Nigel Bradham 2012 NFL Draft prospect notes

Nigel Bradham
6'2, 240 pounds | Linebacker | Florida State

First word: Florida State has done a nice job of producing good defensive players.  They have had plenty of defenders selected in the first round of the NFL draft.  This upcoming draft will feature a number of Florida State prospects including linebacker Nigel Bradham.

Bradham is an athletic linebacker with the speed to cover sideline to sideline.  Once he identifies the football, he uses his good short area burst to close.  His quickness also helps him hold up on pass coverage.  Bradham is a 4 down player that can contribute on special teams and doesn't need to be replaced on passing downs.

However, Bradham isn't an explosive player and is hesitant to attack the ball.  He is able to locate the football and has the quickness to purse but he just doesn't make a ton of plays.  A successful linebacker is expected to always be around the football and make tackles.  He also makes to many tackles down field rather than behind the line of scrimmage.

Overall, Bradham needs to show more urgency and tenacity pursing the football in order to raise his draft stock.  He possesses all the physically abilities to be successful but needs to go that little extra to be a force.

Bold statement: Bradham's speed and quickness will help his draft stock more than his on the field play

Games viewed: North Carolina ('10), Virginia Tech ('10), Oklahoma ('10)

Nigel Bradham
6'2, 240 pounds | Linebacker | Florida State

Notes:

• Bradham has good quickness with the ability to cover sideline to sideline
• He has a good short area burst that allows him to close on the football
• In pass coverage, Bradham is able to use his athletic ability to hold up in both man and zone coverage
• Bradham is a 4 down player with the ability to contribute on special teams
• It appears as though Bradham is playing at half speed and hesitant to attack the ball
• When he does attack the line he attempts to avoid blockers rather than stacking and shedding
• He just doesn't make enough plays or tackles