Desmond Trufant, CB

04/25/2013 - DANE BRUGLER'S FINAL 2013 DRAFT BOARD: 28. CB Desmond Trufant, Washington (6-0, 190, 4SR)...There is no question Trufant has the natural fluidity and athleticism to start at the next level, but his technique needs refinement to improve his consistency. - Dane Brugler, NFLDraftScout.com

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Many prospects have NFL role models and Trufant isn't any different. But most prospects don't have the luxury of two older brothers already playing in the league to help guide them through the process. Marcus Trufant was a first round pick in 2003 and is still a contributing member of the Seattle Seahawks and Isaiah Trufant cut his teeth in the AFL and UFL before catching on with the Jets the last two years. Desmond is the little brother, but he also might be the best Trufant in the NFL next season.

A four-year starter, Trufant earned his way onto the field as a true freshman in 2009 and showed steady progression over his career. He set career-bests in 2011 as a junior with a pair of interceptions and 16 passes defended, but decided to return for his senior year. Although his senior stats weren't as impressive (1 interception, 9 passes defended), teams mostly stayed away from Trufant's side of the field as he was easily the top defender on the Huskies' roster. While he needs to refine his technique and is far from a polished product, there is no question he has the fluidity and competitiveness to fight for a spot in the first round.

Strengths: Athletic with fluid footwork, flashing the foot agility to drive quickly on the play. Looks natural in space, staying balanced with the hips and transition skills to redirect in any direction. Physical and fights for the ball when it's in the air, showing an excellent competitive nature. Doesn't shy from contact and will get his nose dirty in run support. Very good job tracking and highpointing with a top vertical to get his hands on the ball. Good bloodlines and understands the NFL process. Good experience as a four-year starter (47 career starts), spending time both inside and outside and in both man and zone coverage.

Weaknesses: Narrow torso, lean muscle tone and only average length. Opens his hips too early to protect against speed and needs to stay under control in his movements. Streaky technique once the ball in snapped and reverts to bad habits, relying on his natural athleticism over fundamentals. Lacks elite top-end speed and can be beat vertically. Inconsistent tackling technique, hitting too high and lacking the strength to consistently finish. Plays close to the line of scrimmage but doesn't make much contact and needs to improve his body position downfield. Too much of a grabber. Nagging hamstring injury late in 2012.

--Rob Rang