Devon Witherspoon NFL Draft: Top 3 teams that should target Illinois’ star cornerback
The NFL Draft is quickly approaching, and this time of the year, a player's draft stock either goes up or down, and for Illinois cornerback Devon Witherspoon, it's soaring.
After a career-best year with Illinois, Witherspoon is a top-rated draft prospect. The cornerback has been turning heads as he has 14 pass break-ups, three interceptions and per PFF. He has only allowed a completion when targeted in his direction just 34.9% of the time.
Having a star cornerback can be hugely beneficial to the defense, but which teams should take Witherspoon if he is available when they are due to pick? We have seen what the likes of Trevon Diggs, Marcus Peters, and the like can do in a good defensive scheme. As for Witherspoon, he possesses the ability to be a bonafide starter.
Three teams that could draft Devon Witherspoon
#3 New England Patriots
It might be a little left field, but the Patriots' defense was in the middle of the pack last season. With Bill Belichick, it is hoped that the unit will return to its best and the addition of Devon Witherspoon could be just the tonic.
While a tackle is likely a better option, given the type of quarterbacks the Patriots will face in their division, having a physical corner who plays on instinct could be a great addition.
# 2 - Washington Commanders
The Commanders are in an interesting position. With Sam Howell thought to be the guy going forward at quarterback, Washington likely won't draft one, which could lead to Witherspoon being added to Jack Del Rio's stout defense.
With Darrick Forrest and Kam Curl taking the majority of snaps, having a third corner in Devon Witherspoon could give the Commanders flexibility in how they approach games. If Washington doesn't take an offensive player with its first pick, then beefing up its secondary is the next best thing.
# 1 - Las Vegas Raiders
With Jimmy Garoppolo now the starting quarterback, that is one problem solved. The other is the Raiders' horrible pass defense. That's where Witherspoon comes in.
Illinois CB Devon Witherspoon is a baller. Every game is just him flying around in coverage and as a tackler to make plays on the ball. My kind of DB. https://t.co/FA9sQLPhpG
Whether or not taking the physical corner at pick seven is too high remains to be seen, but adding the Illinois star will definitely fill one of the voids. Devon Witherspoon will likely become the Raiders' best secondary player, which tells you all you need to know about their current situation.