2024 FCS NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jackson State DB John Huggins

We take an in-depth look at Jackson State defensive back John Huggins, who is one of the top FCS prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft

Jackson State DB John Huggins

Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 211 lbs
Career Statistics: 109 Total Tackles, 11.5 Tackles For Loss, 2.5 Sacks, 3 INTs, 11 Pass Breakups
Accolades: Third Team All-SWAC (Phil Steele; 2022)

Jackson State FS John Huggins (6) celebrates a good play during their homecoming NCAA college football game against Campbell in Jackson, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022 :: © Hannah Mattix/Clarion Ledger / USA TODAY NETWORK

Background Report:

John Huggins' football career has been a testament to resilience and adaptability. Starting his high school journey at Pine Ridge High School before transferring to Mainland High School, Huggins showcased his talent early on, sharing the field with future NFL wide receiver Nathaniel "Tank" Dell. His performances earned him a three-star prospect rating by 247Sports, leading to his commitment to the University of Florida amid offers from several Division I schools.

During his first year, Huggins played in all eight games as a reserve defensive back and was a key member of Florida's special teams. He totaled three tackles, one tackle for loss, and one interception throughout the season. Huggins was dismissed from Florida and transferred to Robert Morris in 2019. During his sole season at Robert Morris, Huggins totaled eight tackles and two for loss in three games.

Huggins transferred to Garden City Community College after a brief stint with Robert Morris. During the 2021 spring season at Garden City, Huggins totaled 24 tackles, 0.5 sacks, and one interception in only four games. Huggins transferred to Jackson State for the 2021 fall season. During his first year at Jackson State, Huggins totaled 43 tackles, three for loss, and six passes defended in 13 games. In 2022, Huggins totaled 31 tackles, 5.5 for loss, 2.5 sacks, one interception, and three passes defended in ten games.

Huggins transferred after the 2022 season to New Mexico State during the spring of 2023. He ended up transferring back to Jackson State ahead of the 2023 season. In 2023, Huggins totaled 35 tackles, three for loss, two interceptions, and two passes defended in ten games.

Scouting Report:

At 6-foot-1 and 211 lbs, John Huggins possesses the ideal box safety/linebacker hybrid build. His strong lower half and balanced weight distribution allow him to engage physically in the game. His short-area quickness and good speed enable him to close on the ball carrier effectively, while his length aids in contesting passes and handling physical engagements with opponents.

Huggins' play style is defined by his physicality, particularly in run defense, where his ability to shed blockers and pursue the ball carrier stands out. However, his man coverage skills show limitations, especially against quick and elusive receivers, indicating an area for improvement. Huggins' best fit appears within shallow zones, leveraging his aptitude for reading and reacting to plays, albeit with room to enhance his tackling efficiency in open spaces.

Projection: Round 7 - PFA

Projected as a fringe NFL roster prospect, John Huggins' versatility and physical attributes make him a valuable asset, particularly in schemes that align with his strengths in run defense and zone coverage. Focusing on refining his coverage technique and improving his tackling in space will be critical for Huggins to maximize his potential and secure a place in the NFL. Additionally, his special teams contributions highlight a player with the versatility and a way to be valuable early in his career.

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