Few college football cornerbacks in recent memory can match the resumé of NC State’s Aydan White. White solidified a legacy in Raleigh with nine career interceptions.
The Asheville, North Carolina native earned first-team All-ACC honors in 2022 and followed it up with a third-team selection in 2023. He didn’t allow a touchdown either season, showcasing remarkable coverage skills and disciplined technique.
“He’s very fluid,” said head coach Dave Doeren of White in 2023. “His transition from backpedal to open and run, changing direction. His ball skills and ball tracking abilities, it’s elite. He has really good hands.”
White became the first NC State cornerback to earn All-ACC honors since David Amerson in 2012. With a successful college career behind him, let’s take a look at his NFL Draft profile.
Strengths
White was Doeren’s top corner in NC State’s 3-3-5 scheme, where he excelled in Cover 3. White’s game speed jumps off the tape, as his IQ couples beautifully with elite footwork to process and react quickly.
His numbers tell the story — zero touchdowns and six interceptions during his junior and senior years.
His scheme versatility is another strength, as he has little-to-no technical flaws in man or zone. His instincts and tackling ability suggest he could play on the backline in situational spots. He’s also a willing tackler, which should help him earn a roster slot and prove himself early on in special teams.
White appeared in 49 games over five years, missing just three games as a starter.
Weaknesses
White’s biggest concerns stem from his frame and recovery speed.
With a lighter physical profile, 6 feet tall and 189 lbs, he lacks the ability to press true X receivers at the line. For example, a team like the Pittsburgh Steelers would bother White with receivers DK Metcalf and George Pickens on the perimeter, who are both at least 6-foot-3 and 200 lbs or more.
Limited slot reps and below-average speed make Z and slot receivers tough matchups. This combination could curb his ability to start and keep him solely on special teams, though White has embraced the challenge of proving himself wherever he’s needed.
“Coming into my rookie year, I’m just trying to compete and see where I can land,” White said in an interview with Technician at NC State’s Pro Day. “I want to play inside, outside, just be real versatile on the field. Obviously, special teams [will be part of my role]. Just be a contributor any way I can for the team.”
Pro Day
White’s 40-yard dash was caught between graduate defensive end Davin Vann and senior safety DK Kaufman, who both had blazing performances, so White’s seemed underwhelming. However, his fluid field work made up the difference. The workout echoed Doeren’s praise of his footwork and backpedal transition.
Comparison
White’s game mirrors that of Jacksonville Jaguars corner Jourdan Lewis, a fellow undersized corner with next-level instincts. Like Lewis, White’s physical ceiling may keep him from being a true No. 1 corner, but he could become a high-level contributor in the right system.
Projection
White’s physical profile may keep him from being drafted altogether. Many scouting websites have him rated as a primary free-agent target.
His positional flexibility should make him a post-draft priority for multiple teams, even if his name isn’t called in April. The Vikings and Panthers primarily utilize zone and have elite, No. 1 corners on the roster, which could give White the time and mentorship to develop further.
Summary
White enters the NFL Draft as a skilled technician with a standout college career, though his limitations may influence his role at the next level. His openness to taking on a variety of roles, including special teams, will be crucial to his longevity. While he may not be a top-tier prospect, his skill set should earn him a roster spot and could lead to a role for the right partner.
