Detroit Lions draft preview CB D.J. Hayden

Took a quick look at Houston CB DJ Hayden. Two films (UCLA, Penn State 2011). He is best known for tearing the inferior vena cava near his heart in a practice collision. This is usually a fatal injury. He has been cleared to workout. He played the short side corner for the Cougars.

Pro day 5113 189 4.4 1000 broad pulled hamstring
2012: 61t 4 int

Strengths: fast break on the ball in the zone. Great transition out of his back pedal. Decent in run support.

Weakness: gets worse as he gets further from the line. Does track the deep ball well. Has terrible hands.

Bottom line: a good corner prospect but not a slam dunk. He reminds me of Alphonso Smith with bad hands. The injury only clouds the rating. 6 upside with risk. 4th round.