Michigan State's most coveted NFL Draft prospect, cornerback Justin Layne, was timed in the 40-yard dash Monday. After measuring in at 6 feet, 1 6/8 inches, Layne's 40 time was viewed as an area he could boost his stock ahead of April's draft.
Layne clocked unofficial times of 4.50 seconds and 4.51 at Lucas Oil Stadium. Watch his faster attempt in the video below:
#MichiganState DB Justin Layne with a 4.50u 40 yard dash #GoGreen #NFLCombine pic.twitter.com/uxbQM3gIJP
— Roto Street Journal (@RotoStJournal) March 4, 2019
Layne chose to enter the draft after a junior season that saw him earn second-team All-Big Ten honors. He finished with 72 tackles, one interception and 15 pass break-ups for the Spartans in 2018.
NFL.com gave Layne a prospect grade of 5.80, which translates to "chance to become NFL starter."
The following is NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein's evaluation of Layne: "Ascending bump-and-run cornerback with rare size and length who leans on good movement skills to overcome his average long speed. Although he plays with good route recognition, he'll allow some separation from breaks, but he's quick to hug-up and close the restrict the throwing window. He's not a burner, but he uses his size ball skills to make plays on the football down the field. Layne's traits could make him a fit in a variety of coverages, but he needs consistent toughness to help support against the run."
Longtime ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. projects Layne as a second-round pick.
The 2019 NFL Draft will be held in Nashville from April 25-27.
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