Travis Anderson

A boundary cornerback is more than just the defender lined up to the short side of the field From a scouting and coaching perspective, the position is built around leverage, discipline, communication and the ability to consistently handle outside coverage within the structure of the defense The boundary naturally reduces space, but that does not make the assignment easy. The corner still has to defend vertical routes, back-shoulder throws, quick game, route combinations and contested catches while understanding where his help is and when the sideline can be used as an extra defender When evaluating the position, I am looking closely at press technique, release control, foot quickness, transition ability, recovery speed, route recognition, eye discipline, ball skills and catch-point competitiveness Physicality also matters, especially when dealing with bigger receivers, defeating blocks, supporting the run and finishing tackles in space The exact responsibilities will always depend on the coverage, formation and defensive call. A boundary corner may be isolated on one snap and receive help on the next. That is why football intelligence and communication with safeties and underneath defenders are just as important as athletic ability From a coaching standpoint, a dependable boundary corner gives the defense flexibility. When you trust that player to consistently execute his assignment, it can open up more options with safety rotations, pressure packages, matchup plans and coverage distribution