Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan: 2017 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Sep 24, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) is seen during the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Jabrill Peppers figures to be one of the most polarizing players in the 2017 NFL draft. So where does his scouting report put him?

Position: S

School: Michigan

Year: Sophomore

Height: 6’1″

Weight: 208 lbs

History:

Played multiple positions in high school and helped his team win two state championships before transferring and winning two more. He also set records as a track athlete in the 100-meter dash. Was one of the most highly-coveted athletes in the nation, ranked #2 by ESPN. He verbally committed to Michigan on live television.

STRENGTHS:

This play showcases everything that Peppers does well at the safety position. His body handles the physicality near the line of scrimmage. He shows good awareness to track where the football goes and then showcases that closing speed to drop the quarterback for a game-clinching sack.

WEAKNESSES:

Having the speed and applying it to the maximum are two different things in football. Even fast guys can get burned in the NFL. This play doesn’t reflect well on Peppers. He allows the receiver to get a clean break through the second, is too late to recognize it and the quarterback has an easy pitch and catch for a touchdown. A play that Peppers could’ve and should’ve prevented had he diagnosed it quicker.

Pro Comparison: Adrian Wilson

Peppers and Wilson were bot elite athlete coming out of college at safety. Still, Wilson had the stigma of being a liability in coverage at N.C. State. He only had three interceptions. Many wondered if he could ever figure that part of the game out. Safe to say he did. He went to five Pro Bowls in his career and snagged 27 interceptions. Peppers may have even more upside. If the light goes on in the coverage department, offenses will learn to fear him.

Projection: Late 1st round

Right now scouts are wary of Peppers. They love his physical prowess to a man but fear his lack of progression as a complete safety. That’s too much of a red flag to consider taking with a top 10 or 15 pick but there will be one team in the late 1st willing to take the risk. He just has way too much upside to let slip too far.