Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Jairus Byrd (Oregon) - 2009 NFL Draft Pick #42 by BUF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Jairus Byrd (2009 NFL Draft)

Player Position: Safety

College: University of Oregon

Overview

Jairus Byrd was a standout safety during his college career at the University of Oregon. Known for his ball-hawking skills and ability to make plays in the secondary, Byrd was highly regarded leading up to the 2009 NFL Draft.

Strengths

• Ball Skills: Byrd demonstrated exceptional ability to intercept passes, showcasing his instincts and anticipation on the field.
• Coverage Ability: His versatility allowed him to cover both tight ends and wide receivers, making him a valuable asset in pass defense.
• Instincts: Byrd had an innate ability to read quarterbacks and react quickly, often putting him in the right position to make plays.
• Physicality: Despite his size, he was not afraid to step up and support against the run, tackling effectively and contributing to the defense.

Weaknesses

• Size: At 5'10", Byrd was considered undersized for a safety, potentially limiting his ability to match up against bigger receivers.
• Injury History: Concerns about past injuries could raise red flags for teams considering him in the early rounds.

Overall Assessment

Jairus Byrd was projected as one of the top safeties in the 2009 NFL Draft. His skill set and playmaking ability made him an intriguing prospect for teams in need of a playmaker in the secondary. While concerns about his size and injury history existed, his performance at Oregon and potential for impact at the next level made him a compelling choice for NFL teams.

Projected Draft Round:

Byrd was expected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 2009 NFL Draft based on his college performance and potential.