Demetrious Nicholson

ESPN Analyst
Updated null

A few inches a way from being a top national corner, Nicholson is a smaller, quick-twitched defensive back who excels in off-man coverages. Marginal height and bulk are his biggest detriments as a college prospect but this guy simply competes and plays taller on film -- he consistently comes up with the big play in coverage and has excellent ball and awareness skills. Turns into a receiver when the ball is in the air. Fluid, quick-footed defensive back with great hips and turns. Sticks to receivers as good as any in and out of their breaks. Displays smooth footwork, fluid turns and sharp redirection skill. Recovery burst and quickness is very good. Transitions quickly out of his tight pedal breaking underneath on short-to-intermediate routes. Jumps routes with keen anticipation skills and breaking quickness. Closes the cushion fast and limits yards after the catch. However, we do have concerns about his size and ability to match up versus today's taller and more physical college receivers. Does not project high as a bump-and-run or press guy at this time and may struggle to set the edge on run support as well until he physically develops more. Appears quicker than fast as well. That said, Nicholson is one of the smoother more fluid corners in this class and will be highly-coveted for his ability to excel in off-man coverages and make constant big plays around the football. ... for full access to RecruitingNation become an Insider

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