Desmond Trufant has to be the most underrated defensive back in the entire 2013 NFL Draft. In fact, I have him closer to Dee Milliner as the No. 2 corneback in the class than most would believe. He is solid in press coverage, absolutely dominates on the outside against good competition and is a relentless ball hawk down the field.
Lets take a look at eDraft's scouting report for the talented young Washington product.
| Ht | Wt | Class | Ranking | Projection |
| 5'11" | 190 | Senior | 11th | Top 20 |
Strengths
Build: At 5'11" and 190 pounds, some would come to the conclusion that Trufant doesn't possess the ideal size. That's just plain foolish. He is about the same size as Carlos Rogers and Brandon Flowers. The Washington product also utilizes the build to the best of his ability. He bullies receivers down the field and on the outside.
Physicality: Likely the most physical cornerback in the entire draft, Trufant will get in the receivers face at the line, knock him down before the five-yard rule and continue to impose his will (legally) down the field. Receivers rarely ever get a clean break and route against Trufant.
Run Defense: True to his physical nature, Trufant isn't afraid to stick his nose in there against the run. While he may whiff on some tackles, the Washington product does an amazing job shedding blocks and making a play on the ball carrier.
Press Coverage: Again, this goes into his physical nature and mentality on the field. In this, he reminds me a bit of Charles Woodson; who isn't afraid of contact. While Trufant is smaller in stature than Woodson, he is just as physical. He will not struggle recovering from a busted bump either, as Trufant is solid with his technique. Which brings me to my next point......
Technique: Anticipation, reading the quarterback, understanding the route and making a play on the ball (all of which Trufant excels in), wouldn't be possible without plus-technique. He possesses fluid hips on the outside, will not get turned around mid route and has great reactionary speed. This is what separates Trufant from other possibly first-round corners.
Weaknesses
Man Coverage: A gambling mentality could be a major issue for Trufant in the NFL. He doesn't exactly pick the best times to make a play for a turnover, usually tending to do so without help over the top. This leads to some bigger plays down the field. He is better suited for press at the line.
Bottom Line
I don't see many holes in Trufant's game. He is probably the best all-around cornerback in the draft when it comes to press coverage. He will not struggle making the transition to the National Football League because of plus-technique on the outside. Trufant's ceiling is Charles Woodson, while his bottom is likely Brandon Flowers. Best fits are the San Francisco 49ers, San Diego Chargers and Minnesota Vikings.