2014: Started all 12 games. 2013: First-team All-Conference USA. Started all 13 games. 2012: Honorable mention All-Conference USA. Freshman All-Conference USA.
Pro Day Results
40-yard dash: 4.47 and 4.48 seconds
Analysis
Strengths
Smooth trigger with limited stall at the top of his backpedal when firing forward. Can gather himself quickly to change direction. Takes few false steps and is able to sink hips and hit brakes quickly when called on. Former high school wide receiver with reliable hands and outstanding balls skills. Looks to attack the throw as often as he can and is rarely outmuscled on 50/50 balls. Has 15 career interceptions in three years, including two for touchdowns in 2013. Above-average instincts and feel for what quarterback will look for on third down. Athletic with the hips and feet to act on instincts and ball skills. Called a "workaholic" by teammates. Plays through pain and rarely misses practice.
Weaknesses
Fell in love with the "big play" after 2013 and took too many chances in 2014. Desire to challenge every throw leads to undisciplined, lazy technique at times. Plays tall in backpedal. Takes aggressive, high-risk angles in attempt to undercut throws and make the interception. Will likely always be a feast or famine cornerback as a pro. Gets too committed to recover effectively against a double move. Relies on grabbing and downfield mauling that won't be allowed in NFL. Atrocious outing vs. Rutgers, giving up six catches for 162 yards and three touchdowns. Inconsistent play speed on tape. Inconsistent demeanor in run support. Can be bullied by bigger wide receivers at the point of attack.
Draft Projection
Round 4 or 5
NFL Comparison
Buster Skrine
Bottom Line
Doss is a thin but functionally strong cornerback with an overriding desire to compete for every ball thrown his way, which led to 33 passes defensed and 15 interceptions during his three-year stint at Tulane. He wasn't challenged very often in 2014 and his long speed will be revealed in his workouts, but his ball skills and ability to flip the field should gain him additional attention from general managers.
