The NFL Draft is drawing closer which means that the tension for the Eagles to make the right move is only growing stronger. They have been connected to several cornerbacks but there’s one in particular that they should absolutely be in on. At the start of the 2023 season, Kool-Aid McKinstry received a lot of the press, but Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold emerged as one of the Tide’s best and most versatile defenders. He did not initially get much fanfare, but now he is likely the first cornerback to be selected in the 2024 NFL Draft which adds pressure to the Eagles draft plans.
Terrion is from Tallahassee, FL where he played high school football at John Paul II Catholic. He was a five-star recruit as a safety and chose Alabama over many Florida programs. Arnold transitioned to Corner during his 2021 red-shirt year with the Tide and quickly established himself a year later. In 2022, Arnold played in 9 games, playing 549 snaps at cornerback. He racked up 35 tackles, 8 assists, 7 stops, 7 pass breakups, 1 interception. Then in 2023, he increased his playing time to 13 games with 780 snaps. His performance also improved with 47 tackles, 13 assists, and 21 stops, along with 12 pass breakups, 5 interceptions, and allowing an elite low Quarterback rating of 52.5 when targeted.
He annoys WRs with his press style and has elite play recognition demonstrating a very high football IQ. Terrion communicates well with everyone in the backfield, passes off routes with ease, and transitions better than anyone else in the class. He is also vicious attacking ball-carriers. One of the most sound technical players versus both the pass and the run.
If the Eagles want a long-term answer at Cornerback, moving up for Terrion Arnold in round one is the solution.
Scheme:
Terrion will not be scheme-dependent. He is extremely versatile, whether he is in zone or press, he’s your guy. He annoys WRs with his press style and uses his hands to disrupt receivers as well as anyone in college. Arnold is also very patient and allows the receiver to come to him. The most technically sound corner you will find at the collegiate level.
He can defend every route. Showcasing the speed to cover verticals, and fluid hips to transition from sideline to sideline, he can also play inside or outside.
Skill Set:
Terrion communicates well with everyone in the backfield, passes off routes with ease, and transitions better than anyone else in the class. Uses his hands to disrupt receivers as well as anyone in college. Demonstrates an elite ability to change direction as shown here during the short shuttle time drills.
His background as a safety is always on display too, especially versus the run. He respects the edge and defends it well while also shedding blocks easily to make strong tackles. He wraps up well and takes the correct angles. Arnold has elite traits all around. The Alabama product is elite versus the run, has elite play recognition, elite closing speed, and is very instinctive. He is not only physical but welcomes the contact.
Arnold is excellent at undercutting the receiver and has the speed to make interception. He also mirrors receivers as well as anyone in this class. Exudes confidence and exhibits finger-wag swag. He tested well and has an incredible high ceiling.
Dedication:
Arnold has a relentless work ethic and the desire to be the best.
Leader:
Arnold was also one of the most popular players in the Alabama locker room and was always engaging with his teammates. Which is exactly what the Eagles want to add into their unique culture.
Conclusion:
Terrion’s blend of confidence and physicality combined with a high football IQ, as well as the desire and dedication to be the best are what make him a cornerstone for any NFL defense and a franchise cornerback. The Eagles have not had a homegrown cornerback with this amount of potential in quite some time. It’s time for Philadelphia to have a full circle moment and future proof their defense. With Bradberry and Slay being up there in age, Arnold is the right player to bridge the Eagles into the future.
How would you feel if the Eagles drafted Terrion Arnold in the first round?
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