Cornerback Nate Wiggins Compares to Eagles’ Darius Slay

Clemson defensive back Nate Wiggins is a young and promising athlete who has all of the tools to be productive at the next level. The cornerback had a breakout campaign in 2022, putting up 12 PBUs (pass breakups) and one interception during his sophomore season. Wiggins was a highly recruited prospect, acquiring four stars by both ESPN and 247 Sports.

However, evaluating his film, Wiggins possesses some concerning traits that should be discussed.

2023 Review:

Wiggins didn’t put up the same numbers compared to 2022, but that was likely due to an ankle injury that caused him to miss some playing time. He racked up 28 tackles, two forced fumbles, two interceptions, and Six PBUs. He displayed a lockdown performance against first-round NFL Draft prospect, Keon Coleman. His potential is intriguing but his wow factor is truly worrying.

Overview: Nate Wiggins

6-foot-2, 185 pounds

40 Time: 4.55 (nfldraftbuzz.com)

2022 stats: 30 tackles, 11 PBUs and 1 INT

Level of Competition: Medium

Colton Edwards Grade: Second-Round

2022 Film Evaluated: Florida State and North Carolina

2023 Film Evaluated: Duke, Florida State, Miami and North Carolina

2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report:

The Tiger’s best trait is that he excels in man coverage at any level. Has no fear in his effort of making a tackle in open space. Displays good fluidity, speed, and quick feet to defend slot receivers in man coverage. Long and lean frame with good efficiency of motion. Shows solid route recognition. Has the ability to transition out of his backpedal and make a play on the ball whether it’s a pass breakup or interception. Has a long-stride and speed combination to run vertically with deep threats and minimize separation. He has disciplined footwork in press-man while staying square. As stated before, his potential is undoubtedly note-worthy.

Weaknesses: Wiggins is way too often outmuscled by the opposing wide receiver and demonstrates the inability to get off blocks in run support. The cornerback is also suspect on catch-run plays such as the screen game or RPOs (run-pass option). Doesn’t display much physicality as a tackler which is very concerning at the next level and he uses unnatural angles while moving downhill as a run defender. He plays tall at the stem of routes at times, inhibiting his follow and redirection ability. Also has inconsistency in putting himself in the right position to make a play on the ball.

Summary:

Wiggins should be an early day two selection which is what I like to call a “safety net.” This means coaches aren’t reaching too early in the first round, allowing themselves to be more comfortable to put more into the potential of the player. He’s a lean athlete with a great mix of quickness, closing speed, fluidity, and length. It allows him to be a dynamic playmaker in the backend. Displays some of the best coverage eyes, reaction speed, and route recognition in the class. 

Who will he remind us of?

Pro Comparison: Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay

Colton just graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science at the United States Sports Academy. He has previous coaching experience as a former offense and defensive line coach at a local high school. While performing those duties, he also worked at PFF( Pro Football Focus) for a brief moment of time. He currently develops scouting reports here at firstroundmock.com. His aspirations are to become an NFL Scout/GM in the future.