Byron Maxwell Scouting Report

After redshirting in 2006, Byron Maxwell stepped into a major role off the bench as a freshman. The 6-1, 205 pound cornerback played 317 snaps and recorded 27 tackles and four pass break-ups. Maxwell continued to see some time off the bench as a cornerback during his sophomore campaign, but he also emerged as superb special teams player -- tallying a team high 21 special team tackles.

Maxwell continued to battle for more playing time as a junior, but for the most part was stuck on the bench. He still managed to put up some impressive numbers and that led to higher expectations for the 2010 campaign. However, Maxwell was somewhat disappointing once he finally earned a starting role. For one, he could not hold onto the starting position and he was also a part of a surprisingly susceptible Clemson secondary. With quality players like DeAndre McDaniel and Marcus Gilchrist in the secondary, Maxwell was expected to use his experience and perform quite well in the starting lineup. However, that was often not the case.

Maxwell is still a decent NFL prospect. His lack of collegiate production is a huge concern, but he is a very quick corner who has enough size to be an effective corner at the next level. He is not always the most fluid player on the field, but he can make up for it with his speed. Yet, his speed alone is not enough to get him drafted in the first three rounds and Maxwell will likely be a mid-round selection who can pay his dues on special teams and fill in at corner when needed.