Stephon Gilmore

Several NFL scouts were enamored with the mental and physical abilities of this athletic corner and looking for a reason to push him up draft boards. He gave them reason at the Scouting Combine when he quantified his speed with an unofficial 40 time of 4.40 seconds and had the second best time among defensive backs in the 20-yard shuttle (3.94). He also measured a full 1/4 inch over six feet tall. Gilmore plays with an astute awareness that makes him a dangerous defender to test. He is a vocal team leader who understands everybody's role on defense and is especially effective in zone coverage where he seems to triangulate well, tracking both the quarterback and receivers. Gilmore is aggressive both going to the ball and coming up on the run, although he could use a little more bulk to hold up in the NFL. Gilmore started at cornerback all 40 games the last three years and in 2011 made 46 tackles and led the team with four interceptions, giving him eight for his career. He was selected first-team All-SEC and third-team AP All American in 2010.

run support

Takes run support very seriously, seeking out contact. Chops down runs to his side when able, evades most receivers blocks with quickness and quick hands -- though NFL receivers will have regular success holding him up on the outside because of his slight build.

man coverage

Plays mostly in press-bail or off-coverage. Flashes a tough, aggressive punch after the snap in rare press coverage occasions, but may not have the strength to knock NFL receivers off their routes. Not elite transitioning forward from backpedal, will take an extra step or loop a bit when closing on slants. Lacks elite recovery and straight-line speed to stay with faster wideouts down the field if beaten on a double move or losing a step off the line.

tackling

Aggressive hitter in the secondary who plays without regard to his own safety. Best when coming downhill and cutting down ballcarriers with a low shoulder. Constantly looking to strip the football from ballcarriers while other defenders are making the tackle. Man-up tackling is a challenge for him, however, when facing a strong runner who lowers his pads or larger receivers with the length to stiff-arm him. Plays on coverage units. Brought on edge blitzes regularly when front four isn't getting there, uses quickness and big hits to create turnovers from the blind side.

zone coverage

Fits best in a zone system like he currently plays. Knows his, and others', assignments on every play. Comes out initial read quickly to stop the underneath route dead. Quick feet in off coverage to adjust to inside routes, even when playing outside technique. Explodes to plays in front of him, cutting down his target or wrapping up if able to line up the receiver. Forces turnovers and dropped passes with his ability to arrive strong at the receiver with the ball.

intangibles

Left after junior season with 40 career starts. Quiet, hard-working player who consistently gets praise from coaches and teammates for his work ethic and attitude. Puts in time in the film room, knows his opponents and defensive scheme inside and out. No worries about on-field effort, brings tenacious attitude on every play.

ball skills

Makes quarterbacks pay for poor throws with centerfielder-like instincts and hands. Uses his height in full advantage on jump balls, make difficult catches with his hands extended away from his frame. Excellent elusiveness after the catch that shows as a punt returner. Has solid hands and typically makes the right decision to fair catch, but does not have breakaway speed and will dance or move east-west instead of heading straight upfield.

Graduated from South Pointe High School in Rock Hill, S.C. in December of 2008.. earned first-team all-state honors by The State as a senior playing for head coach Bobby Carroll

named to the prestigious PARADE All-America team and was a first-team All-American by EA Sports

named Mr. Football for the state of South Carolina

helped his team to a perfect 15-0 record and the South Carolina AAAA Division II title as a senior

rushed for 1,331 yards and 23 touchdowns and passed for 1,771 yards with 14 scores

rushed for 119 yards and three TDs and passed for 69 yards and another score in the state championship game win over Northwestern

played quarterback in the 72nd Shrine Bowl Game of the Carolinas

rushed for 71 yards and passed for 28 more to lead the Sandlappers to a come-from-behind victory over the Tar Heels, earning Offensive MVP honors

selected to participate in the Under Armour High School All-American Game in Orlando. Surpassed the 1,000-yard mark both passing and rushing in 2007

a four-star prospect who was the second-best prospect in the state of South Carolina, the nation's sixth-best "athlete" and listed 84th overall by Rivals.com

considered a five-star prospect and the nation's third-best safety according to Scout.com

listed first among South Carolina players and 48th among SuperPrep's Elite 50

listed among PrepStar's Top 250

ranked 18th on the ESPNU 150

had offers from more than 30 programs while choosing to play his college ball at Carolina

played with 2009 Gamecock signees DeVonte Holloman and Charles Holmes at South Pointe.

Stephon Gilmore was born September 19, 1990

is undecided on his major field of study.