Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Montae Nicholson (Michigan St.) - 2017 NFL Draft Pick #123 by WAS

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Montae Nicholson (2017 NFL Draft)

College: Michigan State University
Position: Safety

Overview

Montae Nicholson was a standout safety at Michigan State, known for his impressive athleticism and physical playing style. He entered the 2017 NFL Draft as one of the more intriguing defensive backs, with the potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level.

Strengths

• Athleticism: Nicholson possesses excellent speed and quickness, which allows him to cover ground effectively and close in on receivers.
• Size: Standing at 6'2" and weighing around 210 pounds, he offers a desirable blend of size and agility for a safety.
• Physicality: He is known for his hard-hitting style, displaying the ability to deliver impactful tackles.
• Versatility: Nicholson can play both free safety and strong safety positions, giving teams flexibility in their defensive schemes.
• Ball Skills: He demonstrated good hands and awareness, making him a threat for interceptions and pass breakups.

Weaknesses

• Consistency: At times, Nicholson struggled with his decision-making and could be prone to mental lapses in coverage.
• Technique: His tackling technique needed refinement; he occasionally relied too much on his physicality instead of proper form.
• Experience: Having played only a few seasons at the collegiate level, he may require some time to adjust to the speed of the NFL.

Projected Role

Montae Nicholson was projected to be a mid-round draft pick, with the potential to develop into a starting safety. His physical traits and athletic ability made him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their secondary.

Conclusion

Montae Nicholson entered the 2017 NFL Draft with a solid skill set and the potential for growth. Teams were intrigued by his combination of size, speed, and hitting ability, making him a player to watch as he transitioned to the professional level.