Stingley Jr. is one of the more naturally gifted players in the 2022 NFL draft, but in 2020-2021, he took a step back while at LSU. As a true freshman in 2019, Stingley was one the best man-to-man cover corners in college football, showing that he could go toe to toe with some of the best WR's in college football. He has endured coaching changes at his position and had to work through some injuries in the last few seasons, so he does deserve some benefit of the doubt. The reality is, he is still a physically gifted player who possesses high-level athletic traits that NFL teams want in a high-level NFL DB.

Derek Stingley projects is a projected man-to-man coverage defender in the NFL. He can play outside, where he can put his high-level athleticism to use. His strength, elite speed, and fluid hips are traits that will allow him to match up well against the more physically gifted NFL receivers.

Even though he is best at man to man, he is an instinctual zone coverage defender who plays with good eyes. He can diagnose route concepts and does a great job covering space to close on his man and the football and make a tackle in space.

Stingley does a great job high pointing the football in 50/50 situations. He is a player who possesses excellent hands and can physically snatch a football away from a receiver. He can also tackle well in the run game and has displayed positional flexibility by playing nickel and safety roles.

Stingley is an elite prospect but lost some traction the last few seasons. He has instant impact level potential at the NFL level. To reach his full potential, he must get back to being a more consistent player.