6’0″ – 217 lbs. – 4.47
Played running back in high school, but originally attended college as a cornerback. Redshirted in 2014, then transitioned to Tech’s Rover position the following year. Started eight of thirteen games as a redshirt freshman, thirteen of fourteen as a sophomore, and ten games as a junior before declaring for the draft. Excellent bloodlines; father Ferrell was a pro tight end, and brother and teammate Tremaine is a projected first-round pick in this year’s class. Has excellent size and bulk for a pro safety, with a particularly well-developed upper body. Versatile prospect who lines up all over the formation and could provide a defensive coordinator with some flexibility in designing their defense; can play in the box, can cover in the slot, can line up over bunch formations, and can function as more of a traditional high safety. Good athlete who has enough speed to play in deep zones or cover slot receivers across the middle of the field; however, speed is somewhat constrained by technical issues with his footwork, such as turning away from receivers instead of into their body. Instincts are just adequate; can be a little bit slow to process, resulting in him getting to the sideline slightly too late to provide safety help over the top. At times will let receivers get behind him by biting on play fakes or failing to get enough depth in his drops; consequently, looks more comfortable playing in the box or in man coverage in the slot. Has the speed and closing burst to get in front of receivers in man coverage and break up passes, although he is inconsistent in terms of making the plays he’s able to get to. Needs to do a better job of getting his head around to locate the ball so he can capitalize on the opportunities his length and athleticism present. Pretty good tackler who can cover a lot of ground and has the size, length, and technique to bring down ballcarriers in the open field. Only missed three tackles in nearly three-hundred snaps against the run this past season. Not the physical enforcer some teams look for in their strong safeties but plays with discipline in his run fits and doesn’t take unnecessary risks when flowing to the ball. Understands run fits and can help set the edge. Underwent shoulder surgery this past season which will require further investigation. Has all of the physical and athletic tools to develop into a versatile starting safety, but instincts and technique are in need of additional polish.
DRAFTEXAMINER 