Cornerback Deantre Prince was the first Ole Miss football player off the board in the 2024 NFL Draft.
While most expected Cedric Johnson to be the first Ole Miss football player picked in the 2024 NFL Draft, there was a surprise twist. Cornerback Deantre Prince was the first Rebel selected, heading to Jacksonville with the 153rd overall pick.
The Fresh Prince of #DUUUVAL
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) April 27, 2024
We have selected Ole Miss CB Deantre Prince with the 153rd overall pick!@Dream_Finders | @prince_deantre pic.twitter.com/xoXq1cniyC
Prince's journey is a true testament to his resilience and determination. After his freshman season in 2019, the Mississippi native spent a year in community college, only to return to Oxford for his final three seasons in college. It's lead to his selection by the Jaguars in the fifth round on April 27.
The Shrine Bowl's Director of Football Operations, Eric Galko, expressed his confidence in Prince's fit in Jacksonville on his 'X' account.
"Deantre Prince is an awesome fit for the and an great value here in the 5th. He’s physical and smooth as an outside cornerback, and has outstanding perimeter/downfield speed (4.38 forty at the Combine). He + Jarrian Jones are great DB additions." Galko said on his social media post.
Prince had a top-30 visit with Jacksonville earlier in the process, and the Jags clearly liked what they heard from the fifth-year senior.
During his four seasons with the Rebels, Prince tallied 145 tackles, 6 interceptions, and 21 pass break-ups. He has put in some gritty performances over the years, with good athleticism and good instincts, especially against the run.