Buffalo Bills Combine Watch: Late-round prospects to keep an eye on
Darius Phillips (CB) Western Michigan, Senior
5-foot-10, 190 pounds; Draft projection: 4th-6th round
Phillips is not your typical late round corner prospect. He started his career at Western Michigan as a WR/Returner and it wasn’t until his sophomore year he was converted to the defensive side of the ball.
During his time in the MAC, he terrorized opposing coaching staffs with his ability to break on routes and beat the receiver to the ball. This is evident by his 12 interceptions since he made the transition to cornerback.
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Phillips is at his most dangerous when he is a ball carrier. He has a total of 11 touchdown returns (five interception return and six combined punt/kick returns).
Due to his size and quickness, he would be best suited as a nickel corner. His explosive hips and smooth footwork will allow him to keep up with speedy slot receivers on crossing routes. He has enough strength to jam at the line to throw off timing routes.
Darius Phillips will be a prospect that thrives in the on-field drills at the combine.
He would be a great value pick for the Bills if they decide to take a chance on him. He would match up well with the Jarvis Landry/Julian Edelman-type receivers the Bills have to play twice a year.
Drafting Phillips would solve two roster issues the Bills currently have. They would get an athletic nickel corner and they would gain a potential gamebreaker as a return man.