Games Watched: Appalachian State (2021), South Alabama (2021) Texas (2021)
Best Game: App State (2021)
Worst Game: N/A
Man Coverage: Patient at the LOS. Forces the WR to declare his route. Uses his hands but doesn’t re-route much. Turns to run well, stays in phase through the rep. Has experience in Cover 1 as well as Cover 5 playing man underneath.
Zone Coverage: Drops into deep third coverage with a side saddle technique in Cover 3. Keeps eyes on the QB, but doesn’t lose contact with the WR. Is disciplined with his eyes and assignment sound.
Reaction/Recovery: Quick reactions, especially with the ball in the air. Reacts quickly to players leaving and entering his space in zone coverage. Doesn’t panic when out of phase.
Long Speed: Long strider. Carries vertical well. Very good straight line speed. Reaches top speed fairly quickly.
Ball Skills: Strong ball skills. Highly disruptive player at the catch point. Long arms allow him to effectively play through the hands of the WR.
Run Support: Large frame at 6’2 212 helps in the run game. Willing tackler. Can fight through blocks on screens and run plays toward him.
COD Ability: Has some hip fluidity. COD isn’t dynamic due to long limbs. Could have trouble with smaller players when his movement is tested laterally. Does transition well when turning to run vertically.
Awareness: Can ID routes. Doesn’t take the bait on fakes. Doesn’t bite on underneath routes when playing with deep responsibility.
Tackling: When he wraps up and tackles with proper technique, he can be a stopper. Has reps where he only throws an ineffective shoulder into players.
Physicality/Toughness: Doesn’t shy away from contact. Willing tackler. Isn’t an overly aggressive player.
Summary: Mekhi Garner is a tall, long CB with strong PBU ability. He runs well enough to carry routes vertically, and has the size to be a factor against the run. Further development with footwork and lateral movements will greatly improve his game.
Grade: 73/100
Report Author: E.J Holt ACC Area Scout for Blue Chip Scouting
Twitter: @EJHolt_Draft