2023 NFL Draft Prospect Review - CB Clark Phillips III
Player Description
Name: Clark Phillips III Position: Cornerback
College: Utah Uniform Number: #1
Class: Sophomore Height: 5-10
Weight: 180 lbs Projected Round: Late 1st to early 2nd
Strengths:
Fundamentally sound cornerback
Phenomenal route recognition skills
Twitchy, explosive athlete
Elite closing speed and burst
Fluid with his transition from backpedal
Near-flawless in zone coverage
Highly instinctive - able to diagnose plays before they unfold
Seamless change of direction skills
Patient and disciplined
Tremendous football IQ
High-level ball skills
Terrific read-and-react skills
Physical at the catch point
High competitive spirit
Weaknesses:
At a little over 5'10, there are real concerns about Phillips III on the outside. Though his long speed is good enough to keep up with receivers on the outside, he does not possess the requisite length that would allow him to win 50/50 balls against taller, longer receivers. Due to his lack of length, he is somewhat inconsistent in disengaging from blocks, making him vulnerable on screen. At times, he can look lost when transitioning out of his backpedal in open space.