William Middleton SELECTED BY: Falcons Round 5 (2)

SI Grade 2.71 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Three-year starter awarded All-America and all-Conference honors last season. Posted career numbers of 95/4/9 as a senior when he also added 8.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. Junior numbers included 53/3/6. Accomplished kick returner who averaged 23.1 yards on 25 returns as a sophomore, bringing one back for a score.

POSITIVES: Adequately sized cornerback with potential in dime packages. Quick flipping his hips off the line, displays a sense of timing, and has a solid burst to the ball out of his break. Possesses a good burst of closing speed, works hard to break up the pass or defend the run. Plays heads-up football, shows a sense of timing, and works well with safeties.

NEGATIVES: Prefers to side shuffle down the field rather than backpedal. Marginal top end speed and struggles staying downfield with fast opponents.

ANALYSIS: Middleton is an aggressive corner who works hard to get involved in the action. Although his physical skills are nothing extraordinary, Middleton is a solid football player with a real chance to make it as a team?s eighth defensive back.

PROJECTION: Free Agent