Mykael Wright NFL Draft Overview
Position: Cornerback
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 173 pounds
School: Oregon
Mykael Wright 2022 NFL Draft Profile
A former four-star recruit out of Lancaster, California, Mykael Wright made an impact right away for the Oregon Ducks. Wright, as a true freshman in 2019, earned playing time early and often. He appeared in each of the Ducks’ 11 games as part of their cornerback rotation. Wright finished his first year of college ball with 21 tackles, two for loss, an interception, and four passes defended. He made his presence known on special teams, however. On the year, Wright turned 10 returns into 380 yards and two touchdowns. His 2020 season was about the same, just over seven games. He ended up with 27 tackles with nine passes defended.
Wright got his chance to show what he can do in 2021 and made the most of his opportunity. On the year, he finished with 65 tackles, four for loss, four passes defended, an interception, and a forced fumble. His most productive game as a corner was in a massive win over Ohio State where he finished with 10 tackles, a career-high. He exhibited plenty of athleticism and added 12 kick returns for an average of 27.7 yards.
Strengths
- Not afraid to be very physical
- Special teams versatility
- Fluid in coverage
- Former receiver; has decent ball skills
- Can read the quarterback’s eyes, doesn’t get caught staring
- Attacks the ball in the air as if the pass was intended for him
- Can recognize route concepts and adjust
Weaknesses
- 2.97 RAS
- Small frame
- When beat, doesn’t get his head around to find the ball
- Does not possess great speed
- Style of play will result in numerous penalties (flagged 11 times at Oregon)
- Does not wrap up and relies on his body for tackles in space
- Might be reliant on scheme fit in order to succeed
- Not overly strong at man coverage
NFL Comparison: Damon Arnette
Teams With a Need at Position: San Francisco 49ers, Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks, Houston Texans, Buffalo Bills, New York Jets, New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers, Cincinnati Bengals, Minnesota Vikings,
Projection: Fifth round
Bottom Line on Mykael Wright
If it weren’t for his kick returning abilities, Wright would likely be much further down on NFL team’s draft boards. His testing earned him a 2.97 RAS. On the field, however, he tends to play above what that score indicates. Wright is a zone coverage specialist. He has the ability to watch the quarterback and know what he is wanting to do. And he does not have a tendency to drift or get caught staring. Wright is often overlooked because of his size. However, he plays with a physicality that demands respect.
The drawback for Wright is his lack of speed and his ability to be a bit of a liability in man coverage. When he gets burnt, he does not get his head around and often just plays the receiver instead of the ball. When he is able to see the ball, he can attack the catch point, however. There will be plenty of corners taken in this year’s draft and Wright will be taken on day three. An NFL team will take advantage of his special teams versatility while they develop him into their system.
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