In the NFL Draft, one of the biggest traits teams will look for is length and size, especially in the defensive backfields. Today’s report dives into a cornerback prospect playing ball in Los Angeles who has this length in spades, Devin Kirkwood.
A 4 star recruit by 247 sports, Devin committed his talents to UCLA. In 2021, he appeared in all 12 games, as both a depth player on special teams and at cornerback as well, totaling 23 tackles, 1 forced fumble and 1 interception.
2022 saw Devin only start 9 games that year, due to injury. However, he totaled 27 tackles and 1 fumble recovery, including a season high 7 tackles versus Washington.
2023 saw Devin appear in every game (13) and start in 3, while on his way to recording 24 tackles, 1 forced fumble and 1 interception as well. Devin has also been on the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll for 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 as well at UCLA.
The production numbers haven’t shown up for Devin, but does his tape match up to this lack of production? Let’s take a deep dive and find out.
Player Info
Name: Devin Kirkwood
Jersey: No. 3
Position: Cornerback
School: UCLA
Class: Senior
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 205 lbs.
Devin Kirkwood Strengths
It was mentioned at the beginning of the article, but Devin’s tall frame and long arms will be an asset at the next level. Couple this with his straight line speed, powerful hands for contested catch scenarios, and his fluidity in his hips, he can turn and run with the best of the receiver talent at the next level.
He also has exceptional instincts in zone coverage, and has solid ball skills to be able to play the ball while in the air. He also is a very competitive player and has no issues with lining up with the best of them.
Devin Kirkwood Weaknesses
Devin could use some work in his backpedal, as his feet often get sloppy and cause him to give up some unnecessary leverage. He also plays too high as a cornerback, which could create some issues in run support getting off of blocks to make the tackle.
In addition, while he has this amazing athletic ability, the production numbers haven’t matched the talent. Devin will need some additional seasoning to learn how to best use his tools to help increase his production numbers at the next level.
Draft Projection
I currently have Devin as a solid day 3 selection, with a mid to late 5th round grade. His best landing spot is with a team that covets taller cornerbacks who have athletic traits and can use those effectively. Some Teams I feel could be in on Devin:
- Baltimore Ravens (While cornerback isn’t a major need for the Ravens, Devin could fit in well in this defensive scheme. In addition, this would insurance for Marlon Humphrey, should he be able to stay unhealthy as well or begin to decline as he ages.)
- Indianapolis Colts (The Colts have a major need at cornerback, but may choose to address other needs early. With that said, a day 3 flier on Devin to help develop his skills in Gus Bradley’s scheme wouldn’t be a bad decision either.)
- New York Giants (With some folks on their roster having not lived up to expectations, the Giants could look to add a day 3 talent who has the athletic ability to develop into an every down guy, or end up as a special teams specialist/glue guy in your locker room.)
Ultimately, whichever team selects Devin will need to have a development plan in place for him, as he will not be ready to start Day 1. However, with some additional seasoning, some time in an off-season workout program, and some film study, Devin can eventually develop into a very solid slot cornerback/2nd cornerback/special teams ace.
My comparison for Devin Kirkwood: Martin Emerson Jr, CB, Cleveland Browns
