Daniel Shirey-US Presswire

Claiborne has good size, quick feet, and good reach. He is effective in press, press-bail, and off coverage. He rarely losses a step off the line of scrimmage because of his length and his ability to maintain contact on the move. He extends very well near the line of scrimmage to re-route receivers. He can be lazy and high in his backpedal but his quick movements help get a step on receivers. He’s been primarily used in man so he doesn’t have much experience in the zone defense, however, he has the tools to do well in it. He doesn’t avoid contact and doesn’t give up many yards after catches. His long arms help him pull down receivers. He recovers well but sometimes overestimates his closing speed and angle. As a former receiver, Claiborne has very good hands but sometimes doesn’t get his head around quick enough to find the ball. He will jump routes for interceptions and is very comfortable carrying the ball after doing so. When having the ball he’s elusive and has good vision. He’s used regularly on blitzes. In run support he is good at holding his man up and maintaining outside leverage. He can shed blocks but sometimes falls victim to overpursuit. His height and flexibility make him good at attacking runner’s thighs but when he doesn’t wrap up he often misses tackles.

Awards: 2010 2nd Team All-SEC
2011 1st Team All-American
2011 1st Team All-SEC

2011 Stats: 51 Tackles
6 Interceptions

Projection: Top 10 pick