Mel Kiper Jr defends Derek Stingley Jr, Matt Miller calls him 'wildcard'

Derek Stingley Jr. has been one of the most intriguing prospects to watch in advance of the 2022 NFL Draft. Nobody knows where the former LSU star will be drafted, but ESPN NFL Draft experts Mel Kiper Jr. and Matt Miller attempted to make sense of it.

First, Miller stated that cornerback is one of the most intriguing positions. While Miller is high on Sauce Gardner out of Cincinnati, he recognizes Stingley could be a “wildcard.”

“I think what’s most intriguing is the corner position,” started Miller. “With Sauce Gardner, with Derek Stingley Jr. Two years ago, we would’ve been talking about Stingley as a potential top-five pick, after that true freshman year at LSU. Where they won the national championship. But he’s only played 10 games the last two years. Hasn’t had an interception in that time.

“So, I think he’s the wildcard in this class, of where’s he going to fall. Because if you get 2019, you have an elite corner. If you don’t, that’s where the question marks pop up.”

Moreover, Miller’s statement echoes the popular feelings about the LSU defensive back. However, Kiper Jr. is still a gigantic supporter in Stingley’s corner.

“It’s going to be a heck of a battle,” stated Kiper, regarding Gardner and Stingley. “Derek Stingley Jr. — a couple of years ago after 2019, I thought he could be the No. 1 pick in this draft. But obviously COVID, then the injury affected that. Sauce Gardner’s going out there and playing great football. Lockdown corner, intercepting passes with great ball skills. Tremendous length. So, that’s why I gave the slight edge to Gardner. Although I rate Stingley ahead of him.

“I’ll take that leap of faith on Derek Stingley Jr. — who was unbelievable in 2019. Those battles in practice with Ja’Marr Chase on a team that went 15-0. Won a national title. He had six picks, 15 pass breakups. Then, the COVID year. He lost all that talent. Then, the injury. I’m hoping April 6th — he goes out and shows he’s 100%. He could be ready to go. This guy has enormous talent.

“I don’t buy into the fact that he doesn’t love the game — I think he does love the game. For two years now — COVID and the injury — affected his performance. He’s a young kid. Was 17 when he came to that LSU campus. I’m going to take that leap of faith, and continue to stick with Derek Stingley Jr.”

As you can see, the experts are split on the cornerback position in the 2022 NFL Draft. Whether it’s Sauce Gardner or Derek Stingley Jr., an NFL team will be elated to turn in their draft card come April.