Scouting the Nation 2024 NFL Draft: Top Midwest Cornerbacks

Who are this week's players that have the spotlight shined on them for the NFL Draft?

In this edition of Scouting the Nation, we take a look at the top two senior cornerbacks in the Midwest for the 2024 NFL Draft. 

CB TJ Tampa, Iowa State

The Cyclones have had a top-50 pick in the last two drafts, and that trend could continue next April. Tampa is the best cornerback returning to the Big 12 and put together fantastic tape in 2022. He excelled in press coverage, where his physicality and length were on full display. Tampa also has the fluid hips and route recognition to stay in phase with receivers. 

Wideouts’ really struggled to get open against Tampa. His patience and feel for the game showed up in zone coverage, and he could be a high-end zone corner at the next level as well. Tampa can defend the run and doesn’t miss tackles, which only adds to his game. Tampa is a scheme diversity cornerback who has size and length. He took a big jump on film last season and is an ascending prospect. 

If he can continue his success against the top Big 12 wideouts next season, Tampa will be viewed as a day-one starter in the NFL.

CB Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo

A shutdown cornerback, Mitchell is tall, long and has 4.3 speed that shows up on film. He has no issue staying step-for-step with wideouts vertically, and Mitchell consistently looked like the fastest player on the field. 

The closing burst is there, and Mitchell's instincts are off the charts. He also never looked out of control and, when targeted, made plays on the football. Mitchell had a four-interception game against Northern Illinois and 13 pass breakups on the season. As a two-year starter for the Rockets, Mitchell has done nothing but stand out. 

He will be a big-time riser over the course of the season and throughout the pre-draft process. Mitchell is a better prospect than Sean Murphy-Bunting, who came out of the MAC and went 39th a few years ago.

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