Sobo's Players #7: CB Orlando Scandrick

This years cornerback class runs deep, and even has run on blue turf. Brent Sobleski takes a look at a junior cornerback who declared himself ready for the NFL...

Orlando Scandrick, CB, Boise St.

Sobo Sez: The blue turf of Boise, Idaho generally has not been a hotbed for NFL prospects. That's turning around quickly, however, as offensive tackle Ryan Clady looks to be a lock as the first ever Bronco selected in the opening round.  

The duo of Clady and CB Orlando Scandrick were also the first underclassmen in school history to declare early for the NFL draft. 

Although not rated as high as the lineman, Scandrick will become a hot commodity on draft day.  Why?  He stands 5 feet 10 inches tall, with long arms, and legit 4.3 forty yard speed. 

Despite clearly possessing the physical tools, the cornerback’s level of competition will come into question.  Over the past two seasons, the Bronco secondary was rarely tested by draft-worthy prospects at wide receiver, let alone premier college talent.  When matched up against the run-and-shoot offense of Hawaii this past campaign, the Boise State defense allowed a trio of deadly Warrior receivers to shred them for over 100 yards each. 

Scandrick’s biggest test to date came against top receiving prospect Malcolm Kelly during the unforgettable Fiesta Bowl. This match-up quickly dissolved after an injury to the receiver early in the game. 

Scandrick also has a slight injury history.  Prior to this year’s bowl game, Scandrick injured his thumb, which required surgery, and even expressed potential injury as the reason he declared early. 

When asked about his strengths and weaknesses, the corner states his speed is his biggest asset while inconsistency plagues his game. Interesting note for Browns fans on this particular prospect: both Scandrick and Romeo Crennel share the same agent.  While prepared to be a potential late round pick, Scandrick has worked himself into a legit mid round prospect.

Tom Marino, NFL Scout: This is a solidly built player with outstanding speed and easy acceleration. Gets from point A to point B very quickly. Has good hips and showed the ability to plant and drive on the ball underneath.  I liked his foot quicks, balance points and ability to turn-and-go when defending the deep ball. I didn't see outstanding ball skills and zone play was inconsistent. Returner skills (punt) are a plus. Round 5 – 7 draft potential.

Chris Steuber, Scout.com Draft Analyst: Scandrick is an athletic cornerback who can impact a game as a return specialist. He’s fluid transitioning in coverage and has quick feet to defend a faster opponent. He has quick hips and reads the quarterback well while defending the opposition. He’s disciplined in coverage and understands his assignments. He’s a willing run defender and plays physically at the line of scrimmage. Scandrick is another Bronco that filed paper work with the advisory committee, and it appears he’s leaning towards entering the draft. Another year at Boise State would benefit Scandrick and his draft positioning. But, he’s a talented defender that has a chance to make a contribution to a team at the next level immediately.

More information on Orlando Scandrick:
NFL Draft Insider Blog
Rapidly Rising Juniors
NFL Combine Invitees: Cornerbacks
Junior declares for NFL Draft