Kris Abrams-Draine 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Background: 

• Four-star wide receiver prospect that transitioned to corner ahead of the 2021 season

• Played quarterback his senior season of high school 
• Runner-up to Mr. Football in Alabama 

System: 

• Scheme tendencies: Blended coverages but Abrams-Draine plays frequent man coverage in the slot 
• 2022 projected role: Starting slot corner 

Pros: An accomplished high school wide receiver that played quarterback as a senior and went to Missouri to play receiver, Kris Abrams-Draine transitioned to cornerback ahead of the 2021 season and quickly became a key piece for the Tigers’ defense. Functioning primarily in the slot, Abrams-Draine’s quick feet, loose hips, and reactive athleticism enabled him to find success in coverage. As a former receiver, his ball skills show up on tape, especially when he has the chance to drive downhill on the football. I love the way he competes in coverage and battles to stay leveraged with a willingness to invade the catch point when challenged. Abrams-Draine has quickly proven to be an effective tackler despite a limited time playing defense. He also brings additional value as a return option. 

Cons: While it’s to be expected given his newness to the defensive side of the ball, Kris Abrams-Draine is still developing his instincts, recognition skills, and play speed. He features a slender build which could limit him to being a slot-only player—where he’ll need to showcase himself even more in terms of his ability to fit the run. There were some instances during my exposures where locating the football with his back to the ball was a challenge. His zone-processing skills are a work in progress where he is more reactive than anticipatory. He just needs more time on task to fully showcase himself at the position but there is plenty to like based on what he’s already shown.

Kris Abrams-Draine NFL Draft Scouting Report by Joe Marino