7 prospects for the Vikings to watch on Day 4 at the 2020 Combine
By Dean Jones
Damon Arnette – CB (Ohio State)
Damon Arnette saved the best for last with an outstanding senior season that has propelled him into first-round consideration for this year’s NFL Draft.
The Ohio State product underachieved prior to last season when one considers the tools he has at his disposal. Arnette made up for this with some impressive strides during his final campaign with 35 tackles, eight pass deflections, an interception, and a forced fumble.
The cornerback is exceptional in coverage and he possesses outstanding speed that allows him to recover well. Arnette is strong enough to compete off the block in tight coverage and he is a more than willing tackler.
One thing that Arnette will need to dispel at the Combine and during the remainder of his evaluation is character concerns. He made the wise decision to go back to college after a solid 2018 season and demonstrate to scouts an improved sense of discipline.
This is something he managed to do tremendously well and providing Arnette’s interviews go smoothly, then his off-field questions might not be much of a problem.
Arnette has superb instincts and he is going to perform well during drills. Whether the Vikings’ decision-makers will take a chance on someone with a reported chequered past is another matter.
Given the way he performed and became a leader in the Buckeyes’ locker room, Minnesota could do a lot worse than gambling on Arnette come this April at the NFL Draft.