Finding Broncos: AJ Finley | S | Ole Miss
Measurements
- Height: 6-foot-2
- Weight: 202 pounds
- Arms: 32-1/2 inches
- Hands: 9-3/4 inches
Stats
Pros
- Has good positional and scheme versatility to play multiple roles for a defense.
- Can work in the slot and boundary, but did look best as a safety.
- Has great range and instincts in coverage.
- Triggers quickly when he diagnoses a run.
- Takes good angles to meet with the ball.
- More than a willing tackler and unafraid to be physical.
- Possess a high football IQ, which shows consistently with his feel in coverage.
- He has solid length and uses it well as a tackler and in coverage.
- Timed aggression and calculated risk taker.
- Does well carrying receivers down the field on vertical shots.
- Great ball skills and has the production to match.
- Has plenty of experience.
Cons
- Thin frame and could use a little more meat.
- Has to put all of his body into his tackling.
- Tackling technique is solid, but may need to revamp it.
- Can get baited when caught watching the quarterback's eyes.
- Has had some injuries in his playing career.
- Can get overaggressive when triggering against the run.
- Can get caught flat-footed in space.
Overview
If Finely was about 10 pounds heavier and was able to stay on the field consistently throughout his career, he is probably a top 150 pick. His range and physicality in coverage are perfect for what the NFL is looking for in their safeties. He is aggressive in coverage but calculated with the risks he will take when jumping routes. There are plenty of traits to work with, but you have to add more mass to his frame without ruining his range and athleticism.
Fit with Broncos
Even though the Broncos have Justin Simmons, they could realistically move on from him this offseason or next, and their safety room already needs help. Caden Sterns has dealt with some injuries and hasn't been able to see the field consistently.
Finley has good versatility to work in the scheme Vance Joseph is bringing with him and could even compete to be a top 3 safety in the room for this upcoming season. However, with the Bronco's history of injuries, Finley might be more of a risk than they are willing to take at the moment.
Grade: Top 175
Projecting Draft Slot: Round 5
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