Jordan Poyer CB Oregon State #14
Wt: 191
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Size/Athleticism: Adequate height and overall size. Combine performance was about as bad as it gets for a cornerback. He struggled to show the speed and explosiveness necessary to play the position. However, on the field he appears to possess at least average athleticism, if not more. It’s tough to determine the reasons for the poor combine showing, but it could be attributed to a 2012 knee injury.
Coverage: Very polished in both man and zone coverage. He does a great job keeping his eye on the quarterback whenever possible and adjusting to the ball in the air. He makes up for his modest athleticism by limiting his false steps and not biting on subtle moves. He’s willing to get physical at the line of scrimmage. He can’t play press against every receiver, because he gives up a good amount of size in certain matchups, but he will take on bigger, stronger receivers and win.
Ball skills: Focuses on the quarterback and reacts quickly. Turns and tracks the ball in the air and puts himself in position to make plays. 11 interceptions over the last two season were due primarily to his ability to turn himself into the receiver. He’s not very physical when it comes to fighting for the football. If he’s beat out for the best position to attack the ball, he’ll lose every time. Wouldn’t trust him in the red zone with a taller possession receiver in most situations.
Run support: Not real enthusiastic about mixing it up near the line of scrimmage, but he consistently takes correct angles and puts himself in position to clean up the mess if the ball carrier gets to him. He makes himself the last line of defense, and does a decent job, but he very rarely steps in a blows up a play. He’s a reluctant playmaker who has the ability, but not the desire to excel in this area.
Intangibles: Captain in 2012.
Durability: Suffered a knee injury in 2012.
Comments: Poyer lacks elite upside, but he is incredibly polished and ready to contribute immediately. He can step in as a starter as the No. 2 corner from day one. He may never rise above that on the depth chart because of his physical limitations, but at least you know what you’re getting with him. I also like that he seems to know who he is as a cornerback. He isn’t overaggressive and seems to consistently take the right approach to each matchup. A young corner with a realistic image of his physical skills is a rarity.
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