The Falcons secondary is in shambles, and Trevon Diggs is a name that’s flying up draft boards.
The Alabama corner was recruited as an athlete, beginning his collegiate career as a wide receiver, and the younger brother of Stefon Diggs is often the most athletic player every time he steps on the field. Along with returning kicks, his fluidity, movement, and footwork check all of the boxes. He is still pretty raw as a corner but shows promise with his ability to be physical and press. Like Minkah Fitzpatrick before him, Nick Saban likes to use him in a variety of positions, creating different looks for opposing offenses. That versatility, along with his size will attract NFL teams picking in the top half of the draft. The 6’2″, 200-pound corner can shadow the best receiver on the outside, play in the slot, and even give you a look at safety.
After transitioning from a two-way player, Diggs has made his impact felt in 2019. Since he’s still adjusting to the position, he can get a little handsy which can lead to some penalties. The fact that he’s so long and strong can play against him, but he’ll need it in the NFL. Diggs will have to become more willing as a tackler, but as a pure cover corner, he’s as good as there is in college football. He’s got two picks, four pass breakups, and 12 tackles on the young season, and his 99-yard scoop and score last weekend against Tennessee will haunt the Vols for many years to come.
For the Falcons, Diggs can make an immediate impact, providing a #1 corner in the secondary with Desmond Trufant’s future in question and Isaiah Oliver not showing much so far. Atlanta might be drafting too high to select him, but if he keeps playing like he is, he’ll be in the conversation. It’s a heated battle between him and Okudah for the best cornerback in this draft. I’d say Okudah has the edge now, but there’s a lot of football left to go.