Penn State has had a recent run of putting defensive backs in the NFL over the last five seasons, and the 2024 NFL draft will be no different. Cornerback [autotag]Kalen King[/autotag] is expected to be a relatively high pick despite a rough final season in Happy Valley, but another defensive back could be taken as early as late day 2. [autotag]Johnny Dixon[/autotag] has turned himself into a legit corner prospect after transferring from South Carolina in 2021. He finished his Penn State career with three interceptions and ten pass breakups, showing solid ball skills for a player who thrives at the line of scrimmage.
He does have his limitations, particularly his tackling (25.8% missed tackle rate according to PFF) and his arm length coming in under 30 inches at the Senior Bowl. For a corner that is known as a physical, press-man style player, that length could be a factor in determining his value.
A player that has struggled as of late in the NFL and has a similar profile to Dixon is Tennesee Titans corner Kristian Fulton. Fulton was billed as a physical, press corner coming out of LSU but measured just barely over 30 inches for his arm length. He, like Dixon, is a great athlete with quickness and long speed that helps him stay with receivers down the field.
Where Fulton has struggled so far in his career is his tackling and ability to manipulate receivers at the line of scrimmage. He too often loses leverage and it allows his opponents to create too much separation at the top of routes. His 2023 season was remarkably poor, allowing over 70% of passes to be completed in his direction and three touchdowns.
Dixon himself had a down year in 2023 after a very strong 2022, allowing 21 receptions on 31 targets as opposed to 14 on 35 in 2022. He also went from breaking up/intercepting nine passes in 2022 to just two in 2023. His athletic tools will still make him an early day 3 pick, but his profile certainly has concerns.