Elijah Molden (Washington) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #100 by TEN
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Elijah Molden - 2021 NFL Draft
Player Overview:
Elijah Molden is a versatile defensive back who played college football at the University of Washington. Known for his high football IQ and exceptional instincts, Molden was a standout player in the Pac-12, showcasing the ability to play both cornerback and safety positions.
Strengths:
- Versatility: Molden has experience playing in various positions in the secondary, making him a valuable asset for defensive schemes that require flexibility.
- Football IQ: He demonstrates a deep understanding of offensive schemes, allowing him to anticipate plays and react quickly.
- Ball Skills: Molden has shown the ability to make plays on the ball, with a knack for interceptions and pass breakups.
- Tackling: He is an aggressive tackler who isn't afraid to come up in run support, demonstrating solid technique and physicality.
- Work Ethic: Molden is regarded as a hard worker who is constantly looking to improve his game and refine his skills.
Weaknesses:
- Size: At around 5'10" and 190 pounds, Molden may be considered undersized for a traditional NFL cornerback, which could limit his matchups against taller receivers.
- Speed: While he possesses good speed, he may not have elite straight-line speed, which could affect his ability to keep up with faster wide receivers in the NFL.
- Consistency: At times, his technique can be inconsistent, particularly in press coverage, which may require further refinement at the professional level.
Overall Assessment:
Elijah Molden is a talented defensive back who projects as a solid contributor in the NFL, particularly as a nickel corner or safety. His ability to read plays and make quick decisions, combined with his tackling skills, makes him an appealing prospect. While there are concerns regarding his size and speed, his football intelligence and work ethic should allow him to adapt and thrive at the next level.
Projected Draft Round:
Molden was projected to be selected in the
3rd to 4th round of the 2021 NFL Draft, with potential to rise based on team needs and his performance in pre-draft evaluations.