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NFL Draft 2021: 3 biggest late-round cornerback sleepers

By Sonny Martinez

Michigan State's Shakur Brown returns an interception during the second quarter on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.201024 Msu Rutgers 138a
Michigan State's Shakur Brown returns an interception during the second quarter on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.201024 Msu Rutgers 138a /
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Florida State Seminoles defensive back Asante Samuel Jr. (26) after Clemson does not complete the pass as the Florida State Seminoles take on the Clemson Tigers in college football at Doak S. Campbell Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018.Fsu Vs Clemson1011a
Florida State Seminoles defensive back Asante Samuel Jr. (26) after Clemson does not complete the pass as the Florida State Seminoles take on the Clemson Tigers in college football at Doak S. Campbell Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018.Fsu Vs Clemson1011a /

2. Asante Samuel Jr., CB, Florida State (Projected round: 3-5)

We already mentioned his father as one of the best late-round defensive back picks of all time. Can Asante Samuel Jr. follow in his father’s footsteps?

Samuel’s Seminoles career stated as a four-star prospect. He went on to have a good career at Florida State with last year’s three interceptions being a career high.

Samuel has gotten comparisons to Brandon Flowers and Denzel Ward, two players that have made an NFL impact. Samuel’s best quality is his ability in man coverage. He has quick feet and like Paulson Adebo, is able to keep pace. Samuel shut down receivers for only 178 yards receiving in eight games last season.

Samuel’s main issue, which isn’t something that can be taught, is his size. At 5-foot-10, 184 pounds, against some of the bigger players in the NFL, he’s likely going to struggle badly. A matchup against Travis Kelce or Mike Evans may not work in his favor.

The Florida State star would be good on a team where he doesn’t have to be “the” guy, but rather “a” guy. If he gets drafted to the right situation, he could be just as good as his father.

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