2018 Raiders Draft Prospect: CB Greg Stroman

2018 Raiders Draft Prospect

Name: Greg Stroman

Position: CB

School: Virginia Tech

Height: 5’11”

Weight: 178 pounds

Projected Round: 3-5

Stats

Speed

If you had to describe how Stroman runs, the word effortless comes to mind. He does not labor getting to speed. From the snap, Stroman accelerates with the receiver. Vertically, Stroman can stay with just about any receiver. Not to mention, his backpedal does not prevent him from turning and running. In essence, from pedal to run, Stroman’s fluidity and explosiveness jumps off the screen.

Coverage

Due to his speed, Stroman excels in man coverage. His ability to stay hip to hip prevents separation. Therefore, the quarterback’s window shrinks. On the other hand, Stroman’s makeup speed will make him take occasional risks that appear tricky. Yet, he is rarely out of a play involving his receiver. As a result, Stroman remains involved in the action. PFF stated that Stroman allowed a passer rating of 26.8 when targeted.

Agility

As important as foot speed is, quickness plays a role. For Stroman, who also returns punts, the ability to change direction remains a vital part of his skillset. Stroman pivots with subtlety. That is to say, he does not waste motion, steps, or energy. As a result, his quickness puts kick coverage on their heels. Furthermore, Stroman’s quickness allows his to find a sliver of daylight on returns.

Ball Skills

As a corner, you can break Stroman’s penchant for playing the ball in two parts. First, his positions his body to provide the biggest disruption. For example, on deep outs, Stroman gets underneath the receiver, placing himself between the wideout and the ball. With his head turned, the officials cannot flag him. Next, Stroman uses a late deflect. In effect, his hands appear a split second before the ball arrives. This trick prevents the receiver from closing his hands around the ball. On inside routes, Stroman rolls his hips and outside arm to slip between the receiver and the football

Tackling

Although Stroman shows toughness in the run game, his small frame hurts him when making stops. Nevertheless, Stroman still attempts to make a play.

Raiders Fit

Stroman could easily fulfill two problem areas for the Raiders. With T.J. Carrie expected to test free agency, Oakland needs a slot corner. If Stroman does not win an outside spot, shifting inside brings a speedy corner to the subpackage. Additionally, Stroman’s knack for big plays in the return games brings an extra wrinkle. Jalen Richard’s fumbles and lackluster play leaves the door open for Stroman to take those duties.