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Bryce Callahan, a 5-10 185-pound cornerback, was one of the top defenders in Conference USA. One of the best cover corners in the country, Callahan has the speed and the skills to play at the next level.
As a senior, Callahan had 44 tackles, including 4 for loss. He added two interceptions and a sack as well as a forced fumble on the season. His best two games were against Conference USA Champion Marshall and also against Fresno State in the Hawaii Bowl. Callahan had 6 tackles and an interception in each game.
Pros:
Callahan had a great Pro Day, where he impressed wsith his 40 yard dash and his vertical jump. You can read about his entire Pro Day here: Rice Pro Day
With that kind of athleticism and his top level instincts, Callahan is a great cornerback prospect. He's a solid tackler and he can go up and compete for passes against taller receivers.
Cons:
5-10 cornerbacks are not the most sought after players in the draft, but Callahan can make up for that with his leaping ability. Callahan may project more as a nickelback to come in on likely passing plays.
at 185 pounds, Callahan is big enough to play defense in the NFL, but he could stand to get a little stronger to help him jam receivers at the line and also to help him be a more physical tackler.
Outlook:
All it takes is one team to like a player and they can be selected much higher than projected. Bryce Callahan could go anywhere from the 4th round to the 7th round, but he should hear his name called at some point. He had a very good showing on the field in 2014 and his spring workouts are backing that up.