Every NFL Draft features a handful of small-school prospects that rise up boards due to elite traits and upside. Charles Demmings may be one of the best examples in this year’s class. Demmings is one of my favorite prospects in the entire draft.
Charles Demmings NFL Draft Profile
Coming out of Stephen F. Austin State, Demmings combines size, speed, and explosiveness into one of the most intriguing cornerback profiles in the draft. While he remains relatively unknown to the general public, Demmings has long caught the attention of NFL scouting departments.
With elite athletic testing and strong ball skills, Demmings has the tools to become a high-upside outside cornerback at the next level.
Charles Demmings — Cornerback
• Height: 6’1”
• Weight: 193 lbs
• Arm Length: 32”
• 40-Yard Dash: 4.41
• Vertical Jump: 42 inches
• Broad Jump: 11’0”
• School: Stephen F. Austin State (2021–2025)
• Career Interceptions: 9
• 2024 Second-Team All-Southland Conference
• 2025 First-Team All-Southland Conference
• 9.97 Relative Athletic Score (RAS)
College Career Overview
Charles Demmings developed into one of the top defensive backs in the Southland Conference during his time at Stephen F. Austin State. His combination of size and elite athleticism allowed him to consistently match up with opposing top receivers.
Demmings recorded 9 career interceptions, showcasing his natural ball skills and ability to create turnovers. His performance steadily improved, culminating in First-Team All-Southland Conference honors in 2025.
Despite playing at a smaller program, Demmings consistently flashed NFL-caliber traits, particularly in man coverage situations where his athleticism and length allowed him to mirror receivers effectively.
Strengths
Elite Athletic Profile
Demmings tested as one of the top athletes at the cornerback position. His 4.41 speed, 42-inch vertical, and 11-foot broad jump demonstrate rare explosiveness.
Ideal Size for Outside Corner
At 6’1” with 32-inch arms, Demmings possesses ideal length and size to match up with NFL receivers.
Press-Man Coverage Ability
Demmings thrives in press-man coverage. His length and athleticism allow him to disrupt receivers at the line and stay attached throughout routes.
Elite Recovery Speed
Demmings’ speed allows him to recover quickly when beaten. His ability to erase separation is one of his strongest traits.
Ball Skills
Demmings tracks the ball exceptionally well downfield and high-points throws effectively. His 9 career interceptions highlight his playmaking ability.
Smooth Hip Transitions
Demmings displays smooth hips in his backpedal and transitions well when changing direction.
Burst Breaking on the Ball
Demmings closes quickly on throws, using his burst to eliminate throwing windows.
Natural Mirror Ability
Shows strong ability to mirror receivers in man coverage with long strides and reactive movement.
Areas for Improvement
Play Strength
Demmings’ play strength is below average, which may cause issues against physical receivers.
Zone Coverage Recognition
Demmings shows average zone awareness and will need to improve recognition at the next level.
Run Support
Demmings is inconsistent as a tackler and can make “business decisions” in run support.
Press Coverage Patience
Demmings can become impatient in press coverage, occasionally allowing receivers to gain early leverage.
Hesitation at the Top of the Drop
Occasional hesitation at the top of his drop can create small separation windows.
Small School Competition
The jump in competition from Stephen F. Austin State to the NFL will be significant.
NFL Projection
Charles Demmings projects as a developmental outside cornerback with starting upside. His elite athleticism and man coverage ability give him strong developmental traits.
Demmings fits best in press-man heavy defensive schemes where his athleticism and length can be maximized. With improved strength and refinement, he could develop into a quality starter.
Pro Comparison
• Ceiling: Sean Murphy-Bunting
• Floor: Ahkello Witherspoon
Demmings’ athleticism, length, and flashes in man coverage mirror players like Sean Murphy-Bunting. Ahkello Witherspoon represents a realistic floor as a long, athletic corner with inconsistent physicality.
Final Scouting Report
Charles Demmings is one of the most intriguing small-school prospects in this draft class. His elite athleticism, size, and ball skills give him significant upside at the next level.
While Demmings still needs refinement in zone coverage, strength, and tackling, his physical tools provide a strong developmental foundation.
For teams looking for a high-upside outside cornerback, Charles Demmings could become one of the best value picks on Day 2.
