Atlanta Falcons: Scouting report on Florida corner back C.J. Henderson

The  Atlanta Falcons filled some holes in free agency this week. However, they also split up some other positions to fill those same holes. Admittedly, the Falcons problems are known in the secondary more than the trenches, and this draft class has many draftable corners that can do damage in our secondary.

Atlanta Falcons need to start looking at the corner prospects in this draft, some may say that Kristian Fulton from the Louisiana State University would be the best prospect after Jeffrey Okudah, but I believe Christopher C.J. Henderson from the University of Florida may fit better with the Falcons.

C.J. Henderson’s athleticism is off the charts with a 4.39 40 yard dash, 37.5 vertical jump, and a 10’7″ broad jump. Additionally, C.J. coverage skills are on some of the best in this class, Kyle Crabbs from the draft network has him being very fluid in both man and zone coverage.

"Man Cover Skills – Really like his stab at the LOS in press coverage and quickness to mirror over top of releases in press. His ability to flip and play turn and run coverage is top tier. Really like how he sits down on route breaks and mirrors effectively not just stationary but at full sprint downfield.Zone Cover Skills – Loves to hunt the football. Can be a bit liberal with his responsibilities, which is a double edged sword. Has netted some key ball production by peeling off of initial landmark but at times will get too greedy to drop off to mirror eyes of QBs and concede easy reception"

Admittedly, one of the main reasons I feel he would thrive in the Falcons defensive system is how fluid his feet and change of direction complement each other. Christopher’s hips are slippery which makes it easier for him to transition from one side to the next. As said by Kyle Crabbs.

"Feet/COD – Very, very fluid. Impressive quickness to his feet and ability to showcase needed quickness in transitions to drive down and challenge in front of his face. Effortless in efforts to get vertical and open his hips before driving out of linear drop to mirror the route.Flexibility – Oily hips are one of his best qualities. He’s super smooth to flip open and play with a lot of quickness and stay in phase. His body control to length his reach is very strong and showcases dynamic lower half to play and cut at steep angles as needed."

I really believe with the 16th pick the falcons should pick Christopher “CJ” Henderson to add to this secondary that needs a shot of adrenaline.