2024 NFL Draft Prospects: Cornerback

2/20/23: Most freshman don't play immediately for Nick Saban, but McKinstry was an anomaly. McKinstry notched 26 tackles, an interception, a pass broken up and a sack in 2021. There is no doubt that McKinstry has the size and talent to rise as he gains experience. In 2022, McKinstry recorded 35 tackles, a sack, an interception and 15 passes broken up. He possesses upside and potential.

2/20/23: Before Melton decided to return to Rutgers, WalterFootball.com reported in the Hot Press that some team sources thought Melton could have ended up as their highest-graded corner for the 2023 NFL Draft. They also felt he could have had the best 2022 tape of any cornerback prospect eligible for the 2023 NFL Draft. In 2022, Melton went under the radar because of playing for a bad Rutgers team that did not qualify for a bowl game. He totaled 33 tackles, two interceptions and nine passes broken up on the year.

Melton is listed at 6-foot, 190 pounds, but NFL team sources say he might be more like 5-foot-11, 188 pounds. They note that Melton has excellent speed. He is super fast, which lets him shut down the deep part of the field. Receivers can't outrun him, and he is a superb athlete who can mirror the route to prevent separation. Melton is a tough competitor and has a lot of upside.

2/20/23: Lassiter was behind some more experienced players before, but he has a good skill set and could be a breakout cover corner for the Bulldogs in 2023. He recorded 38 tackles and four passes batted in 2022.

2/20/23: Arnold played well for Alabama in 2022, recording 45 tackles, an interception and eight passes broken up. Arnold (6-0, 188) has quality size to go along with quickness and athleticism.

2/20/23: Moore recorded 31 tackles, 1.5 sacks and five passes broken up in 2022 as the backup star-position defender behind Brian Branch. Now that Branch has moved on, Moore should take over as the starter in 2023.

Moore put together a phenomenal freshman season in 2020, totaling 44 tackles, one forced fumble, three interceptions and six passes broken up. He had 16 tackles and an interception in 2021, but also missed the final four games of the year with an injury. The 6-foot, 190-pounder has quality size to go with speed and instincts. He can play safety or nickel corner.