Desmond Ricks: Scouting Report
Size
Desmond Ricks has the height, length and frame to be an elite college cornerback. He still has plenty of filling out to do, but the frame is there to continue to add good weight. Ricks is physical in coverage where he uses his length to keep receivers from getting clean releases. One he fills out he will have the size and frame to match-up with most receivers one on one.
Athleticism
Ricks has the speed and explosiveness needed to cover top receivers. He shows excellent burst breaking on the ball. Ricks is a fluid athlete who can change directions efficiently in coverage. With an explosive athletic profile that includes high end speed and leaping ability, Ricks is one of the most athletically gifted cornerbacks in the class.
Hips/Technique
Ricks has the length and hips to play press man coverage, showing the ability to flip his hips and run with receivers. He is also comfortable backing out of man coverage and playing off. Ricks covers plenty of ground in zone, with the range and length to take away passing windows. He sometimes wanders too far to try and make a play, leaving a window open, but should be able to reign that in with coaching.
Ball Skills
Ricks is excellent playing the ball in the air. His range, length and leaping ability give him all of the athletic tools needed to make a play. Ricks has the body control to make plays on the ball in difficult situations, stretching out to high point the ball or going around receivers to make the play. He is tough to beat in contested situations and will only get better as he gets stronger.
Physicality/Tackling
Ricks recognizes run plays quickly and shows the ability to get downhill. He does a good job of containing on the edge, showing a willingness to be physical and the ability to make the tackle. Ricks is physical in coverage, showing the ability to challenge receivers at the line of scrimmage and fight for the ball downfield.
Projection
Desmond Ricks has the athletic profile to be an elite cornerback. He has the size, speed and athleticism to become a dominant player in the secondary. Ricks is oozing with physical ability and should develop into one of the best cornerbacks in college football.
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