2012 NFL Draft Profiles: Brandon Boykin - CB - Georgia

Another position that could potentially be upgraded and stocked with fresh young talent via the NFL draft is cornerback. One of my favorites at this position, though not the top rated prospect, is Brandon Boykin of Georgia.

Boykin is a very athletic guy, an electric returner as well, and plays fast on the football field. He has un-coachable traits that if developed could see him as one of the league's better players at the CB position. As of right now he's somewhat raw, but man is he entertaining to watch. Not only does he return kicks and punts, but he's taken hand-offs on offense and even caught passes including a touchdown against Michigan State.

After the jump we'll take a look at some scouting notes.

Some excerpts from NFP's scouting report, as always click here for more:

Exhibits some savvy to his game. Plays a lot in the slot, loves to read the quarterbacks eyes and use his athleticism to make plays on the football. Is raw with his footwork off the line, consistently jumps backwards and/or shuffle steps into his drop. Is a better athlete than corner at this stage.

However, has improved his pad level and balance when asked to collect himself out of his breaks and close, creating more burst from his lower half when asked to click and close. Is most comfortable in zone coverage, allowing him to feel the routes develop around him, exhibits good range and has the initial burst and closing speed to put himself around the football. Improved his overall game as a press corner as well this year.

Demonstrates a second gear when asked to track the football and can make up for a false step when asked to play in space.

It should also be noted that Boykin was a great leader on the Bulldogs football team and is a good kid. CBS Sports had the following notes related to this:

Elected as one of the team's defensive captains ... One of two recipients of the team's Leon Farmer Award for dedication to the strength and conditioning program and one of two defensive players to receive a Coaches Leadership Award

Earned one of team's True Grit Award for defense at conclusion of spring practice ...

I'd be happy to take this young man in the second round and further bolster the secondary as well as the return game.