Editor’s note: NESN.com will profile intriguing prospects in the days leading up to the 2016 NFL Draft. Next up: Virginia cornerback Maurice Canady.
Maurice Canady, cornerback, Virginia
6-foot-1, 193 pounds
Projected round: Third to fourth
2015 stats: 37 tackles, three tackles for loss, no interceptions, six passes defensed; five punt returns for 126 yards and one touchdown
Testing numbers: 4.49-second 40-yard dash, 1.59-second 10-yard split, 38-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 4-inch broad jump, 4.09-second short shuttle, 7.03-second three-cone drill, 17 bench-press reps at 225 pounds.
Strengths: Canady was a Senior Bowl practice standout, allowing just three receptions on 16 targets in one-on-one drills, according to Pro Football Focus. He shined in the slot as a senior, allowing 15 receptions on 24 targets for just 113 yards. Canady has ideal size and testing speed for an outside cornerback. His vertical leap and broad jump show off his explosion.
Weaknesses: Canady was frequently targeted as a senior, allowing 45 catches on 71 targets for 442 yards with four touchdowns and a 99.6 pass rating against. Despite running a 4.49-second 40-yard dash, Canady doesn’t have great make-up speed, according to NFL.com, which also notes he’s “unable to find (the) ball frequently when beaten over the top.” Canady showed off better ball skills as a junior, when he had three interceptions and 12 passes defensed.
Patriots fit: Canady is one of the best cornerback fits in the draft based on testing numbers. He fits the Patriots’ standards with his height, weight, arm length, hand size, 40-yard dash, 10-yard split, bench press, vertical leap and short shuttle. His versatility also could appeal to New England.
Thumbnail photo via Amber Searls/USA TODAY Sports Images
