MATT ELAM (EDIT: Originally posted March 26th.)
5’10”, 208 lbs. , Florida
Strengths:
-Extremely fast, Active to the ball
-Very good in pass coverage and can cover large areas of ground
-Versatility, Can play Free or Strong Safety
Weaknesses:
-Too often goes for big hit instead of wrapping up
-Overly aggressive
-Improve tackling fundamentals
Elam was an incredibly consistent performer for the Gators over the past few seasons. He’s a fast physical tackler and one of the main reasons why Florida had one of the toughest defenses in all of college football.
His physical presence should fit in well with the pro game though he must improve his overzealous tackling to adapt to the NFL’s flag happy rules. Elam also excels in coverage as his speed allows him to span most of the field. His play can allow corner backs to play more aggressively without fear of getting beat due to Elam’s coverage abilities. His size and tenacity should make him solid in run support once he cleans up his technique.
Another thing that sets Elam apart from others at his position besides athleticism are his instincts. He skill set makes him sound better suited for a Strong Safety but in the proper system he could fit as a Free as well. He possess solid ball skills and can also fit in right away on Special Teams where he starred in college as well.
Most likely Texas Safety Kenny Vaccaro will be chosen first but Elam is not bad as a second option. He projects out as a late first round-second round selection and seems to be a good fit for Baltimore’s new look defense. You have to wonder though, would they feel comfortable with a rookie manning the back line?
Matt has lived in Maryland his entire life and is a graduate of Calvert Hall and Towson University. has always been an avid Baltimore sports fan. Since 2007, he has been writing and talking about Baltimore sports, especially the Ravens. His work has appeared on Ravens Gab, Russell Street Report, and he currently co-hosts a podcast “The Blitz- A Ravens podcast” with Brent Harris.