Detroit Lions land Chase Young in 2020 7-round mock draft
Jeff Gladney. 35. player. 872. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Cornerback. Texas Christian University
It has already been mentioned that Gladney is a draft crush of mine for the Lions and seeing him fall to pick 35 was exciting. With all the teams that need help at the position, having a top three man-coverage corner in the 2020 draft class fall into the Lions’ lap at 35 is excellent.
Gladney has quick feet that allow him to stay stuck to his receivers. With his natural speed, good athleticism, and impressive footwork Gladney excels in man-coverage, but can still perform well in zone coverage.
His best feats make him a top man-coverage corner and a great match for the Detroit Lions’ defense. If he is still up for grabs by the time the Lions pick in the second round the Lions should be sprinting to the podium.
In his four seasons at TCU, he was a constant playmaker in the secondary. He racked up 146 tackles which is very good for a cornerback.
He can also do what other Lions’ corners not named Darius Slay can’t do. Over three years, Gladney has come up with five interceptions and 32 pass break-ups. Adding him to the Lions’ secondary gives the team a corner that will provide numerous opportunities to create turnovers and the potential to have two shut-down corners.
The Draft Network‘s Joe Marino had high praise for Gladney and even compared his play style and traits to that of current Green Bay Packers star cornerback Jaire Alexander.
"“His rapid footwork, smooth hips, physicality, speed and route mirroring skills make him a dynamic option in man… he’s disruptive at the catch point. … He has all the traits needed to become a true No. 1 corner at the next level.”"
With Gladney, who can keep up with all kinds of receivers and who can defend against any pass, the Lions’ secondary would be better and much closer to completion.