NFL Combine Results- Virginia Tech Cornerback Dorian Strong

After an impressive five years as a Hokie, Strong was given the vote to the Combine

Feb 28, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Virginia Tech defensive back Dorian Strong (DB31) runs in the 40 yard dash during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

On day two of the NFL Combine, Hokie fans had all their eyes on cornerback Dorian Strong. Strong spent five years as a Hokie, twice being tagged with All-ACC Mentions.

Strong often times was touted as the Hokies' backup to Mansoor Delane who recently transferred to SEC powerhouse LSU.

In the Upper Marlboro, MD, natives three years as a Hokie, Strong complied a decent 2024, with 32 tackles (20 solo), two interceptions, and six pass breakups.

Yet, 2023 looked stronger in many categories, as he reeled in impressive stats. "Is just the second FBS cornerback since 2014 with 300+ coverage snaps gave up less than 10 receptions and less than 100 yards receiving in a season."

In the Hokies' 2023 revival, where they finished 7-6 after a disappointing 1-3 start. Strong was named as an All-ACC Third Team member.

Despite his slight downturn in production, Strong was graded a 73.9 PFF score, and most importantly he received an invite to Lucas Oil Stadium to showcase his skill.

• Height: 6'1'
• Weight: 185 lbs
• Hand Size: 9 1/4"
• Arm Length: 30 7/8"
• 40-Yard Dash:  4.50 (1.55 10-yard split)-18th best among cornerbacks
• Bench Press: NC
• Vertical Jump: 36.0" (10th best among cornerbacks)
• Broad Jump: 9' 8" (Last among cornerbacks)
• Three-Cone Drill: NC

Strong, along with fellow defensive powerhouses Antwaun Powell-Ryland, and Aeneas Peebles, were also on show yesterday, during day one of the combine, where each of them showed out.

The Hokies as a whole suffered an average season. After being tipped as potential ACC Championship contenders, Tech finished a measly 6-7 that ended in a mass exodus of players, either to the NFL Draft or another collegiate program. That 6-7 record also saw the departure of defensive coordinator Chris Marve, and offensive coordinator Tyler Bowen, from the program.

Here is the scouting report on Strong courtesy of NFL.com's Lance Zierlein:

Overview

"Long, instinctive cornerback who can be a disruptive press corner or scan the field for ball production in zone. Strong has average play strength getting off of blocks and tackling, but it doesn’t bother his press redirect or ability to effectively contest catches. He has issues matching route breaks and flipping to sprint against deep targets due to average hips and foot quickness. He plays with adequate field awareness and anticipation in reading the quarterback. Strong should begin his career as a backup, but his cover talent could ultimately overcome any coverage concerns on the next level."

Strengths

• Effective jab with lateral slide to sidetrack release and route timing.
• Studies quarterback from deep zone and anticipates his action.
• Plays with plus instincts and route anticipation in his drops.
• Stays tight to wideout’s chest when phasing the route.
• Takes clues from receiver’s eyes to time his turn and locate.
• Hand swipes at catch point are accurate and well-timed.
• Drops low and takes out runner’s legs with a wrap or chop.

Weaknesses

• Leggy movements create lagging change of direction in space.
• Small stalls with his turn-and-run and lateral transitions.
• Greedy intentions create opportunity to beat him with high/low and double-moves.
• Targeted by physical perimeter blocking from Vanderbilt.
• Flies into run support with steep angles and will lose contain.

Additional Links

NFL Combine: 40-Yard Dash Results Are in for Virginia Tech Cornerback Dorian Strong

Virginia Tech Women's Basketball: Instant Takeaways from the Hokies loss vs Boston College

NFL Combine Results - Virginia Tech Defensive Tackle Aeneas Peebles