STRENGTHS

• Though a number of scouts and NFL team’s have him projected at the CB position…his skill sets dictate the FS position his best chance of success transitioning to the NFL level
• As a projected FS prospect…though he possesses the same athletic traits when evaluated as a CB…those same athletic traits crossover transitioning to the NFL level much more favorably
• If moved to the FS position at the next level…would only enhance his (somewhat questionable) inconsistency tackling skills…in moving back at FS would provide him the opportunity to better survey the field and take improved tackling angles on ball carriers
• Moving to the FS position will allow his pre-snap diagnosing of plays even more effective when he is playing further from the LOS
• His leadership skills and glue to the defense he exhibited at the collegiate level…will be better utilized now at FS on the back end of the defense
• His football IQ will better utilized able to survey the entire field…and keeping plays in front of him
• Some of the concerns that were issues when projected at the CB position…questionable feet…athleticism…and quick burst in & out of cuts will be minimized moving to FS
• Moving to FS will allow him to gain a better jump on the ball being a distance from the LOS…and better utilize his anticipation skills as a football player
• He maintains good location of the ball throughout plays on the field
• He displays an aggressive mindset when pursuing ball carriers
• He is not a player who shies away from contact
• He displays an effective & aggressive style when running down coverage kicks on special teams…which should only add to his value as a prospect for some NFL team’s

WEAKNESSES

• He lacks the ideal quickness…lateral movement…and athleticism for the FS position
• Will need to improve his inconsistency tackling ball players in space (but the move back from LOS should help his effectiveness)
• Like to see more pop on initial contact with ball carriers…especially being the last line of defense for that side of ball
• Needs to improve tackling technique as one side shoulder tackler…and square up more on tackles
• His inability to consistently judge passes on downfield throws are a concern…as possible liability
• Lack of on field catch-up speed on downfield pass is a concern…but should be minimized with him further back from LOS
• When the opportunity present itself…he lacks the consistency in his hands to bring in TO’s that come his direction

PROJECTED ROUND

1st Round (Top 10)

MY VALUE BOARD

2nd Round (Mid)

SUMMARY

• The move to FS for Fitzpatrick will greatly enhance his chance for success at the NFL level.
• Looking forward to his progress at FS if moved to his NATURAL position at the NFL level.

Profile by: (Ken Becks aka TheScoout) 

@1stDown_Scout