Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston visits with Eagles

[ASFN Admin]

The Philadelphia Eagles struck gold with their first two picks in last year's NFL Draft, selecting top cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean.

Both rookies contributed to Philadelphia's Super Bowl run, and their immediate production may have encouraged GM Howie Roseman to draft another corner this year.

Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston, widely regarded as a top-five corner prospect, recently visited the Eagles, per his Instagram story.

Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston visited the #Falcons and #Eagles. #NFLDraft#30visitspic.twitter.com/Ns94kXj362

— Jaguars Now (@JaguarsNow95) March 20, 2025

Hairston possesses elite closing speed and coverage skills, becoming one of the SEC's most prolific ballhawks during his time at Kentucky. After running a blazing 4.29 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, Hairston will undoubtedly hear his name called in the first round in April.

Here's a look at Hairston's Scouting Report via The Draft Network:

Maxwell Hairston burst onto the scene as one of the most productive cornerbacks in college football in the 2023 season, recording five interceptions and two returned for touchdowns. Hairston plays within what appears to be a primarily zone defense which supports Hairston’s A-traits: instincts, ball skills, and the ability to be a quick reactor. Through his play, Hairston has elevated himself to be considered a playmaker for the Kentucky defense and one of the most talented defenders in college football.

Hairston has many high-level qualities but the most important trait of his skill set is his ball skills. Hairston has proven to be a ball magnet, always putting himself in situations to be around the football. Whether that's jumping routes, tracking the deep ball, or simply being around for tips and overthrows, Hairston shows that if he can get his hands on the football, he can bring in the pass for the interception and make a big play for the defense.

Overall, Hairston projects to be a high-level contributor in a primary zone scheme who can make big plays for the defense and create turnovers early in his career.

As talented as Hairston is, the Eagles likely aren't drafting a cornerback that early with Mitchell, DeJean, and Kelee Ringo destined for bright futures. However, Hairston is ranked as Daniel Jeremiah's 32nd-best prospect, where Philadelphia is slated to make their selection (for now).

If Hairston is the irrefutable best player available at pick No. 32, we could see him paired with Quinyon Mitchell in Philadelphia.

Maxwell Hairston with effortless speed in DB drills

: #NFLCombine on @NFLNetwork
: Stream on @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/Bsb2aZYKF7

— NFL (@NFL) February 28, 2025

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston visits with Eagles

Continue reading...