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2023 Steelers Prospect: South Carolina-CB-Darius Rush

Ranked By: Joe 412 and John Toth


Photo courtesy of Gamecock Fanatics.


Darius Rush was not the cornerback from South Carolina that everyone talked about in 2022. Those accolades went to his teammate, Cam Smith. However, Rush opened the eyes of many scouts during Senior Bowl week with his cover skills and playmaking abilities.


In his senior season, Rush began to blossom. He had twenty-six tackles, two interceptions, and six pass break-ups, even when teams turned their sights away from Smith to face him. He is a strong tackler, has shown flashes at blitzing when given the opportunity, and has great closing speed.


His performance at the Senior Bowl was nothing less than stellar, demonstrating he has both the size and speed to play in the NFL. Though he doesn’t have the pedigree of Smith, Rush may end up being a steal in this year’s draft.


Here is a look at Darius Rush's pros and cons:


CB-: Darius Rush Measurables

Height: 6’0” 

Weight: 196 lbs.

Hands: 9 1/2”

Arm: 32 3/4”

Span: 79 ¾”

40 Time: 4.38


Pros


  • Good NFL length

  • Good tackler, a plus on special teams

  • Very good at tracking the ball

  • Plays well in zone coverages


Cons


  • Not a man-to-man type of player

  • Struggles on multi-moves

  • Had bouts of inconsistency

  • Plays too upright

  • Change of direction issues


Final Analysis


Three weeks ago, Darius Rush’s name was not one that was being talked about in draft circles, but after what he showed at the Senior Bowl, scouts will be interested in how he tests at the combine.


Projected Draft Position


Darius Rush is rising up draft boards and could be a nice third day pick for a team like the Steelers who may sign a veteran in free agency and can take a chance on a riser like Rush.

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