T.J. McDonald NFL Draft prospect notes

T.J. McDonald
6'3, 205 pounds | Safety | Southern California

First word: There are few more complete safeties in the 2012 NFL Draft than McDonald. He's not a flashy pass defender like Ed Reed or an intimidating box safety against the run. He's just a very good all-around safety with good size and athleticism.

McDonald's game compares favorably to Nick Collins of the Green Bay Packers. He'll make the occasional big play playing deep, but is strong and smart enough to play the run near the line.

Notes:

• Excels covering tight ends because he has the size and change-of-direction ability to play them in man situations.

• Has played the slot covering wide receivers, and does well enough. He'll have trouble with incredibly quick receivers, but he can be dependable enough.

• Shows good instincts to break on slants and disrupt the pass. Will get overzealous at times trying to make an interception.

• Showed good hands in 2010, picking off three passes and coming close on several others.

• Against the run, McDonald shows good instincts to understand where the play is going to develop.

• Closes on the ball carrier showing excellent pursuit. Is a good enough tackler and doesn't simply like to go for the kill shot.

• Looks the part. Has a big frame with a lot of room to grow and get bigger if needed.