Evaluating college cornerbacks for the NFL is a complex task, as different defensive schemes require specific skills and intangibles. South Carolina’s O’Donnell Fortune, a redshirt senior, is an under-the-radar prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. His unique skill set and background make him an intriguing player, but questions about his discipline and play strength could impact his draft stock.
**Player Background**
Standing at 6’0” and 188 pounds, Fortune hails from Sumter, South Carolina, where he starred in football and track at Sumter High School. A consensus three-star recruit, he chose to stay close to home and joined the South Carolina Gamecocks in 2020. His first two years were quiet, but he broke out in 2022 with two interceptions, including a pick-six. Fortune started in 2023 and 2024, earning honorable mention All-SEC honors in 2024. However, his college career was marred by a suspension against Kentucky in 2023 and what appeared to be a benching during the 2024 Ole Miss game, raising questions about his discipline and consistency.
### **Strengths**
Fortune’s physical traits are appealing. His height, length, and quickness allow him to recover well against receivers, and his sudden cuts and hip fluidity make him a threat in zone coverage. He also has a knack for forcing fumbles, showcasing his timing and aggressiveness. In structured zone schemes, his reactivity and ball skills shine, making him a potential asset for teams that emphasize baiting quarterbacks into mistakes.
### **Weaknesses**
Fortune’s most significant weaknesses are his play strength and tackling. He struggles to shed blocks and often tackles too high, allowing ball carriers to break free. His discipline in coverage is also a concern, as he tends to bite on double moves and can get caught flat-footed against slower releases. Additionally, his suspension and benching raise questions about his off-field behavior, which teams will need to investigate during the pre-draft process.
### **Potential Team Fits**
Fortune’s skill set aligns with teams that rely heavily on zone coverage, such as the Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, and Dallas Cowboys. His ability to disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers could make him a valuable depth piece in the right system.
### **NFL Projection**
Fortune is projected as a Day 3 pick or undrafted free agent. While his physical gifts are enticing, his weaknesses in play strength and discipline limit his upside. However, with proper coaching and a scheme that maximizes his strengths, Fortune could develop into a reliable depth cornerback capable of creating game-changing plays. If he can refine his technique and address his off-field concerns, he has the potential to exceed expectations and carve out a role in the NFL.
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