In a remarkable college career, Cobee Bryant, the former Kansas cornerback, has made a name for himself with 13 interceptions and 35 pass deflections over four years. The Alabama native is expected to be selected on the second day of the NFL Draft and could see significant playing time as a rookie if chosen by the right team. Known for his quick reaction skills, Bryant emphasizes the importance of anticipating the ball's movement, which has been key to his success.
In the heart of Evergreen, Alabama, a town with just around 2,000 residents, Cobee Bryant began his football journey. As a three-star high school recruit, he led Hillcrest-Evergreen to the 2017 Class 3A state championship and was ranked 28th in Alabama by Rivals. Initially recruited as both a receiver and defensive back, Bryant initially played as a wide receiver before transitioning to cornerback at Kansas. This dual experience has given him unique insights into offensive strategies, making it easier for him to anticipate and intercept passes.
Bryant chose Kansas over offers from prestigious programs like Tennessee, Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech, Indiana, Kentucky, Ole Miss, and Auburn. He decided against staying close to home, opting instead for a fresh start away from Alabama. His cousin, Cam Riley, who later transferred to Florida State, had already been at Auburn, and Bryant wanted to forge his own path. Despite being only 5-foot-11 and 175 pounds, Bryant has demonstrated exceptional versatility, contributing 128 tackles, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries throughout his college career. His run defense grade of 91.3 from Pro Football Focus underscores his defensive prowess.
At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Bryant aims to prove that size does not limit his ability to tackle or defend. With a mindset focused on excellence, he intends to showcase why he believes he is among the best coverage defenders in this draft class. Fans can catch Bryant in action during the DB/TE drills on Friday, February 3rd, live on the NFL Network.
From a journalist's perspective, Cobee Bryant's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability. His journey from a small town in Alabama to becoming an NFL prospect highlights the importance of seizing opportunities and continuously improving one's skills. Bryant's humility and determination make him not only a promising player but also an inspiring figure for young athletes aspiring to follow in his footsteps.