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2023 NFL Draft Prospect Review - DB Devon Witherspoon


Photo: fightingillini.com



Player Description



Name: Devon Witherspoon Position: Defensive back

College: Illinois Uniform Number: #31

Class: Junior Height: 6-0

Weight: 180 lbs Projected Round: mid 1st to 2nd round

 

Strengths:

  • Proficient, physical tackler

  • Outstanding hip fluidity when showing receivers

  • Consistent physicality at the top of routes

  • Eager to engage physically with opposing receivers

  • Excellent feet and overall coordination

  • High football IQ

  • Natural instincts and ball skills

  • Aggressive when breaking on routes

  • Excellent play recognition

  • Inside/outside versatility

  • Man-to-man coverage specialist

  • Excellent closing speed - able to recover quickly

  • Ideal short area quickness

  • High-level read-and-react skills on short and intermediate routes

  • Incredible competitive spirit


 

Weaknesses:


With defensive backs, aggression is often accompanied by penalties. In the case of Witherspoon, his over-eager tendencies have resulted in him taking a high number of pass interference penalties. Though there is little to no evidence of difficulty in shadowing receivers and staying on top of routes, his long speed is still a question mark against faster receivers. As adaptable as he may be, his average size and minimal length may be an issue when playing on the outside against bigger receivers.



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