A clear difference is immediately apparent between defensive backs and most other positions. Regardless of how good a team is they can never have enough good defensive backs. Especially in today’s era in which pass offenses have never had greater emphasis. As a result, it’s expected that at least six teams will draft defensive backs in the first round. And it’s quite possible that number could exceed the opening number with the NFL draft odds. With that in mind let’s take a look at the top defensive backs for the 2020 NFL Draft.
2020 NFL Draft Total First Round Defensive Backs Drafted
| Date: | Thursday, April 23 through Saturday, April 25 |
|---|---|
| 2020 NFL Draft TV Coverage: | NFL Network, ESPN, ABC |
| Total Defensive Backs Drafted in the First Round: | Over 6.5 -300, Under 6.5 +200 |
Defensive Backs Drafted Odds Analysis
For positions like quarterback, team needs are usually quite obvious. Counter to that is defensive backs, which are not quite as noticeable to the offshore bookmaker betting public. What is most important is that teams will still take a top defensive back high in the draft, unless another position clearly stands out as a need that can’t be ignored. Naturally, the SEC will offer the most first-round DB’s.
CB Jeff Okudah
First among the most coveted players in the entire draft is Jeff Okudah of Ohio State. In fact, Okuda is the fourth-ranked player overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. Nobody is considered a better man coverage corner of any defensive back listed with the NFL draft odds. Beyond that, his size and speed are rated as perfect for the NFL. In sum, his is the epitome of a lockdown corner.
CB Kristian Fulton
Second-ranked among defensive backs is Kristian Fulton of LSU. Fulton ranks as the second-best cover man in the 2020 NFL Draft. He is reliable at staying in position and is a top closer. And few are better at press-man coverage. Most important of all he posted among the highest grades in the country playing in the SEC.
S Xavier McKinney
Certainly, any defensive back from the SEC, especially one coached by Alabama’s Nick Saban, is going to be a hot commodity. McKinney has added appeal because of his versatility. He can play deep safety, in the slot or at linebacker. Additionally, he is a dangerous and proven blitzer. Another advantage that McKinney boasts is that he is a sure tackler, a rare commodity in today’s NFL.
CB Trevon Diggs
Alabama’s Trevon Diggs is yet another dominant defensive back from the SEC. First, he has the size and speed necessary to cover any NFL receiver. Encompassing more value is the fact that he is a playmaker in every sense of the word. Few players at any position will offer more in the way of athleticism and quickness. Diggs ranks as high as anyone when it comes to the ability to cover one on one.
CB CJ Henderson
Florida’s CJ Henderson was not lost in the SEC shuffle as an elite cornerback. He combines strong technique exceptional speed.
CB Jeff Gladney
Contrarily, Gladney cracks the SEC code of being a Big 12 player from TCU. Despite the fact that Gladney is 5 foot, 10 inches he plays taller than that. He relies on strong technique with physicality. He also is a good tackler that offers support vs. the run.
The Pick: Due to other team needs and quality depth at this position teams won’t feel rushed to take a DB. Thus, Under 6.5 is the pick!