Dejuan Groce
Notes: Last name is pronounced "Gross." High school sprinter who reportedly ran a 10.7 in the 100 meters. Redshirted in 1998. Played every game in '99 and had 24 tackles and broke up two passes. Saw action in 11 games and got his first two starts in 2000. Started 11-of-12 games in '01 and took over the punt-return duties. Posted 24-17 and his first interception in '00 and 31-14-3 in '01, when he also returned 33 punts for 469 yards and a touchdown. In '02, was named second-team All-American as a return specialist by the Associated Press and was on the All-Big 12 second team as a cornerback and punt returner. Started all 14 games (including the Independence Bowl) and recorded 38 tackles, broke up eight passes and intercepted four. Also returned four punts for touchdowns.

Positives: An all-around athlete who is very good in bump-and-run coverage. Is smooth with fluid movements and hips. He can change directions and pedal without losing much speed and can start and stop. Has good hands and ball skills, as well as good vision and balance in the return game. Covers a lot of ground in zone schemes and is a better cover man than former Nebraska teammate Keyuo Craver (now with the Saints). Has outstanding agility and responds well when beaten. Makes effort in run support.

Negatives: His size makes it difficult for him to defend bigger receivers and support against the run. Is a drag-down tackler. Needs safety help in deep zones. Smart, but can be lazy in film study and classroom. Gets out of position at times and will waste a step. Doesn't close as well as he could.

Summary: A first-day prospect because of his speed, versatility.