Could AJ Green become a starting outside corner?

AJ Green, CB
School: Oklahoma State | Conference: Big 12
College Experience: Senior | Age: 21
Height / Weight: 6’1” / 190 lbs
Projected Draft Status: Round 4 to 6
NFL Comparison: Antrel Rolle

College Statistics

Player Overview

Green played in 9 games his freshman year, but ended up starting all of the games in the last three seasons of his career at Oklahoma State. During his sophomore season, he was tied for second in the Big 12 with 4 INTs and ended up being recognized by his coaches with the Barry Sanders Award for making the biggest contribution to the team with the least recognition. He was also second team Academic All Big 12. In 2018, he was frequently matched up against the opposition’s top receiver and had a conference leading 11 pass break-ups. His overall performance got him recognized as second team All Big 12.

In his senior season, Green was named team captain by his fellow players and was second team All Big 12, despite not being thrown at as frequently as in previous seasons. He collected 49 tackles, 1 INT, and 5 passes defended on his way to being named as a semi-finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award - presented to the top defensive back in the country (LSU safety Grant Delpit won).

Strengths

• Able to use his size effectively against receivers.
• Pro Day 40 time (~4.5) was considerably faster than Combine time.
• Has good balls skills for contested receptions.
• Plays effectively in the vertical game.
• Could be a gunner on special teams.

Weaknesses

• Needs to improve footwork.
• Not particularly effective in run support.
• Doesn’t have a great wingspan.
• Has to work to improve press technique.

Let’s See His Work

How He Would Fit

With Quinton Dunbar’s departure, Ronald Darby signed on a one-year deal, and Fabian Moreau in the final year of his rookie deal, the Redskins need additional depth - and potential future starters - at outside cornerback. Redskins’ scouts were at Green’s Pro Day in early March, so presumably there’s at least some interest in him. As a Day 3 prospect, Green’s size and experience make him a reasonable player to take a flyer on as a developmental option. His experience as a team captain, academic achiever, and team contributor all seem consistent with the type of player that Rivera and Smith want to build their team around.