Christian Gonzalez Scouting Report

By: Michael Higgins

(Image Courtesy of Godofredo A. Vázquez)

School: University of Oregon (Sophomore)

Position: CB

HT: 6’2

WT: 200 lbs

Sideline Prospect Ranking: #11

Christian Gonzalez is an athletic corner with eye-popping length and size. At the cornerback position. I always look for guys who have at least 31.5 inch arms, expect Gonzalez to measure in at around 33 inches come the Combine. His greatest strength is his man coverage ability. His loose hips and quick feet allow him to stay connected to the receiver throughout the entire route. These features also provide him with more than adequate lateral quickness and change-of-direction ability. Gonzalez, as already stated, is great at staying with receivers and will always mirror the opposing team’s WR1 for the entirety of the game. Some cornerbacks stay on the one side of the field that they are most comfortable with, Gonzalez is comfortable everywhere and simply sticks with the other team’s best receiver. The 3rd-year corner can stick with speed threats and stick with them downfield, as well. His ability to turn his hips, use his big frame and turn on the jets means chasing these faster receivers won’t be an issue. His ball skills are also worth mentioning. He has a unique ability to read the quarterback’s eyes, read route concepts, and jump in to make a play when given even the slightest of opportunities. This also leads to big plays, in his first and only season at Oregon, he had 4 interceptions and 4 passes defended. Not only is Gonzalez good at man coverage, but he is also a solid run defender. His ability to read eyes and predict what the offense is doing contributes to his ability to sprint to the ball carrier and make a tackle. Gonzalez is a willing tackler who, due to his size and physicality, can make some big hits.

When it comes to areas that need work in Gonzalez’s game, he needs to put on some muscle to be successful at the next level. While he is tall and has length, he is a bit lean and could be susceptible to getting pushed around or bullied by bigger wide receivers. Lastly, he needs to improve his instincts in zone coverage, as he is susceptible to giving up small chunk plays when not in press man coverage.

Christian Gonzalez is the most consistent cornerback with the highest floor in this draft class. He has great mechanics and coverage ability. His speed allows him to keep up with the fastest wide receivers in the game. When Gonzalez puts on a bit more muscle, he will be an elite playmaking cornerback.

Scheme Fit: Press Man Coverage

Ideal Role: Starting Boundary Cornerback

Best Team Fits: DET, NE, KC

Player Comparison: Marshon Lattimore

Player Grade: 88.8