After Liberty cornerback Walt Aikens became the 7th Flame to be drafted in the school’s history, he was generating a lot of buzz across South Florida and all of the NFL. Here’s a summary of some of what is being said about the 4th round pick:
Bleacher Report: “Standing over 6’0” and weighing 205 pounds, Aikens brings much-needed size to a secondary that previously didn’t have a cornerback over 6’0”. He’s also a great athlete, registering a nearly elite 40-yard dash time of 4.49 at a workout according to CBS Sports and showing his speed in-game when running downfield with receivers…He might not make a big impact in 2014 as he is behind more experienced players that were drafted in earlier rounds, but there is upside for Aikens to become a solid boundary cornerback as he learns from defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle. Miami did well by acquiring a quality talent this late in the draft.”
Miami Herald: “The Dolphins bolstered their secondary by taking this 6-1, 203-pound cover man who was named to the All-Big South Conference his senior year…He will compete with Cortland Finnegan, Jamar Taylor and Will Davis for snaps in Miami’s secondary.”
Sun-Sentinal: “As a big (6 feet, 203 pounds), mobile cornerback who’s also played free safety, Aikens was drawing middle-round grades and was regarded as a rising player. The Dolphins could use reinforcements in the secondary after releasing Dimitri Patterson and losing free agents Nolan Carroll (Eagles), R.J. Stanford (Bengals) and Chris Clemons (Texans). The Dolphins signed Lions safety Louis Delmas as a free agent, with the vision of him becoming the team’s starting free safety. The Dolphins also signed Rams cornerback Cortland Finnegan, who is expected to compete with Jamar Taylor, Will Davis and Aikens for the starting spot opposite Brent Grimes. “I want to be a starter,” Aikens said.”
Mel Kiper, Jr: “Walt Aikens will need some time as he makes a big leap in competition, but is a needed addition at cornerback.”
Rob Rang: “Frankly, I’m more intrigued by the upside of the relative “small-schoolers” in Billy Turner, Walt Aikens and Jordan Tripp. James will start right away and Turner will develop into a starter relatively soon, as well, filling huge gaps in Miami’s offensive line but are the Dolphins closer to overtaking the Patriots with this draft?”
Chris Burke: “CB Walt Aikens also should contribute right away”
WalterFootball.com: “Walt Aikens and Jordan Tripp were steals.”
