Rod

Issac

A small-school prospect out of Middle Tennessee State, Issac played in three games as a special teamer this season. He’ll be back to battle for a similar role next year.

The Jags are enamored by the small-schooler Issac’s “aggressive hitting ability,” and believe he’s a player “with enormous potential.” Issac’s competition will come from William Middleton and David Jones. Middleton was the team’s slot corner last season. Jones is best suited for a special teams-only role.

“This is one of the most physical corners in the draft,” said GM Gene Smith. “Our corner has to be able to tackle whether you’re playing inside or outside, inside meaning the nickel spot.” Being a rookie corner that can actually tackle only helps Issac’s chances of contributing in his rookie year. But his biggest immediate role will likely be on special teams.

Nobody combs the small schools for late-round sleepers like Jags GM Gene Smith. A member of the MTSU track team, Issac is a big, athletic corner willing to body up receivers at the line of scrimmage. He’ll need to hone instincts and timing in coverage, but this is another interesting developmental project for the Jags.

The Middle Tennessee State product is expected to compete for the nickel back job in the Jags’ woeful secondary. Whether he can make a quick jump from the Sun Belt Conference to the NFL is another story. Consider Issac a project for now.