also contributing heavily on special teams.

Cons: While he can get around the field quick enough, Poyer doesn't have the speed to stay with some of the speedier receivers in the NFL. He struggles with his consistency in man coverage. His athleticism isn't a particular strong suit for him. He could stand to add some weight through an NFL conditioning program, but that should come with time.

Poyer is projected as a 2nd to 4th round prospect. He has the ball skills to compete at the next level.