Heading into this season, there was thought that Ohio State cornerback Shaun Wade had a real shot at being a top fifteen to twenty pick in the upcoming NFL draft. In 2019, Wade excelled as a slot corner and would become the number one outside corner in 2020. Excitement for what Wade could be was high.
Then the season unfolded and Wade wasn’t bad, he just wasn’t what everyone thought he would be. He struggled in man coverage as he would lose himself in transitions at times and get sloppy mirroring the receiver. This led to some big plays or open passes. He had issues staying with receivers as they would break and change speeds, often bailing on coverage.
However, when Wade was thrown into a zone responsibility he showed more of what people wanted him to be. Everyone knows he has solid ball skills and has made some really impressive plays during his time at Ohio State. Keeping plays in front of him helped with breaking on the ball or making a solid tackle — strengths of his.
Wade may be a better slot corner in the NFL in the long run where he can use his athleticism better and rely on the help over the top. Placing him on an island may not be in the cards right now. However, Wade has the intelligence and moxie to work on it and development.
Wade has slipped down draft boards and what was once thought to be at the very least a first-round grade, is now somewhere between a very late second to a middle of the third-round pick. Returning to Ohio State may help his draft stock in the long run. He needs to prove he can take on the responsibilities of an outside corner, and another year will help.
Wade was asked about his status recently.
“I’ve got to talk to my parents,” Wade said. “It is upsetting that we got here and we just didn’t accomplish the goal. And that’s just been my goal, winning a national championship and winning big games like this. I’ll just go back with my parents, go talk to them and go from there.”
He can still return for his senior year and it may be the best thing for him in regards to the draft. Wade may decide it is best for him, and his family, to try his luck in the NFL. He may decide to return for a year to work on his game and try to win a national championship. Whatever Wade decides to do, we wish him the best and hope he succeeds.
And, as we know more, we’ll be sure to bring it to you.