Malik Hartford: Scouting Report
Size
Malik Hartford has good height and length at the safety position. He has the build to continue to add weight and will fill out well in a college weight program. Hartford length is an asset in coverage where he has the reach to get to the football. He can be a deep safety but also has the size to be an effective defender in the box.
Athleticism
Hartford shows excellent acceleration and closing speed to make plays. While the burst is elite, he also has good speed for a player his size, showing plenty of range downfield. He changes directions well, showing a solid ability to flip his hips in coverage. Hartford is a good athlete in the secondary who accentuates his other abilities with his explosiveness.
Coverage Skills
Hartford has good range in the secondary and shows the instincts to be an effective deep safety. He reads the play well and understands his role in the coverage, making plays without taking unnecessary risks. Hartford shows good technique in man coverage, with an effective back pedal and the trust in his training to force the receiver to commit to the route before he does. He is a versatile defender who can play in a variety of coverage schemes.
Ball Skills
Hartford’s length is an asset making plays on the ball in coverage. He has experience playing receiver in high school, showing the ability to track and catch the ball. His instincts allow him to get a jump on the throw and get in good position to make the play. Hartford has the ability to find the football and does a good job of making a play on it downfield.
Run Support / Tackling
Hartford is a good tackler, he has the consistency to be trusted to make the play one on one and also shows the ability to deliver big hits. His instincts play against the run, where he tracks plays well and closes on the ball carrier quickly. Hartford is not shy taking on blockers and will fight through traffic to make the play.
Projection
Malik Hartford is a good safety who has the potential to develop into a star as he matures physically. He shows the instincts to be a play-maker in the secondary against the run or pass. Hartford has the tools to play in a variety of schemes and roles, he is likely to become an all conference type performer in college.
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