Scouting The Draft: Eric Reid, S - LSU

Introduction

It was no surprise when Eric decided to forgo his senior season with LSU and instead elect to declare for the 2013 NFL draft. He had a good year at LSU and was a first team All-American with five different outlets and All SEC First team selection with four different outlets. He's flown a little under the radar so far this off-season but he put in an impressive combine performance and is fighting to be the 2nd safety taken in this years draft.

Measurables

Height: 6'1

Weight: 213 lb's

Arms: 33 5/8"

Hands: 10"

40 yard: 4.53 seconds (Top performer)

Bench: 17 reps

Vertical: 40'5" (Top performer)

Broad: 134" (Top Performer)

3 Cone: 6.99 seconds

20 yard shuttle: 4.22 seconds

Statistics

Positives

There is a lot to like about Reid and he's not too dissimilar to another LSU prospect that Jets fans will be familiar with - Laron Landry. He has excellent read and react skills, plays downhill better than most defensive backs in the draft. Hits like a ton of bricks and has good acceleration. Has prototypical size and length for the position. His length allows him to wrap up tacklers and his closing speed is good. He is a very physical player who matches up well with the tight end. Can play deep in coverage or up at the line. Has very good leaping ability and his toughness and physicality means he comes down with 50-50 balls more often than not. Has good if not exceptional straight line speed. Although he hasn't had a ton of interceptions, he does play the ball well. Intimidation is a big factor with Reid, receivers will feel him coming and when he lays the wood - well receivers don't get up straight away.

Negatives

Can be a little too over-aggressive and can bite on play-action and misdirection. Sometimes just needs to wrap up the ball-carrier rather than try and lay him out. Doesn't always take the best angles to the ball carrier, and needs to play with more control at the next level. Can be too physical and will get flagged for pass interference and late hits on occasions. Not a great match with quicker more agile players who change direction smoothly, will get turned around and can be stiff turning to run - his stiff hips are a concern.

Conclusion

Eric Reid drives me absolutely mad. In some contests he is the best player on the field and in some he can be a liability. However when he is on his game, he is a top 15 talent. He hits like a linebacker but runs like a defensive back. He isn't a million miles away from Kenny V of Texas, and he is a perfect example of there being plenty of talent at the safety position down the draft.

Would I draft him for the Jets?

If he was there in the 2nd round, then I would find it hard to pass up. He is just a talented guy who needs to be coached up. He is a Landry type close and we all saw that he could make a big difference. I really like the talent and I think Rex Ryan would love to work with a player who works this hard, and who plays with this kind of physicality.

Highlights