Tyrique Stevenson

Summary

Tyrique Stevenson was selected in Round 2 (#56 Overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft out of the University of Miami after transferring from the University of Georgia. A physically gifted cornerback, Stevenson combined elite size and length with SEC and ACC experience. At Miami, he totaled 94 tackles, 2 interceptions, 13 passes defended, and was frequently tasked with matching up against top receivers, earning a reputation as a competitive, aggressive cover defender. In the NFL, Stevenson quickly earned a starting role as a rookie, playing heavy snaps on the outside and showing rapid development. Through the 2024 season, he recorded 120+ tackles, multiple interceptions, double-digit passes defended, and demonstrated increasing confidence in man and zone responsibilities. Stevenson is known for his edge, confidence, and competitive toughness, bringing a physical, fearless mindset to the secondary.

Strengths

• Size & Length: Prototypical outside corner frame with long arms to disrupt passing windows. Uses length and strength to stay in phase on vertical routes.

• Physicality at Line: Effective press corner who challenges releases and reroutes receivers. Actively plays through hands and consistently contests catches.

• Competitive Toughness: Plays with confidence and edge and embraces top matchups.

• Run Support: Aggressive and physical tackler who shows a strong downhill presence.

Weaknesses

• Penalty Risk: Aggressive hands and physicality can lead to flags.

• Route Discipline: Can be susceptible to double moves when overly aggressive. Demonstrates functional recovery speed if initially beaten.

• Ball Tracking: Needs improvement locating the ball on deep throws and still refining spacing and anticipation in off coverage.

• Emotional Control: Swagger can occasionally spill into unnecessary reactions. Perhaps most famously known for the viral moment of him dorking around at the line of scrimmage before Jayden Daniels and the Commanders scored a Hail Mary as time expired in 2024.

Outlook

Stevenson is best suited for man-oriented or press-heavy defensive schemes that value physicality, competitiveness, and boundary toughness. He thrives when allowed to challenge receivers at the line and play aggressively through routes rather than sitting passively in soft zone coverage. Pairing him with a steady veteran or a true shutdown corner allows Stevenson to maximize his strengths without being overexposed early in games. Looking ahead, Stevenson projects as a long-term starting outside CB2 with ascending upside. Continued refinement in ball skills, discipline, and route recognition will determine whether he reaches the upper tier of physical NFL corners. Even with occasional volatility, his toughness, confidence, and availability give him a high floor as a starter and a chance to become a true tone-setter in a physical defensive secondary.