Phillip Gaines Scouting Report

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Phillip Gaines CB Rice #15
Ht: 6’0″
Wt: 193
40: 4.38

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[level-2014-scouting-reports]

Size/Athleticism: Adequate height. Slightly underdeveloped frame and could add some weight. Long arms for his size. Ideal speed and agility. Can turn and run with any receiver and has the quick-twitch athleticism to stay with the quicker receivers underneath.

Coverage: Extremely confident in his coverage skills and it shows in his game. Very smooth in his backpedal and does a great job staying with his assignment while keeping an eye on the quarterback until it’s necessary for him to turn and run downfield. Plenty of experience in man to man and zone coverage.

Ball skills: Does a great job reading the quarterback and playing the ball. Turns himself into the receiver and consistently impact the play in 50/50 situations.

Run support: Willing to step up and closes quickly. Not a wrap-up tackler and lacks the strength to consistently makes plays even when he’s in position. Great range and can make plays in pursuit.

Intangibles: Suspended for 2013 season opener for violation of team rules.

Durability: Suffered a broken wrist in 2009 which was reinjured in 2012. Lean frame raises some long term durability concerns but started final 35 games of his career.

[level-2014-scouting-reports]

Comments: Gaines is a fluid cover corner who has the confidence to play up in press coverage despite limited physical strength. He does a great job reading the quarterback and reacting to the ball. He would be an ideal fit in a cover-two system and has the tools to start immediately.