NFL scouts came to the University of South Florida today to watch 15 draft-eligible seniors -- 11 from USF -- work out and showcase their athletic abilities on Pro Timing Day.
Monte Kiffin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator, showed up and offered his thoughts about one player in particular -- former USF cornerback Mike Jenkins. Kiffin likes Jenkins' coverage skills, hands and speed.
"(Jenkins has) got good man (coverage) skills," Kiffin said.
USF played a lot of man coverage last season because of the talent at the cornerback position. Jenkins played right cornerback last year with Trae Williams -- who also worked out today -- at left cornerback. Jenkins has some left-side cornerback experience, which he might have to switch to in the NFL, according to scouts.
Kiffin said switching from one side to the other will not be a problem. "There is no adjustment needed. No way. Corners are corners."
Jenkins speed helped him be an effective corner.
He recorded 4.38 seconds at the NFL Combine last month, which was tied for seventh among cornerbacks, according to NFL.com.
"We can't teach speed," Kiffin said.
Kiffin also said that Jenkins didn't need to be taught how to catch the ball.
"Some young DB's will come in (the NFL) and not have great hands. We'll get the ball machine out there -- throw the ball, throw the ball -- and they'll get better and better. But the real good ones, they just got the hands, and you don't have to coach them.
"And that's what this kid has."
Last season, Jenkins intercepted three passes.
-Aaron Oberlin, assistant sports editor
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