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2023 NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Report: Otis Reese, S, Mississippi

Otis Reese possesses great size and versatility as a defender for the Mississippi Rebels. Hula Bowl scout Jake Kernen breaks down Reese's strengths and weaknesses as an NFL Prospect in his report.
Otis Reese possesses great size and versatility as a defender for the Mississippi Rebels. Hula Bowl scout Jake Kernen breaks down Reese’s strengths and weaknesses as an NFL Prospect in his report.

Player Data

Name, Jersey #Otis Reese, #3
School (Code)MSUN
DOB, Class Yr7/2/1998, RS Senior
Height, Weight6020, 225
40 Yd Dash4.54
Arms, Hands3258, 0812
Position/DepthSS, LB, Nickel
Honors/Captainship
Season Viewed (yr)2022
Games WatchedMississippi St, Alabama, @ Texas A&M
Scout Name / DateJake Kernen 11/30/2022

Per Year Stats (Most Recent First)

2022 (MSUN)Played in all 12 games thus far. 81 tackles, 7 TFLs, 3 sacks, 1 INT, 3 PDs, 1 FR
2021 (MSUN)Started all 13 games. 91 tackles, 2 TFLs, 1.5 sacks, 2 PDs, 1 FF
2020 (MSUN)Was ineligible to play until the last 3 games due to transfer rules. 23 tackles, 1 INT, 1 PD.
2019 (GAUN)Played in 14 games, started 1 game. 3 tackles.
2018 (GAUN)Played in 11 games, started 1 game. 13 tackles. 

Player Summary:

Transfer from UGA. Impressive size and length for his position. Thick lowers, looks more like a linebacker than a prototypical safety. Average speed for the position. Plays at every level of the defense for MSUN although primarily as an inside-the-box safety providing run support. Instinctual and quick processor. Physical player, willing to attack the POA and take on blockers. Capable of setting the edge and holding contain. Needs to work on shedding blockers rather than just impacting them. Tracks the ball carrier well, impressive vision to sift through traffic. Very good motor and pursuit. Plays under control, breaking down and making solid form tackles. Capable pass rusher off the edge. Smooth in backpedal, fluid hips. Not a twitchy player, causing him to lose a step on elite receivers in man. Can panic and get grabby with receivers when he gets beat. High level zone discipline, recognizes passing concepts and what the offense is trying to do. His biggest weakness will be how he is utilized, as he doesn’t fit any position perfectly and could struggle if he is expected to be a strict coverage player. Similar build and game to Mark Barron, former Alabama SAF. 

Scheme Fit:

Projects as a robber/inside-the-box safety, will be most effective in a defense that moves him around and takes advantage of his diverse skill set. 

Power Statement:

Dynamic playmaker that can cover as well as pass rush, Reese projects as an immediate contributor that will thrive in a robber role-playing in the box and threatening the LOS. 

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