Eli Apple Analysis

Eli Apple has been shooting up draft board due to his showing at the combine where he put up a 4.40 forty while standing 6'1 199 pounds. He also put his hands on display as he made multiple one handed grabs look easy during drills. Apple is without a doubt a talented athlete and can move extremely well for a corner at that height.

While watching tape on Apple he usually plays it safe and doesn't take many big chances. Although he does play closer to the line and can stay with his man well, he goes for the tackle more than the pass breakup during short quick routes. He also doesn't show enough hustle playing against the run as he is often seen behind piles instead of getting his nose dirty. His best quality is during deep balls, as he can really jump up for the ball and uses he long arms to his advantage. Apple is still very young as he is only a redshirt sophomore but has all the tools to become a solid cornerback in the NFL. With some good coaching he could very well be one of the top corners in this draft down the road.

Projecting Apple in the draft is a different story. As of now Apple is still a work in progress even though he has all the tools to become a lock down corner. Apple should not be taken in the top 10 and should not be considered with the Bucs pick at number 9. He will be one of these workout warriors that will be taken higher than anticipated.

Questionable Mock Draft

Any true Bucs fan knows the biggest weakness of this team is pass rush and that it will be addressed in the draft and/or free agency. Late last night a fan polled mocked draft came up with some very confusing results via @DraftRT

Dolphins select DeForest Buckner, DL, Oregon.
Tampa Bay is now on the clock.

— 2016 NFL Draft (@DraftRT) March 6, 2016

Eli Apple hasn't really been in the top 10 radar yet he shows up here. With all due respect to Apple the Bucs have other needs and to be honest there will be more talented players on the board. More in depth analysis of Apple later, but the big problem here is how could he be taken over both Shaq Lawson and Noah Spence. I am really high on Shaq Lawson and believe if he is available, he will be the selection for Tampa Bay. The obvious fact of a better pass rush helps a poor secondary needs to be realized.