South Florida NFL draft bio: Mike Jenkins

By Darrell Laurant  |   Thursday, February 21, 2008  |  Comments( 0 )

South Florida Bulls
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You won't catch Mike Jenkins hunched over his computer these days, seeking out mock drafts to see which NFL team might make him rich. That's because he doesn't own a computer.

He does, however, own a reputation as a playmaker with both speed and strength. At 6 feet, 200 pounds, he's the ideal size for a cornerback, and he managed to put his mark on South Florida's 2007 season despite teams avoiding his side of the field whenever possible.

The Bradenton product still managed 12 pass breakups, three interceptions and 41 tackles. Jenkins gets to the ball with 4.5 speed (he'd like to be a little faster), and has the wingspan of a player several inches taller.

Along with teammate Trae Williams, who was also invited to this week's Combine, Jenkins turned South Florida into "Cornerback U" for 2007. They were the primary reasons why the Bulls finished eight nationally in pass efficiency defense.

For three years, the two corners complemented -- and complimented -- each other. Now, they'll no doubt be going their separate ways. Jenkins is projected to be the first Bull ever chosen in the first round, while Williams is projected as a second-rounder.

Jenkins will no doubt have to answer a lot of questions about an incident last spring when he and teammate Carlton Williams were hit with a misdemeanor charge of obstructing a police officer. But he kept his nose clean after that, lending credence to his contention that the incident was out of character for him.

He also received some criticism for pulling out of the Senior Bowl at the last minute, but Jenkins has demonstrated his determination by enrolling in a "speed camp" and working out ferociously.

"I definitely got my 40 time down," he said, "and I feel stronger."

Jenkins didn't look too slow to the Cincinnati Bearcats last season, though, slicing through them for a 100-yard kickoff return.
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