Scouting Adarius Pickett, cornerback recruit

What makes cornerback recruit Adarius Pickett so good?

By Derrell Warren Jul 31, 2013, 3:15pm EDT

Adarius Pickett is one of the top cornerback recruits nationally. Out of El Cerrito (Calif.), he stands 5'11 and weighs in at 175 pounds. As of late July, he is uncommitted but holds more than 20 scholarship offers. He is rated as the 15th-best cornerback nationally by an average of the four major services, a four-star and the 12th-best player in California.

Derrell Warren, West Coast Recruiting Analyst:

Pickett may not have ideal size, but he carries a strong frame that could hold up to 10 or more pounds of additional weight. In addition, he is rangier than usual for a player of his height.

Pickett has a strong-looking frame and great length for his size. At this stage in his development he seems most comfortable lining up in press-man. That said, he doesn't often get his hands on the receiver, so development of his jamming technique is needed in order to maximize his effectiveness in press-man situations.

In coverage, Pickett displays good reactive quickness. He has the ability to not only re-direct in space but can click and close. He flashes the necessary traits to function well within zone concepts considering driving on the ball is indeed one of his primary strengths.

In terms of defending vertical routes, Pickett carries above average speed but isn't necessarily a burner. However, he tracks the ball well and is a springy athlete who can go up the air to make plays. He has a good understanding of angles and how to cut off routes. He is aggressive supporting the run and is an authoritative tackler for his position.

Pickett is one of the best defensive back prospects on the West Coast and carries the upside to be a multi-year starter.