1. Donte Deayon – CB, Boise State Broncos
Height: 5 feet 9 inches | Weight: 155 pounds
In 40 games at Boise State, Deayon had 150 combined tackles (7.5 for loss), 15 interceptions, and 25 passes defended.
NFL Draft analyst Chad Reuter wrote the following about the two-time second-team All-Mountain West pick Deayon:
"“Yes, he’s listed at 5-9 and 150 pounds. But anyone who has seen Deayon play knows he would take on any receiver at any time, tackling them in the open field or out-leaping them for jump balls downfield… [S]pecial teams will be his ticket to an NFL playing field until his coaches trust him against pro receivers on an every-down basis.”"
Tony Pauline relayed these notes from Deayon’s Pro Day workout:
"“Deayon, who was not even rated by scouts prior to the season, had a very good day. Deayon is small… but tested well, jumping 37 inches in the vertical jump and 10 feet 7 inches in the broad. He also completed 12 reps on the bench before running 40 times which ranged from 4.42 to 4.47. He looked terrific in position drills. A productive punt returner for Boise, he was not asked to field punts afterwards. Deayon is drawing interest from the Indianapolis Colts and Cleveland Browns, and is taking an official visit to the New York Giants facilities.”"
David Holmes of NFLMocks had this to say about the two-time preseason Jim Thorpe Award Candidate in his scouting report:
"“Donte Deayon is a playmaker, and has the fearless attitude and swagger you like to see in your cornerbacks. He truly believes he can line up with anyone and win the battle one on one. For him to have a chance at success he will have to add some weight to be able to withstand the punishment of the NFL. He will more than likely start his career in the NFL as a contributor on special teams as both a gunner and a returner. Donte Deayon has the talent needed for an NFL team to take a chance on him, and I expect he will be selected on Day 3 likely in the 5th or 6th round of the NFL draft.”"
Though Big Blue is set with Dwayne Harris as the primary return specialist, the G-Men did add another returner in former Tampa Bay Bucs running back Bobby Rainey. The Giants staff could be able to pack on some pounds to Donte’s frame and develop him into a nice slot corner who could field punts later down the road when Harris departs.
Next: RUNNING WILDS