Despite boasting a 6’0″180-pound frame, RS sophomore Camryn Bynum will blow the NCAA away and surprise some NFL scouts. Many outside of Berkeley might not know his name, but come June, you’ll hear it called on draft day.
While the pass defense of Cal left a lot to be desired last season, Bynum was a bright spot. Tying the team lead with 2 interceptions, he was dangerous for a defense that was rather weak. He was fifth on the team in tackles with 58 and lead in tackles by a non-linebacker. He also led the team with 8 passes broken up and 10 passes defended.
Another aspect that NFL scouts will appreciate will be his work ethic. Bynum is known for pestering coaches about opponent information like routes so that he can get ahead of the opposing offense. He has that “first one in and the last one to leave” mentality when it comes to practice. He is great at learning the opposing offense and using that to out-think his opponents. This has led to fantastic results and to him being a shining star on that Cal defense. He is a student of the game.
As this is a strong defensive draft, it is far too early to really hone in on where he may fall but some have him as low as the 4th round. Others have him as high as mid-1st. If Bynum can have the season we expect him to, and a strong pre-draft showing, a 1st round pick is where he could and should go. If I’m a GM, I look at him as the next Richard Sherman. A smart and strong player with the work ethic to excel at the next level. Teams who pass on this young gun will be regretting it when he lines up against them.
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