Solid frame with good weight distribution – looks suited for the role of physical NFL safety
Plays tough, and willing to stick his nose in on contact
100% effort prospect who takes no plays off – determined to be a factor on every play
Demonstrates good power through tackles, and ball carriers don’t forget him in a hurry
Major disruptor at the catch point, with good body control and active hands
PLAYMAKER: 9 interceptions and 257 total tackles in a four year career at Alcorn State and Louisville
Ultra-versatile; lined up as a deep fielder, down in the box, and as a slot safety at Louisville
Looks ideally suited to a hefty role on special teams
Con's:
Limited athleticism – doesn’t have the sideline to sideline range of a single high safety
Sluggish transitions in man coverage, and receivers able to cultivate separation early in the route
Doesn’t possess the pursuit speed to recover once the ball is caught
Doesn’t wrap up on tackles. Brings ball carriers down with force, with mixed results
Significant drop off in ball production after stepping up a level to Louisville
The Verdict:
“Qwynterrio Cole’s collegiate career has been varied and effective, first at Alcorn State before testing himself against FBS opponents with Louisville. A hard hitter who enjoys coming downhill, Cole’s profile fits the strong safety mould best, but he’s also been remarkably productive in other alignments. Despite not having the coverage capabilities you’d hope for, Cole possesses good hands and a nose for the football at the catch point that has made him something of a takeaway artist on the back end. Those moments became rarer at Louisville and that trend is likely to be exacerbated in the NFL, where his lack of athleticism will likely be more exposed. If he can clean up the tackling, Cole projects to be a backup strong safety with enough special teams prowess to make him a valued bottom of the roster teammate.”
PREVIOUSLY THE FOUNDER OF NFL DRAFT UK, SIMON HAS BEEN COVERING COLLEGE FOOTBALL AND THE NFL DRAFT SINCE 2009. BASED IN MANCHESTER, SIMON IS ALSO CO-CREATOR & WEEKLY GUEST OF THE COLLAPSING POCKET PODCAST.