Georgia cornerback Kamari Lassiter is among the most competitive defensive prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. Lassiter is physically combative, both in the contact window and at the catch point. Lassiter plays bigger than his size (5-11, 186).
Lassiter enters the 2024 NFL Draft as a two-year starter for the Bulldogs. The Savannah, Georgia native recorded 75 tackles, 8.5 for a loss, and 12 pass breakups across the previous two campaigns. NFL evaluators will want to see Lassiter develop better ball skills—he intercepted just one pass at Georgia, and that came in 2021.
Although there are some speed, size, and production questions present, Lassiter projects as a starting-caliber corner. Lassiter is a sticky, scheme-versatile defender. We've identified three ideal team fits for Lassiter in the 2024 NFL Draft.
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
New head coach Jim Harbaugh inherited a defense that allowed a 30th-ranked 249.8 passing yards per game. That's not going to fly for Harbaugh, who coached an outstanding Michigan defense last season. It's not apples to apples, but by comparison, the Wolverines ranked second in the entire nation in that department, allowing a stingy 152.6 air yards per contest.
Harbaugh will emphasize fielding a more disciplined secondary. The Chargers currently have Asante Samuel Jr. at the position and not much else. Michael Davis, who played 885 snaps last season, signed with the Washington Commanders in unrestricted free agency. Deane Leonard and Ja'Sir Taylor aren't starting-caliber boundary defenders. Look for Harbaugh and Horitz to draft a cornerback in Lassiter's mold at either No. 37 or 69 overall.
TENNESSEE TITANS
The initial expectation in Nashville was that the Titans would prioritize a wide receiver with their second-round pick (No. 38). That belief has changed after general manager Ran Carthon signed Calvin Ridley to a lucrative four-year deal. Cornerback has suddenly become a bigger need.
Both of the Titans' 2023 starting cornerbacks are no longer with the franchise. Kristian Fulton remains a free agent, and Sean Murphy-Bunting signed with the Cardinals. Chidobe Awuzie was signed to fill one of those spots, but the opposite boundary starter looks like he'll have to arrive via the draft. The Titans reportedly showed interest in Lassiter at Georgia's Pro Day. I'd expect Lassiter to appear on Tennessee's shortlist when they come on the clock early in the second round.
ARIZONA CARDINALS
Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort is entering the draft with an astounding seven selections in the opening 104 picks. Ossenfort also confirmed that he’ll entertain offers for the No. 4 selection, opening the possibility that he’ll acquire even more picks. It makes sense because the Cardinals' roster is littered with holes all over.
Jonathan Gannon is a defensive-minded head coach who requires more talent at his disposal. Murphy-Bunting was a quality addition, and last year's third-rounder Garrett Williams may take a step forward as a sophomore. I still expect Ossenfort to add another young cornerback along the way, possibly at pick 35, 66, or 71. Lassiter's competitive mindset would endear itself to Gannon.
