2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Nick Ross, DB, Appalachian State
Player Data
| Name, Jersey # | Nick Ross #4 |
| School (Code) | Appalachian State University (NCAP) |
| Class Yr | rSR |
| Height, Weight | 5110, 185 |
| 40 Yd Dash | 4.55 |
| Position/Depth | FS 1 |
| Honors/Captainship | 2023 Team Captain, 2022 led team in TOT |
| Season Viewed (yr) | 2023 |
| Games Watched | NCUN, SCCC, NCGW |
| Scout Name / Date | Tyler Moore, 10/17/23 |
Per Year Stats (Most Recent First)
| 2023(after 6 games) | 6 GP, 6 GS, 43 TOT, 2 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU |
| 2022 | 12 GP, 12 GS, 73 TOT, 2 TFL, 3 PBU, 1 FF, 1 INT |
| 2021 | 14 GP, 2 GS, 21 TOT, 4 PBU |
| 2020 | 12 GP, 32 TOT, 1 INT, 1 FF |
| 2019 | 14 GP, 1 GS, 25 TOT, 3 PBU |
Player Summary:
A 2 year starter and 4th year role player who has played in various roles in the defensive backfield of a zone concept defense. Short in stature but well-built with long limbs, solid AA and solid play speed. Has played in both safety positions as well as some nickel and cornerback assignments. Has a strong understanding of the defense that allows him to play all over the field. Can be seen making pre snap adjustments as well as disguising coverages by using his football intelligence and quick decision making abilities. Is quick to drop into coverage and has a smooth back pedal with the eyes to adjust to downhill running as play develops. Smooth hip movements that allow him to adjust to in/out phase. Solid AA to match up in man coverages and the ability to transition into phase to match receivers. Does not avoid contact and will drive through blocks. Solid tackler who can attack the legs as well as harder hits at waist and chest level. Has solid leverage on blocks and tackle lanes. Solid ball skills, playing bigger than what he is to contest catches and attack arms of receivers.
Has inconsistencies with his footwork and ability to sink his hips which affects his CoD as his feet can be seen crossing each other and planting on the wrong leg when he wants to change directions. It also affects his ability to burst out of breaks.
Scheme Fit:
Best fit as a nickel corner who can move around the field to have the optimal matchup, play in zone coverages and still occasionally match up in man.
Power Statement:
A nickel corner who provides depth in the DB room with his position versatility, solid AA, solid play strength and intelligence as well as play in zone and man. His downsides can be fixed with coaching and can potentially be a significant role player as a nickel or safety.
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