The Colts are in desperate need for depth at the Cornerback position, and a guy who could get a look in some of the later rounds is Mike Harris from Florida State. Known as a big hitter, Harris is a guy who isn't afraid to line up in the slot and cover a guy over the middle of the field, even though he isn't the biggest guy (5'10"). He can also lay the wood too.
Harris came to Florida State via the Junior College route, so he only played on the big stage in Tallahassee for two seasons. He played in 26 of 27 games in those two seasons, and racked up 99 tackles, including 58 last season in 14 games. He also had 14 pass break-ups and five interceptions in his career, only one of which happened last year against Florida, an 89 yard return, but was knocked out at the 4 yard line. He also recorded his only sack against NC State, something he brought up in his interview at the Combine. He did say he liked the interception better than the sack, though.
With so many positions in desperate need of upgrades, I think cornerback is one that will get a longer look in the 4-7 rounds, which is where Harris will certainly be drafted. He's a guy who could be a 3rd or 4th CB early on in his career, and my guess would be he'd play a role similar to what Marlin Jackson played. He's someone who isn't afraid to tackle a guy, which I'm thinking Head Coach Chuck Pagano will like. I don't think it's a big deal that he only played two years at FSU either, as he will have time to learn being a later round guy.
After the jump we have what some draft sites have to say about Harris, as well as all his measurements from the Combine and the audio from his media time.
Isn't afraid to be physical off the line and press. However, has a tendency to hop toward his target off the snap, isn't real balanced or technically sound with his hand placement when trying to re-route...Looks like a physical slot guy to me who can play in both man and zone concepts, and will tackle the football.
Good-sized, smooth-muscled, quietly confident, ascending cornerback who earned his way onto the field amidst a talented secondary. Average explosiveness, range and recovery burst limits his ceiling, but is football-smart and versatile to help in a nickel package.
Harris started at corner for only one year for Florida State after rotating in nickel packages. He is a transfer from El Camino Community College and has great speed to excel at the position at the next level. He has a ton of experience covering in the slot and should contribute early there at the next level.
Video Highlights via seminoles.com
Combine Measurements:
Height | Weight | 40 Time | Bench | Vertical | Broad |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
5'10 3/8" | 181 | 4.68 |
N/A | 36" |
9'9" |
Combine Media Session (5:38)
Stew and I had a one-on-one with Harris for a few minutes before some other media members showed up, and he seemed like a guy who was ready to join a team, play a role on special teams, and learn how to play NFL CB. I like him as a late round guy.
For a complete list of prospects and profiles, check out our 2012 Draft Profiles Page.