Morris Claiborne

Claiborne arrived at LSU expecting to play wide receiver, but was moved to corner as a freshman at the insistence of teammate Patrick Peterson. In 2010, Claiborne started opposite Peterson (No. 5 overall selection in 2011 draft, Arizona Cardinals) in what will be remembered as one of the best cornerback tandems in college history. Peterson won the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation's top defensive back in 2010 and Claiborne won the award himself last season when he grabbed six of his 11 career interceptions. That popular term shutdown corner comes to mind watching Claiborne, who has in-your-face coverage instincts and is one of the best returners in this draft. A versatile athlete, "Mo" piled up 2,000 all-purpose yards and 30 touchdowns at quarterback as senior at Shreveport's Fair Park High School, where he also played baseball, basketball and won the Louisiana State 4A, 110-meter championship (10.76 seconds). Little wonder he is dangerous with the ball, evidenced by a college career total of 274 yards after the theft, including an 89-yard touchdown. He also averaged 28.8 yards last year on kickoff returns, including a 99-yard touchdown. At the Scouting Combine his unofficial time in 40 yards was an acceptable 4.50, but his speed wasn't in question. Claiborne will need to add bulk to be competitive at the next level.

run support

Used on run blitzes on occasion with size and length as a tackler. Holds up his man, maintains outside leverage, and sheds to make the tackle if needed on most plays. Has to be aware of coverage call and avoid overpursuit, giving up the sideline.

man coverage

Size, quick feet and reach allow him to be effective in press, press-bail and "off" coverage. Rarely loses a step off the line because of his length and subtle knack for maintaining contact on the move. Packs a solid punch when extending near the line to re-route receivers. Gives up significant weight and mass to top NFL receivers. Lazy and high in his backpedal on occasion, receivers lull him to sleep and get a step on him with a quick move.

tackling

Arm length and tenacious attitude make him a solid, if not fearsome, tackler on the edge. Height and flexibility to attack the thigh of opponents instead of needing to cut or grab an ankle. Not afraid to throw a shoulder but will miss tackles if he doesn't wrap in the NFL.

zone coverage

Used primarily in man. Has the physical tools to handle zone and is not contact-shy. Doesn't give up many yards after the catch -- long arms to pull down receivers and intensity to stick his nose in the pile. Recovers well but overestimates his closing speed and angle in zone.

intangibles

Stood up well to being targeted by teams in 2010 while playing across from Patrick Peterson. Still learning the position, but coaches and teammates consider him a great student.

ball skills

Former receiver has the hands to make difficult catches and will jump routes. Comfortable with the ball, elusive and has good vision after the catch. Often plays the man and doesn't get his head around to find the ball.

Outstanding athlete who had experience at quarterback, defensive back and wide receiver

Rated the No. 28 athlete by ESPNU

Named to the Louisiana Top 40 by SuperPrep Magazine

Named to the New Orleans Times-Picayune Blue-Chip list and the Baton Rouge Advocate's Super Dozen

As a senior, accounted for over 2,000 all-purpose yards and 30 touchdowns as a quarterback

Passed for 1009 yards and 14 touchdowns while rushing for 1,023 yards and 16 touchdowns

Was a three-time All-District selection at receiver and defensive back

Also played basketball, baseball and ran track in high school

Named Shreveport-Bossier Male High School Athlete of the Year by the Shreveport Times as a sophomore

Won the 4A state title in the 100-meters with a 10.76 clocking in 2009

Coached by Lent Barsey.

Full name is Morris Lee Claiborne

Nickname is "Mo"

Born Feb. 7, 1990, in Shreveport

Mom is Opal Claiborne

Majoring in general studies.