Film Don't Lie | Justyn Rhett
6’1” corners are great. 6’1” corners with elite speed are ideal, which is why Justyn Rhett is such a significant pickup for Notre Dame.
The Bishop Gorman product has awesome physical tools that can help him develop into one of the best corners in college football. The Irish are off to a fantastic start on defense in the class of 2023 and adding Rhett to what they already have at defensive line, linebacker, and safety looks like the start of something special in the cycle.
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 190
Projected Position: Cornerback
ISD Grade: 92 (4-star)
National Average Grade: 92.6 (4-star)
What he does best:
He can flat out run. At his age and at his size, running a 4.43 at Notre Dame’s camp is eye-popping. He has that speed and he can sink his hips and explode to the ball. He’s a smooth athlete with his transitions.
He shows good recognition and as a receiver on offense, he has the ball skills and ability to track the ball well.
Rhett can play off coverage, but what really makes him intriguing is his ability to play press man. He has a physical edge to his game.
When combined with his make-up speed, that can be special.
He battled 2022 Notre Dame commit CJ Williams at a Rivals camp and proved he can match up with that kind of talent at receiver.
What he needs to improve:
He can get overzealous with his jam at time and needs to be feet first to stay under control.
He can tackle, but I’d like to see better recognition in the run game.
It’s unclear how much he's been targeted at Bishop Gorman and the ball production isn’t there on his publicaly available junior film. It might not be a red flag, but that’s something at least worth mentioning.
What’s his ceiling?
He has elite offers for a reason. His physical traits are outstanding and anyone at his size with his ball skills, fluidity, and speed has a chance to develop into a very high NFL Draft pick.
He should physically be talented enough to play very early at Notre Dame and it will come down to how technically proficient he is when arrives on campus.
Who he could be:
Former Virginia Tech cornerback Caleb Farley
(Or a bigger Troy Pride)