Jacoby Mathews: Scouting Report
Size
Jacoby Mathews has excellent size for a safety. He has above average height and a thick frame that will allow him to carry good weight as he matures. He is muscular and already looks the part of college safety. He should continue to get bigger as he fills out. Mathews is big enough play in the box and could grow into more of a hybrid S/LB role.
Athleticism
Mathews has solid speed and shows the range to play over the top. His acceleration is excellent as he shows the burst to get up to speed quickly. Mathews has surprising lateral quickness for a player his size, displaying surprising flexibility and nimble feet. He has a rare blend of size and athleticism that will help him be a star in college.
Coverage Skills
Mathews has good instincts in coverage. He is comfortable playing over the top and making plays downfield or breaking on plays in front of him. Mathews shows surprising flexibility in man coverage where he does a good job of shadowing receivers. He can get a little handsy at times and needs to refine his coverage technique, but that will come with experience.
Ball Skills
Mathews does a good job of tracking the ball and has the strength to fight receivers for it in contested situations. His leaping ability helps him make a play on jump-balls against bigger receivers. Mathews has the hands to make the interception and the ability to make a big play with the ball in his hands. He has game changing ability when the ball is thrown his way.
Run Support / Tackling
Mathews clearly has the size and physicality to be an asset in run support. He has solid form when he tackles and is a violent hitter who plays with good power. Mathews closes on the ball carrier in a hurry and is strong fighting through blockers to get to the ball. He is a striker in the secondary that will intimidate offensive players.
Projection
Jacoby Mathews has a rare size/athleticism combo that will help him be a versatile defender at the next level. He is a complete player who can impact the game in all facets on defense. Mathews is a high level prospect who is likely to develop into an all conference type performer at in college.
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