Chad Wilson
April 30, 2025
Every year, talented defensive backs get picked early in the NFL Draft with sky-high expectations—only to struggle or flame out after a season or two. These draft misses aren’t just cautionary tales; they’re valuable case studies in what not to do.
Here are a few common reasons why DBs fail at the next level and how you can avoid the same fate:
1. Relying Too Much on Athleticism
Some prospects test off the charts but never develop the technique needed to match NFL route runners. Athleticism is a tool, not a solution. If your whole game is built on being faster or stronger, you’ll eventually face someone faster and more technical. Build a strong foundation in footwork, eye discipline, and leverage.
2. Poor Film Study Habits
Several DBs have admitted they didn’t study much film in college. That catches up to them fast. Offenses in the NFL are complex and fast-paced. DBs who fail to adapt mentally struggle. Start building good habits now—study your opponents and yourself every week.
3. Struggles with Adversity
Draft busts often hit the wall when they lose confidence after giving up a big play or losing reps in camp. Mental toughness is a key trait. Learn how to bounce back quickly and stay focused. Every DB gets beat sometimes—it’s about how you respond.
4. Inability to Learn a System
Some DBs look great in one scheme and get drafted by a team running another. If they can’t adapt, they struggle. The more you understand different coverages (man, zone, match), the more valuable you become. You have to have a love for defense and defensive history. Understanding the philosophies helps you easily adapt to the adjustments that are made.
5. Off-Field Issues
From discipline problems to poor work ethic, character concerns have derailed many promising careers. Take care of the off-field business. Be reliable, focused, and professional. It is very difficult to separate personal life from career life. Only a small handful can but this is not a bet that you need to make.
6. Poor System Fit
Every year we see this mistake being made by organizations. They will draft a cornerback off of a name or even traits but simply is not a fit for what they do defensively. Case in point was Derek Stingley in Houston. Stingley is a man corner with solid route reading skills in 3 deep zones. However, Houston drafted him to play Cover 2 primarily. This was not his strong suit and thus he was invisible for his first couple of seasons. Under the new staff he has been placed into a more suitable fitting system and has thrived.
7. Poor Player Development
It isn’t always on on the player. Some teams just aren’t good at player development. Whether it is failure to pick the right player for their scheme or failure to develop the player’s mindset / tools for their defense, some organizations are notorious for failing a certain position. Ultimately, it’s on the player but some guys enter the league and are climbing an steep uphill battle. Being strong mentally in those situations is crucial. A player’s career depends on it.
Turn Mistakes into Motivation
Instead of just watching the highlight reels of draft picks, study the cautionary tales too. Learn from them. Don’t just aim to get drafted—aim to stick and thrive.
Want to build elite DB habits and mindset?
- Tap into archived knowledge in the All Eyes DB Camp Library
- Master coverage schemes and 7on7 strategy with the Ultimate 7on7 Defensive Playbook
- Or join the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area for training plans, drills, and exclusive content updated regularly.
Chad Wilson is the owner of All Eyes DB Camp and author of "101 DB Tips". He played college football at the University of Miami and briefly in the NFL for the Seattle Seahawks. Over his 15 year high school football coaching career, he tutored over a dozen Division I defensive backs and as a trainer has worked with NFL All Pros, first round draft picks, college football All Americans and Top 10 ranked high school football prospects.
