Jaden Hicks is Rising on draft boards! Could he become the top-rated safety?

The safety position in the 2024 NFL draft class has been underwhelming, to say the least. However, amidst the mediocrity, there are a few players showing star potential, and one of them is Washington State’s Jaden Hicks.

Hicks, a standout on a struggling Washington State roster, emerged as a bright spot on their defense throughout the season.

Known for his ability to take precise angles in pursuit of the ball carrier, Hicks is a high-energy player who thrives on action. He demonstrates excellent ball-tracking skills and possesses the timing to avoid penalties. Additionally, he excels in zone coverage, showcasing quickness and the ability to cover ground from sideline to sideline. Despite his smaller stature, Hicks isn’t afraid to be physical downfield and can effectively match up against larger receivers. While he shows promise in man coverage, he occasionally struggles with choppy footwork in his backpedal and can lack instincts, leading to conservative and hesitant play.

Nevertheless, Hicks has all the makings of a future star safety in the league. His skill set should undoubtedly draw the attention of teams in need of safety talent.