2013 NFL Draft: Desmond Trufant prospect profile

We scout Washington cornerback Desmond Trufant.

The 49ers biggest needs in the draft are defensive line and secondary. This prospect profile features a top tier cornerback who would improve the 49ers (or any teams) secondary from day one. Washington cornerback Desmond Trufant.

Basics:

Height: 5'11"
Weight: 190
40 Time: 4.31
Vertical: 37.5"
Broad Jump: 11'1"
Bench Reps: 16

Pros:

• Versatility: Trufant plays great in zone coverage. He has also shown the confidence and ability to stand his ground while in press coverage. He displays both techniques well, and coverage versatility will be a big plus for teams interested in his services. I remember during Senior Bowl practices the physicality Trufant exhibited, pressing and putting his hands all over the receiver.
• Pedigree: He has two brothers in the pros, Isaiah and Marcus.
• Speed: 4.31 forty speed goes a long way for a cornerback, especially if they have a high football I.Q. to go along with it. Barring a mental lapse,Trufant will rarely get beat by the receiver on deep passes down the field.

Cons:

• Tackling: Trufant is not a sound tackler. His technique is mediocre at best and more often than not he doesn't go low and wrap up the defender.
• Not a pick machine: Trufant had only one interception this season, and six in his college career.

Why He Might Fit The 49ers:

Trufant's coverage versatility could interest the 49ers. He could slide into any scheme and he isn't strictly a zone corner or man corner, Trufant can do both. He could fit right into a 49ers scheme that plays a lot of man, as well as some zone. Desmond has the ability to press effectively, while excelling in man coverage at a high level.

Why He Might Not Fit The 49ers:

The 49ers would probably have to trade up in the draft to grab Trufant. That could get in the way of him being a fit. The 49ers also like players who make tackles on a fundamentally sound basis, and Trufant needs work in this regard. I don't think this is a major concern, but it is likely on their con list. Lastly, the 49ers might not want to draft a cornerback with their first or second pick, instead opting to select a position of higher need, such as on the defensive line or at the safety position.

What They Are Saying:

- Mike Mayock has Trufant listed as his No. 3 Cornerback

- Check out all of his stats at cfbstats.com

Conclusion:

It comes down to whether or not the 49ers feel he is the best corner available in the draft. Trufant will not fall to pick 31, and they would have to trade up to acquire him. Anywhere from pick 20-24 would be a wise spot to grab Trufant. I am not advocating a trade up on draft day to get him, nor am I going to throw that idea out either. Desmond does many of the things that make scouts and myself think he will be a legitimate No. 1 corner in the NFL.

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Source: http://www.ninersnation.com/2013/3/24/4086436/2013-nfl-draft-desmond-trufant-scouting-report

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