NFL Rookie Preview: Aqib Talib (CB)

A 6’1, 202 pound, rookie cornerback out of Kansas, Aqib Talib was sort of a surprise pick in the 2008 NFL draft at #20. Talib, a versatile athlete, did a great job for the Jayhawks in college and has great playmaking skills. He also does a pretty good job of gambling and going for the big play. By using his long arms, he has the ability to get his hands on a lot of passes.

At Kansas, Talib played in 34 games, starting 32 of them. He was able to make 162 tackles (126 solo) with 9.5 of them for losses. He was also able to recover two fumbles, and had 13 interceptions. As a receiver for the Jayhawks, he caught 9 passes for 224 total yards, and five touchdowns. Talib also returned 2 punts for the Jayhawks for a total of 21 yards.

Talib attended Berkner High School in Richardson, Texas where he earned first team All-District and All-City honors and was named the ‘Defensive Back of the Year’. He also participated in basketball and track as a high school athlete.

Talib is been noted by scouts as just an average tackler, with his downfall being his strength. He has also been known to be a bit of a showboater who loves the spotlight. The Bucs nabbed him, due to their desire to become younger in the backfield. Aqib Talib seems to be that guy and could become a special player in the NFL.