Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Obi Melifonwu (Connecticut) - 2017 NFL Draft Pick #56 by OAK

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Obi Melifonwu (2017 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Obi Melifonwu
• College: University of Connecticut
• Position: Safety
• Height: 6'4"
• Weight: 224 lbs

Physical Attributes:

• Speed: Exceptional speed for a safety, with a reported 40-yard dash time of 4.40 seconds.
• Length: Impressive wingspan and height, which allow him to cover a lot of ground.
• Athleticism: High level of athleticism, showcased in his vertical leap (44 inches) and broad jump (141 inches).

Strengths:

• Excellent range and ability to cover large areas of the field.
• Good ball skills with the ability to create turnovers.
• Strong tackler who can bring down ball carriers with force.
• Versatile player who can line up in multiple positions in the secondary.

Areas for Improvement:

• Needs to improve his recognition and reaction times in coverage.
• Can struggle with consistency in tackling form, occasionally leading to missed tackles.
• Experience in a limited college offense; may need to adapt to NFL schemes.

Overall Assessment:

Obi Melifonwu was one of the most intriguing safety prospects in the 2017 NFL Draft due to his unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism. His performance at the NFL Combine raised his stock significantly, showcasing his physical gifts and potential as a game-changing player in the secondary. Teams looking for a safety with the ability to impact both in coverage and run support would find Melifonwu an appealing option. However, his development in reading offenses and refining his technique will be crucial for success at the professional level.