From now until the 2019 NFL Draft takes place, we hope to showcase as many prospects as possible and examine both their strengths and weaknesses. Most of these profiles will feature individuals that the Pittsburgh Steelers are likely to have an interest in, while a few others will be top-ranked players. If there is a player you would like us to analyze, let us know in the comments below.
#21 Juan Thornhill/S/6’0 202 lbs
The Good:
- Experience playing in the box and deep
- Smooth hips, get hips turned around fast in coverage
- Good downhill speed
- Takes good routes to the football
- Has experience playing cornerback and in the slot
- Great ball skills
- Closes on routes quickly
- Diagnoses routes efficiently
- Adequate size
The Bad:
- Tackling technique needs work
- Too often uses himself as a human missile, rather than wrapping up
- Does not have the speed to run vertically with receivers in man coverage
- Lacks natural athleticism
- Poor footwork and athleticism as a cornerback
Bio:
- 2018: 98 tackles, 6 interceptions, 7 pass defenses
- Career: 208 tackles, 13 interceptions, 26 pass defenses
- 2018 AP All-ACC first team
- Six interceptions in 2019 were third most in the nation
- Set Virginia record for most interception return yards (141) in a season during 2018
- 2019 Senior Bowl invite
Tape Breakdown:
Virginia safety Juan Thornhill is a jack of all trades.