Eli Ricks, Quit the Hype

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Eli Ricks, a recent cornerback transfer from LSU to the University of Alabama, is being projected all over the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Ricks has barely seen the field and has struggled to cement a role in Alabama’s secondary, so far only appearing in week 1 vs Utah State for a limited number of snaps, so we will be looking at his LSU game film. 

What’s The Film Say About Eli Ricks’ Game?

Checking out Ricks’ 2021 campaign with LSU is far from 1st round. He played a lot of off-coverage and had some blown assignments while running zone, but seems much better in man coverages, showing a good ability to use the sideline to suffocate the outside receivers. Ricks usually does appear to have some sense around him while in zone and does a good job watching the backfield and quarterback. 

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Even though keeping his eyes on the backfield while in zone, he rarely gets involved in the run. Ricks’ tackling ability looks solid against wide-outs, but seems to struggle with bigger bodies and often chooses to just stay out of the way, or just gets stuck on a block from the head-up receiver.

Getting Bit By The Injury Bug

For the past few years, Ricks has struggled with injury and this is a large concern that immediately knocks him out of the first round in my mind. In October of 2021, Ricks underwent an MRI, which led to the announcement of a season-ending shoulder injury. Now Ricks begins his Alabama career with a back injury, keeping him from practicing this past August.

#7 Eli Ricks 6’2” 190lbs

Draft Grade: mid to late 3rd round

First-Round-Mock Big Board: TBD

Projected 1st round pick by 79.5% of the NFL Draft community as of 9/23/22 (nflmockdraftdatabase.com)

2021 Game Film Reviewed

LSU vs Miss St 2021

LSU vs Central Michigan 2021

LSU vs Auburn 2021

LSU vs UCLA 2021

Level of competition: High

 2021 stats: 11 tackles (9 solo),  1 Pass Defense, 1 Interception

2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report:

Lengthy boundary corner with good speed and decent ball skills. Plays a lot of off coverage and shows a weaker press/play strength. Decent in man coverage and average zone coverage abilities. Has shown to blow coverages and be a potential liability while on the field. Uses the sideline well versus vertical routes on the boundary. Keeps eyes on the quarterback and backfield while in zone. Nearly non-existent against the run and screen passes. Has injury concerns: shoulder (2021); back (2022). 

Skyler Meikrantz is an aspiring talent evaluator and draft analyst. He is also a very avid and passionate fan of the Indianapolis Colts. Follow him and First Round Mock on twitter: @MeikrantzSkyler @firstroundmock Remember to bookmark this page to continue to follow the scouting process and keep up with our big board.