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Following our draft profiles on Brock Osweiler and Gerell Robinson, we now move to cornerback Omar Bolden, who has rebounded from a season-ending injury to becoming a fast riser this draft season.
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 202 pounds
Age: 23
College Career: Saw action in 41 games with 35 starts. Missed all of 2011 after tearing ACL in April. Totaled 138 tackles, 21 passes defended and seven interceptions (returning two for touchdowns) in his career. In last full season--2010--was one of only four players named a unanimous first team All-Pac 10 selection. Also returned two kickoffs for touchdowns in his career.
Strengths: Has good size at 5'10" and 202 pounds. Tremendous strength for the position, having led all defensive backs at the Combine with 24 bench press reps. Worries about his speed and agility after the injury are long gone after impressive showings at ASU's Pro Day and private workouts. Ran in the 4.4-4.5 range, and was explosive in agility drills. Great instincts and anticipation. Has the ability to play zone or man-to-man coverage schemes, especially with his strength in bump-and-run. Also adds great value as a dynamic return man. Great leader, who maintains a positive attitude and continued to help the team even when sidelined by injury.
Weaknesses: The primary concern surrounding Bolden will be about his recovery from injury. While he has proven that his speed and agility are back, teams are always a little wary about such a severe injury. He also has not played a game since December 2nd, 2010. While an outstanding cover man, Bolden can sometimes be beaten by double moves. Would be a better for a team that plays more man-to-man, as his zone skills are still developing. However, top to bottom, Bolden may be the safest pick ASU will produce in 2012.
Round Projection: 3rd to 5th
Prediction: Denver Broncos, 3rd round, 87th overall
See our other draft profiles here: Brock Osweiler | Gerell Robinson | Vontaze Burfict | Garth Gerhart | Dan Knapp
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