7 cornerbacks the Vikings could select in the 2023 NFL draft

Darius Rush (South Carolina)

Measurements:

• Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 195 pounds

2022 Stats:

• 38 tackles
• 2 interceptions
• 7 passes defended

Darius Rush is a long, physical corner who converted from wide receiver during his redshirt freshman season with the Gamecocks. Due to his position change, he is rather inexperienced and raw but has shown flashes of excellence with his ball skills.

Rush really impressed scouts at the Senior Bowl, reaching 21.65 MPH, the highest speed in the game. His coverage skills were on full display, showing that his speed allows for him to make up for some technical errors that come with inexperience. 

A weakness that has been identified in his game would be tackling, given his size and physicality. He also has trouble disengaging from blocks at times. He is extremely aggressive, which could play as both a strength and a weakness at times. His natural instincts are to attack the ball, and he does not shy away from helping in the run game. 

Overall, the sense is that Rush will be selected early into the third day, though his efforts at the 2023 Senior Bowl could cause teams to take a chance on him earlier. Another boom or bust potential player, though with proper coaching and experience, he could grow into a very effective cornerback in the NFL.