Alabama football plays a pivotal role in these NFL draft debates
4. Who is CB1?
Most years are already challenging when it comes to evaluating talent. The nuance of every draft adds unique circumstances. However, none are more unique than this season, and that is shown with the debate surrounding the best corner in college football.
There are two corners who are seen as premier prospects. Alabama football’s Patrick Surtain had three quality years of tape with a high floor and plenty of transferrable traits. Caleb Farley transitioned to corner after playing on offense, but he shined in 2019. Many had him as the top corner in the class before the season began. He then decided to opt out of the season, so scouts have been unable to gather more film surrounding a player with quality traits but room to grow.
So, what do you do? Farley is certainly more volatile of a prospect. If he continues to grow, he might be one of the best corners in college football early on. However, Surtain is as close as you can get to a can’t-miss prospect.
Also, their play styles and body types are different. Farley has longer arms that help him break up passes. Surtain thrives in press-man coverage.
So, which player is CB1? It could honestly be either player. It just comes down to the draft order and team fit. Farley is a better fit for some teams early in the draft, but the Dallas Cowboys would likely draft Surtain if both were available when they picked. It’s truly a coin toss, but I think Surtain will be drafted first unless there is a trade.