For a time, there was a debate about which school was truly “DB U” between LSU and Florida. While their fan bases were very vocal about it, other schools fit in with their consistent pipeline of defensive back talent to the NFL. Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State produced a lot of good cornerbacks and safeties, but another consistent source of pro cornerback talent was through Virginia Tech. Under Frank Beamer, the Hokies cranked out a lot of NFL cornerback talent. After some down years, the cornerback prospect tradition is being reestablished thanks to Mansoor Delane and Dorian Strong. Team sources say that Delane, in particular, has impressed them.
“He’s a good player. Really instinctive, blankets receivers, and will tackle,” said an AFC director of player personnel.
Delane is in the process of producing his third straight impressive season. As a freshman in 2022, Delane had 38 tackles with two forced fumbles, an interception, and eight passes broken up. In his sophomore season, he totaled 54 tackles with an interception and pass batted. This year, he already has a career-high of two interceptions, with six tackles and three passes batted in three games. In my latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft, I have Delane going in the top 40. The 6-foot, 185-pounder has good size and quality tape. Team sources feel he has the potential to be a riser throughout the draft process.
