Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

James Sample (Louisville) - 2015 NFL Draft Pick #104 by JAX

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Pre-Draft Analysis for James Sample (2015 NFL Draft)

Player Overview:

James Sample was a safety from the University of Louisville, known for his athleticism and playmaking ability on the field. He showcased his skills in both coverage and run support during his college career, making him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their secondary.

Strengths:

• Physicality: Sample displayed a strong, physical playing style, often contributing in run support and tackling effectively.
• Coverage Skills: He showed good instincts in coverage, with the ability to read quarterbacks and make plays on the ball.
• Versatility: Sample had experience playing both strong and free safety positions, which added to his value as a versatile defensive back.
• Athleticism: His athletic profile, including speed and agility, allowed him to cover ground quickly and make plays in the secondary.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistency: There were moments in college where Sample struggled with consistency, particularly in coverage against faster receivers.
• Injury History: Concerns regarding past injuries raised some red flags for scouts, as durability is crucial for a safety in the NFL.
• Technique: While he had the physical tools, Sample needed refinement in his tackling technique and angle taking to prevent missed tackles.

Draft Projection:

James Sample was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2015 NFL Draft. His combination of size, athleticism, and experience made him a desirable option, especially for teams looking for depth in their secondary.

Conclusion:

James Sample was viewed as a player with potential upside, but with some concerns that teams would need to address at the next level. His ability to contribute on special teams also added to his draft value.