Should the Vikings select Brandon Cisse?
ESPN analyst Field Yates is one of the most respected presences in the NFL Draft field. He just released a new post-Super Bowl mock draft where he had the Minnesota Vikings selecting South Carolina cornerback Brandon Cisse. This would be an ideal selection for the Vikings, as they have a dire need at cornerback. Byron Murphy and Isiah Rodgers are each solid, but could use improvement. The former Gamecock may not be the most developed prospect, but he has sky-high potential and could develop into a superstar.
“Cisse is one of the most unique prospects in this class, as he's a cornerback with uncommon strength and athletic ability; if he tests at the combine, get ready for a show,” Yates wrote. “While a perimeter corner at his core, Cisse took occasional slot snaps at South Carolina. He was a force against the run from either alignment and can plaster perimeter wideouts in man coverage, staying physical and matching them stride-for-stride.”
Yates notes how Cisse is an athletic freak and will dominate the Combine, which is evident while watching him play. He has outstanding vertical speed paired with amazing short-area quickness that allows him to match any receiver he’s covering. Additionally, he’s extremely physical in coverage, occasionally drawing penalties, but he makes it a nightmare for opposing receivers to separate.
Cisse primarily plays on the boundary, but has the ability to line up anywhere on the field. He’s taken snaps as an outside cornerback, in the slot, as a free safety, and in the box. He’s incredibly versatile and can play wherever the defense needs him. Cisse would thrive in a Brian Flores-led defense where he can be a chess piece, being implemented at various positions to keep the offense guessing.
The biggest issue with Cisse is that he’s still a raw prospect, particularly with his technique. He’s shown flashes of impressive mirroring ability, but is still inconsistent. This is evident while pressing. He lunges forward, trying to seek contact, which can allow an elite receiver to sidestep him and get a free release. Cisse will need NFL-level coaching to help him develop in these areas.
Brandon Cisse is an intriguing option in the NFL Draft, and could be someone the Vikings consider selecting at pick 18. He’s got arguably the highest upside out of any cornerback because of his athleticism and versatility, but still needs to develop his technique. Cisse would be an excellent addition to Minnesota and would fit perfectly in Brian Flores’ defense.