Even in the midst of everything going on with free agency, there is still draft news pertaining to the Buffalo Bills. According to Justin Melo of the Draft Network, the Bills are scheduled to meet with former San Diego State defensive back Darren Hall.
Standing at 6 feet tall and 190 pounds, Hall has prototypical size for a cornerback in Sean McDermott’s defense. Even more than that though, Hall plays with a level of tenacity and physicality that is uncommon for the cornerback position.
As a freshman, Hall played safety for the Aztecs and this would most likely explain why he plays the game with so much physicality. He quickly transitioned to the cornerback position and within his first year at the position he already made significant strides in development. Then Hall really broke out in 2019 with an unbelievable year in terms of production.
In coverage, Hall had one interception and an eye-popping 16 passes defended in 2019. Hall isn’t just a coverage corner though, he is also very active in run support. In 2019, he had 49 total tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown. This isn’t to downplay his 2020 season in which he still had 6 passes defended and 3 interceptions with one returned for a touchdown.
It’s intriguing to think about where Hall would fit in best for the Bills because he played primarily on the outside for the Aztecs. However, with how instinctual he is in addition to his physicality in run support it seems like he could play in the slot. He actually reminds me a lot of Taron Johnson, but he could also be used in dime packages as the other slot corner which could allow him to play in the box a little.
It remains uncertain exactly where Hall would fit in the Buffalo Bills defense, but one thing is for sure, the kid can play. Bills fans should keep their eyes on this late round sleeper because if the Bills do draft him the coaching staff will find a role for him to thrive in.