After an impressive redshirt junior season at Florida State, Rhodes decided to skip his final year of eligibility and enter the NFL draft. eDraft (and the collective “experts” out there) have Rhodes currently ranked as the third-best cornerback available in this year’s draft. With his outstanding man coverage skills and first-round grade, it just goes to show how deep this year’s corner class really is. So, without further ado; let’s take a look at eDraft’s scouting report of this talented young corner.
| Ht | Wt | Class | Ranking | Projection |
| 6'1" | 210 | Junior | 29 | First Round |
Strengths
Press Coverage: Rhodes possesses top-tier press ability. He’s very physical with receivers and makes contact at the line of scrimmage. He also maintains disruptive contact throughout the play. You don’t see many receivers at the college level that play as tough and physical press coverage as Rhodes does.
Size: At 6’1” and 210 pounds, Rhodes has a big, strong frame for a cornerback, and uses it to his full potential in press coverage. He also has long arms (33 ¾”) that he uses to his full advantage when pushing receivers around.
Physical Ability: Despite his large, muscular frame; Rhodes possesses great speed and technique. He has no problem turning his hips and staying with receivers as they make quick cuts out of their routes - often keeping one hand/arm on the receiver throughout the route.
Weaknesses
Run Defense: Rhodes does a wonderful job of manhandling and disengaging blockers. His problem lies in his ability to read where a run play is going and to tackle the ball carrier. He often lunges with his shoulder far too soon and misses completely or lays an ineffective glancing blow instead.
Zone Coverage: While Rhodes excels in man coverage, his zone skills are near terrible. He has an awful time reading the quarterback and jumping on routes, as well as lining up as the nickel or against the slot receiver.
Bottom Line
Rhodes is one of the best press-coverage corners available in this year’s draft. He will be able to come in and shutdown opposing team’s outside receiver from day one. He will have big problems at the NFL level if he is asked to play zone coverage or defend the run; his bread and butter is abusing a team’s No. 1 receiver and shutting down half of the field.