Detroit Lions Draft: Seven-Round Mock (January Edition)
By Alex Reno
Nov 29, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish receiver Will Fuller (7) is defended by Southern California Trojans cornerback Josh Shaw (6) at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Strengths
Very versatile and has played nearly every position in the secondary. Spent his career playing at both Florida and USC as a cornerback/safety. Depending on who you ask, some teams may want to keep him at cornerback, and others may way to convert him to a full-time safety. Regardless, Shaw has the size and instincts to play either position.
Shaw is a sure tackler who relies on wrapping the ball carrier up rather than going for the big shoulder hit. He shows great downhill speed for a safety.
Weaknesses
Shaw’s stock may take a hit for his extremely bizarre situation where he was suspended by USC for fabricating a story about rescuing his nephew from drowning. Depending on how well he does interviewing with NFL teams, it may make or break his draft stock.
As a cornerback, Shaw has to prove that he’s able to hang with speedy NFL receivers. If not, he may be limited to playing safety or as a press-corner.
How He Fits
I believe Shaw would be a perfect fit for the Lions as either a developmental cornerback on the outside, or a backup strong safety. Rashean Mathis will be a free agent this year and the Lions could use some depth at both corner and safety.
Game Tape
Next: Round 6