Justin Layne, Michigan State
Lastly is perhaps one of the more athletic cornerback in this year’s draft class in Michigan State’s Justin Layne. A converted receiver, Layne has played on the defensive side of the ball for just two seasons for the Spartans before entering the 2019 NFL Draft.
Over his three seasons on the field at Michigan State, Layne tallied three interceptions and 24 pass break ups. He really burst onto the scene in 2018, however, recording a pick and a whopping 15 pass break ups as well as 72 total tackles, flashing the ability to wrap up in the open field.
At the combine, Layne measured in at over 6’1½ and 192 pounds with 33 inch arms. He proceeded to run a 4.5 flat 40 yard dash time and a sub-seven second 3-cone drill. On top of his impressive times, Layne jumped to the tune of 37.5 inches on his vertical jump and an astounding 11’2 on his broad jump.
The running joke of the offseason has been Mike Evans switching to the defensive side of the ball since his interception at the Pro Bowl. However, in Layne the Buccaneers could really have a cornerback with the ability to high point a football like a receiver with the 39th pick in the draft.