Raiders Draft Prospect: CB Andru Phillips, Kentucky
The Las Vegas Raiders are ready for the next generation of players to join their team through the 2024 NFL Draft.
The Raiders are beginning a new era in Las Vegas under Coach Antonio Pierce and General Manager Tom Telesco, and the new players they add will be the foundation of their team.
This new regime is looking for players who fit the culture they want to continue to build. Pierce did an excellent job establishing that culture, one built on unrelenting competitiveness and aggressive defense.
One player who could fit that culture is Kentucky cornerback Andru Phillips. The former Wildcat defensive back plays with the competitive edge that Pierce would covet.
Phillips finished his collegiate career with 82 total tackles, three tackles for loss, and 10 passes defended. He did not record an interception or forced fumble.
There might not be a more competitive cornerback than Kentucky's Andru Phillips in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports
Phillips will play for the American Team in the Reese’s Senior Bowl later today. He turned some heads during practices throughout the week with impressive pass breakups against some of the top receivers in the draft class.
Phillips stands at 5-foot-10 and weighs 191 pounds, but he plays much bigger than his measurements. He is one of the most athletic corners in the draft, with great speed and agility to close on receivers. He has quick feet and fluid hips, which should translate to the next level.
While he is small, Phillips plays hard on every snap, and while he is an inconsistent tackler, he fights through blocks in the run game to try to make a play. Even if he doesn’t have the physical advantage, he will never take a play off.
According to Pro Football Focus, Phillips was targeted 58 times and allowed 39 catches for 438 yards and four touchdowns. Phillips thrives in man coverage, and his competitiveness should translate as well.
As mentioned, Phillips is an inconsistent tackler, and his size is not doing him any favors. He may struggle against the league’s bigger receivers.
Phillips is projected to be a day-three selection in the draft but could improve his stock with a good performance in the Senior Bowl.
If Pierce and the Raiders can overlook his physical limitations and trust in his competitiveness, Phillips could make a good fit in the Silver and Black.
The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.
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