CNNSI.com NFL Draft 2002


 
Grading System
Wesley Mallard | S | Oregon | Pacific-10 Conference
Selected by New York Giants in round 6, pick 16 (188 overall)
Height Weight 40 Grade
6'1½ 221 4.53 3.45
First-year starter formerly a special teams player early in his career. Led the team in tackles last year totaling 98/2/3 for the season. Posted 26 tackles as a junior, half of them coming on special teams. Played outside linebacker for the Ducks but projects to safety.

Athletic prospect that improved greatly as a senior and may be finally coming into his own. Breaks down well, plays with leverage and fluid moving about the field. Displays good sideline-to-sideline range and covers a large amount of area. Gets depth on his pass drops, quickly breaks on the ball, displaying a burst of closing speed. Physical, likes to mix it up and gets involved in the action. Not always quick to react or anticipate the action, hesitant and slow picking up his assignments. Lacks the great hands for the interception. Headed in the right direction and possesses both the size/speed numbers and tenacity needed for a run stiffing safety or at the very least a good special teams player at the next level. Late Fifth Round.

TFY Draft Preview
 


 
CNNSI