There’s an almost universal consensus that LSU cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. will be a first-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft next month, likely as one of the first two cornerbacks off the board. However, there’s considerably more debate regarding where exactly he will land.
Stingley didn’t participate in drills at the NFL Scouting Combine as he recovers from a Lisfranc fracture, but he expects to be a full participant in LSU’s pro day in a few weeks.
The latest mock draft from USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis is on the more optimistic side. It shows Stingley heading to the Minnesota Vikings with the 12th pick, just a few behind Cincinnati’s Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner, who is projected to go at seventh overall.
Here’s what Davis said about Stingley’s projection to Minnesota.
His talents as a cover man are undeniable and were apparent for the 2019 national champions, for whom he had six interceptions, earning All-American honors for his efforts. But Lisfranc surgery limited him to three games in 2021 – a year after he was slowed by ankle issues – and prevented him from working out in Indy. But if Stingley performs well at LSU’s pro day on April 6, he could vault himself back into consideration as a top-five option, possibly ahead of Gardner. Either would be an asset to a Minnesota defense that has struggled in coverage lately and has not re-signed veteran CBs Patrick Peterson or Mackensie Alexander in free agency.
The Vikings are a commonly projected landing spot for Stingley, who burst onto the scene as a true freshman. He had 15 pass breakups to go with his six interceptions that season, but injuries have limited him to just 10 appearances over the last two seasons.
Still, he’s an incredibly talented cover corner with an elite skillset, and if he can stay healthy, someone will be landing a major contributor at the next level.
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