Johnny Patrick Scouting Report

Johnny Patrick has gone largely unnoticed during his collegiate career at Louisville. Outside of the Big East, most college football fans have never heard his name. However, he is one of the better cornerbacks in this class. As a true freshman in 2007, Patrick fought his way into a starting role and ended up totaling 19 tackles. In his first of four starts on the year, Patrick tallied his first career interception. Heading into 2008, Patrick was obviously going to be one of the starters at a corner spot and he has not given up that role since. He increased his tackle total to 50 as a sophomore -- ranking third on the team --, but failed to pick off any passes.

As an upperclassman Patrick has made more of a mark on the program. In 2009 he increased his tackle total to 53 and picked off two passes. Through 11 games in 2010, Patrick already has 45 tackles and three interceptions. Just as importantly, Patrick has shut down most opposing receivers and has eight pass break-ups and 11 passes defended on the season.

Patrick is no Prince Amukamara or Patrick Peterson, but he can work his way into the mix for the fight to be the third best cornerback in this class. At 5-11 and 190 pounds, Patrick has enough size to be a great corner in the NFL. He can also run a 40 in about 4.45 seconds and once scouts get a good look at him after the season, Patrick should see his stock increase to the second or third round area.

1/25 Update: Patrick's stock is already rising quickly and he has more room to move up once he starts working out for teams. Patrick had his best game in a must win against Rutgers. His two interceptions in that contest clinched a bowl berth for Louisville. On the season Patrick ended up recording 49 tackles, 6.5 tackles-for-loss, five interceptions, 12 pass break-ups and 17 passes defended. Patrick has already snuck into the second round according to many pundits, but he could move up even further with some solid workouts.

3/27 Update: Patrick has been hovering around the late second round to early third round range. After missing the Senior Bowl with an injury, Patrick had a decent showing at the NFL combine. He needed to prove that he has the skills to develop into a solid corner since he is more raw and inexperienced than most corners in this class. He proved to be a good athlete, but ran a slower 40-yard-dash than expected. He made up for that by running much better at Louisville's pro day, but that may not be enough to turn him into a safe second round selection.