32 for No. 32: This is the first in a series of looks at 32 prospects the Patriots may consider selecting with the 32nd overall pick at the 2015 NFL Draft.
Jalen Collins, CB, LSU
6-foot-1, 203 pounds
STATS
2014: 38 tackles, 10 passes defensed, 1 INT
2013: 22-2-0
2012: 30-8-2
SCOUTING REPORT
One of the most physically gifted corners in this year's draft, Collins has the height, weight and athleticism to compete at the next level immediately. He ran a 4.48-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, and posted one of the best three-cone drills among players at his position (6.77 seconds). His technique could use some polishing, but he has the raw tools that should make him a highly sought-after player in a league where big, physical corners are becoming more and more desirable.
THE GOOD
Looking for a corner who can thrive in press coverage with his strength at the line of scrimmage? How about someone who can work in zone, using his instincts and long arms to get into passing lanes? Collins' physical traits indicate that with some coaching, he'll eventually have the ability to do both. Plus, he's a willing tackler in the running game.
THE BAD
For all of his impressive measurables, Collins is lacking in game experience. He started in just 10 contests for coach Les Miles, making him somewhat of an unrefined product. Foot surgery in March will slow his offseason workouts, but he is expected to be healthy in time for minicamp this spring.
PATRIOT FRIENDLY?
With both Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner out of the picture, the Patriots cornerback group is rife with relatively unproven talents and free-agent signings looking for fresh starts. Collins would give them a player who could help solidify their secondary going forward if he lives up to his potential. With some coaching, he could fit in Bill Belichick and Matt Patricia's variable schemes with an ability to deftly switch from man to zone and back. There are a handful of defensive backs in this year's class seen as first-round talents. Michigan State's Trey Waynes and Washington's Marcus Peters will likely be gone by pick No. 32, and Collins could be, too. But if Collins falls to the Patriots, the reigning champs could end up with the most physically-talented of the bunch -- new blood for a position in the middle of an overhaul.
New England Patriots
MOCKED UP
Daniel Jeremiah, NFL.com - No. 24, Arizona
Charley Casserley, NFL.com - No. 31, New Orleans
Bucky Brooks, NFL.com - No. 20, Philadelphia
Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN.com - No. 20, Philadelphia
Todd McShay, ESPN.com - No. 22, Pittsburgh
Pete Prisco, CBSSports.com - No. 18, Kansas City
Matt Miller, BleacherReport.com - No. 32, Patriots