Jayron Kearse Scouting Report, DB, Clemson. 2016 NFL Draft

Introduction

Hometown: Fort Myers, Florida
High School: South Fort Myers
Recruitment: 4-Star Recruit by ESPN, 4-Star recruit by Rivals
Injuries/Discipline: Nothing notable

Awards:

2015 ACC Champion

Measurables

Height: 6'5"
Weight: 220
Class: Junior
Projected 40 Time: 4.54

Stats

2015: 60 tackles, 6.5 for a loss, 0 sacks, 1 interception, 6 pass defences, 1 forced fumble
2014: 61 tackles, 5 for a loss, 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, 5 pass defences
2013: 41 tackles, 4 interceptions, 1 forced fumble, 0 pass defences.

Positives

• Excellent size
• Can intimidate players over the middle.
• Good change of direction ability
• Excellent length
• Good pass rusher
• Sniffs out the ball when playing at the line
• Good heritage (Uncle Javon Kearse & cousin Phillip Buchanon)
• Good man coverage defender against big TE's.
• Knows how to use his size in the red-zone
• Shows good awareness and intelligence
• Extremely competitive
• Film hound.

Negatives

• Doesn't always take the right angle
• Doesn't always wrap up the ball carrier
• Doesn't have elite speed.
• Can play a little recklessly

Conclusion

Jayron Kearse is a big time player with big time size. He has all the traits to be an outstanding safety in the NFL, although not a first round talent, he'll likely hear his name called towards the end of the 2nd round or start of the 3rd. Before 2015 I would have said he was a ball-hawk. Based on his 2014 film, he was all over the field making plays. He's played within himself this year, limiting his play-making ability, although his pure coverage ability has improved.

He matches up well with athletic tight ends because of his size, and that could be very appealing to a lot of teams in the NFL. He absolutely loves football, and that's evident when you hear him speak. He's supremely confident in his own ability. He's competitive and he's tough and he plays a very similar style to Seahawks defensive back Kam Chancellor.

Some have suggested that he should return to school for another year, mainly due to him not looking as fluid in 2015 as he did in 2014, but I think he's ready to make the jump and I think someone will grab him in the 2nd round.

Draft Grade: 79

90-100 = Exceptional Talent
80-90 = Impact Player
70-80 = NFL Starter
60-70 = Solid NFL Potential
50-60 = Draftable - Lot of work needed
>50 = Undraftable, - Long Shot To Stick