2016 NFL Scouting Notes: William Jackson, CB, Houston

2016 NFL Scouting Notes: William Jackson, CB, Houston

By Lijah Spencer (@tweaked74)
Finishing off our Cornerback segment of Scouting Notes, tonight we look at a player who almost entered the NFL draft last year, but after being told he had a 3rd round grade assigned to him he opted to return to Houston for his senior season. Here are my notes:

William Jackson. 6’1. 185 lbs. Houston

The Positives

1) At 6’1 he has good NFL size that is coveted as the “prototypical” player type in today’s defenses.

2) He is good in coverage, usually playing off coverage but occasionally coming up to press as well.

The Negatives

1) Jackson too often doesn’t turn his head while in coverage resulting in penalties or giving up plays.

2) He is a below average tackler

3) Has OK speed, not great speed

William Jackson is the type of player who will entice both scouts and GM’s alike with his size and potential, but they should not overlook his flaws. He is good in coverage, but I don’t see him as the “lockdown” corner that Houston considers him to be. He often doesn’t turn his head to look for the ball while in coverage, and either draws flags because of this, or just gives up the play. He plays mostly off coverage, which is a sign that his speed is not great, and he often gives his WR too much cushion, allowing him to make an easy 7 yard catch. Jackson’s tackling ability is below average, especially for his size. This season will be important for a player like Jackson, if he improves his fundamentals he could turn into a productive player at the next level, he does have the “tools”, but if he doesn’t I would be wary of drafting him based on size and potential alone.