Olaijah Griffin 2021 NFL Draft Profile

Olaijah Griffin enters the 2021 NFL Draft in a deep cornerback year. A former five-star recruit, Griffin played three years at USC before declaring for this year’s draft. He managed 13 pass defenses in the 22 games he played at USC. Griffin only managed one interception over these games though. In his final season, Griffin had 22 tackles in nine games as his playing time expanded. Griffin decided to forego his senior year and enter the 2021 NFL Draft.

Olaijah Griffin is an athletic man-cover corner mostly. He struggled in his time with USC in zone and off-coverage routes. Going to a team that plays mostly man-to-man coverage could allow Griffin to flourish if his health holds up. Griffin had multiple injuries over his collegiate career as well. Both his shoulders have had operations and his back has cost him several games in his career. Being only 176 pounds going into the NFL is not ideal for a guy with his injury history. Adding weight to help jam receivers on the line will be an immediate point for whatever team drafts Griffin.

Strengths

Impressive vertical leap and timing to high point passes;

Strong in man coverage;

Reaches top speed quickly;

Quick enough to stay with shifty receivers;

High pointing throws.

Weaknesses

Very lean at 176lbs;

4.5 top speed on slower side of cornerbacks;

Can get lost in zone coverage;

History of injuries;

Needs to improve his understanding of route trees.

Projection: Day 3, Rounds 5-6

Last Word on Olaijah Griffin

Olaijah Griffin comes out of college in a crowded year for cornerbacks. This likely hurts his chances of going off the board early in the draft. Griffin brings several strengths with him, albeit limited ones, to the NFL. He excelled playing on the line at USC. He will have to add weight or learn to jam receivers better to cover some of the bigger NFL receivers. Griffin’s cover skills and quickness to change direction will help his draft prospects. These along with his man-coverage could lead to him being a steal on day three of the NFL draft. Griffin could slide right in and make a difference as a number two or three corner in the 2021 NFL season.