Minnesota Vikings select Mekhi Blackmon in third round of 2023 NFL Draft
The NFL dream for Mekhi Blackmon has come true, as the former Colorado Buffaloes and USC Trojans cornerback was selected with the No. 102 overall pick, in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings.
Blackmon spent the first four seasons of his collegiate career in Boulder, with his best season coming in 2021, when he amassed 41 total tackles, four pass deflections and one interception. However, he put up even better numbers when he transferred to USC last season, accumulating 66 total tackles, 13 pass deflections, three interceptions and a forced fumble for the Trojans.
While the USC defense was suspect over the last season, Blackmon was one of the true bight spots. H put up big numbers and showed up in big spots, helping the Trojans make a case for the College Football Playoff all the way until the Pac-12 title game.
Additionally, he helped establish that Lincoln Riley’s program isn’t just for offensive guys to come in via transfer to build their stock, as a player on the defensive side of the football could do the very same thing in Los Angeles. Now, he’s on his way to the NFL after improving his game by leaps and bounds.
At the next level, he’ll have more to work on of course. However, Mekhi Blackmon has proved he’s ready, willing and able, and a bright future awaits him.
What NFL Draft analysts are saying about former USC CB Mekhi Blackmon
Moreover, NFL Draft analyst Lance Zierlein took his time and rated each and every prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft, and he believes Mekhi Blackmon has a chance at a fruitful NFL career.
“Aggressive man-cover cornerback whose physical play brings both passes defensed and penalties,” wrote Zierlein. “Blackmon gives receivers a rough ride over the first five yards, but his extended grabbing will be less tolerated by NFL officials. He’s capable of phasing routes when matching from press, but he doesn’t have the hips to transition smoothly when playing off-man coverage.
“He’s talented at squeezing the catch space and timing his challenges, but Blackmon’s lack of size and fluidity could limit his pro chances.”
Additionally, Zierlein listed Blackmon’s strengths as follows, “Has experience playing outside and in the slot. Fires quick, accurate strikes into opponent’s chest from press. Stays in phase and squeezes tight to the route. Consistent finding positioning when recovering or transitioning. Tracks and adjusts to deep throws like a wide receiver. Well-timed leaps help him get to high point.”