03/21/2012 - 03/20/12 NFL DRAFT SCOUT RISER: Aaron Corp, QB, Richmond: A USC transfer, Corp had a very up-and-down career at FCS-level Richmond with only average production, including a career TD-to-INT ratio of 20-to-17. However between the Combine and his pro day last Friday, his draft stock is on the rise. Corp, who measured in at 6-3?? and 215 pounds, posted positive numbers in drills with a 4.65 40-yard dash, 31.5" vertical leap, 4.30 short shuttle and 7.03 3-cone drill. But it was his performance throwing the ball that created some buzz. With nine NFL teams in attendance at Richmond's pro day, Corp's arm strength looked better than advertised with the footwork and quickness to maneuver well in the pocket and throw on the run. He also assured those in attendance that his 2010 season-ending knee injury was fully healed. Corp is still graded as a priority free agent by most teams, but it wouldn't be a huge shock to hear his name late on draft weekend because of his performance since the season ended. He projects as a developmental, third-string quarterback at the next level. - Dane Brugler, NFLDraftScout.com
A highly touted prep prospect, Corp originally signed with Southern Cal and actually beat out Matt Barkley for the starting job with the Trojans in 2009 before breaking his leg before the season. Once it became clear that USC was now in the capable hands of Barkley, Corp elected to transfer to Richmond, where he alternately impressed with his accuracy and disappointed with his inability to stay healthy and make quality decisions with the ball when pressured.
Corp has struggled with injuries throughout his career, missing time with the broken leg in 2009, a torn ACL that ended his first season with the Richmond Spiders after just five games and though he made it through the 2011 season largely unscathed, he also threw for just 2,682 passing yards and 17 touchdowns against 13 interceptions despite playing against a lower level of competition.
Possessing a lanky frame that has proven susceptible to injury, Corp hasn't yet played up to his hype. He possesses enough talent to earn a shot as a late-round or priority free agent but considering his struggles to stand out at the collegiate level, it is difficult to imagine the light suddenly coming on with the competition raising dramatically in the NFL.
Analysis
Positives: Prototypical height for the position with the frame to easily add another 15 pounds of muscle mass without a significant loss in quickness. Flashes good accuracy to all levels of the field and has the arm strength to make every requisite NFL throw. Has shown the football IQ to learn two offenses.
Negatives: Possesses a spindly build and has struggled with durability. Appears to have lost a step since sustaining a torn ACL in 2010, and though he has above average straight-line speed is only an average athlete overall for the position. Only average arm strength. Regressed as a senior, throwing off his back foot. Can be fooled by coverages and has shown a tendency to force the ball. Highly inconsistent. Will make one nice throw and follow it up with two poor ones. Didn't stand out despite playing against lower level competition the past two seasons.
--Dane Brugler
