2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Josh Newton (CB – TCU)

FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at TCU cornerback Josh Newton.

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2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Josh Newton

Josh Newton (CB – TCU)

6’0″ – 190 lbs.

Background:

Louisiana native who originally attended UL-Monroe after playing receiver in high school. Redshirted the 2018 season and then converted to corner the following year, taking over a starting role immediately and allowing 28/47 passing (59.6%), for 434 yards and five touchdowns, breaking up one throw. Continued to experience some growing pains the next year (16/41, 351 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT, 6 PD), before a somewhat better 2021 (30/60, 492 yards, 4 TD, 2 INT, 7 PD). Transferred to TCU the following year and had a solid campaign (24/68, 307 yards, 5 TD, 3 INT, 9 PD). This past year, allowed 25/52 passing (48.1%) for 303 yards, one touchdown, one interception and six breakups.

Positives:

As experienced a cornerback prospect as you’ll likely see after starting for five years. Usually lines up on the left side of the defense, with a lot of different looks and more backpedaling than usual for a college corner. Also takes the occasional snap out of the slot. Fast, fluid mover with twitchy traits; overall flexibility is very good as well. Has clean footwork to match releases at the line. Transitions quickly out of his backpedal. Uses his hands very well to stay connected through the route, with some physicality to his game. Knows how to use the sideline to squeeze outside releases. Has loose hips. When his back is turned to the quarterback, gets his head around early to locate and competes aggressively at the catch point; on-ball production has been good for the past four seasons. Good leaper who can get up and contest fades and other jump-balls. Willing to come up and support the run, and does a pretty good job of working his way through congestion to the ball.

Negatives:

Overaged after spending six years in school. May need to add a bit of additional bulk/strength at the next level. Could play in-breaking routes like slants a bit flatter; has some float at the stem which opens him up to timing-based throws. Recovery speed isn’t quite elite. Can struggle to hold the point of attack when run at. Hasn’t been the most consistent tackler.

Summary:

An experienced cornerback with good technique and instincts, and who has the quickness and agility teams look for in the position, he represents a relatively safe choice for a defense that likes to play man coverage. Although he doesn’t have the strongest build, he plays with a good amount of physicality and offers solid ball skills as well. Will probably end up coming off the board sometime in the second round or so.

Projection: Round 2