Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Talanoa Hufanga (USC) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #180 by SF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Talanoa Hufanga (USC)

Position: Safety
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 215 lbs
College: University of Southern California (USC)

Overview

Talanoa Hufanga was regarded as one of the top safety prospects in the 2021 NFL Draft. Known for his physical play style and ability to impact the game both in coverage and against the run, Hufanga showcased his skills during his college career at USC.

Strengths

• Versatile Playmaker: Hufanga demonstrated the ability to play both strong and free safety positions, making him a valuable asset for defensive coordinators.
• Strong Tackler: He is known for his physical tackling ability, often stepping up to make plays in the box and against the run.
• Instincts and Awareness: Hufanga possesses excellent football IQ, allowing him to read plays effectively and react quickly, which is crucial for a safety.
• Ball Skills: He has shown the ability to make interceptions and break up passes, demonstrating his coverage skills.
• Leadership: As a captain at USC, Hufanga displayed strong leadership qualities and was respected by teammates and coaches alike.

Weaknesses

• Injury Concerns: Hufanga faced injuries during his college career, which raised concerns about his durability at the next level.
• Coverage Skills: Although he has good instincts, he can be inconsistent in deep coverage, especially against faster receivers.
• Speed: While he is athletic, there are questions about his straight-line speed, particularly in matchups against elite speedsters in the NFL.

Overall Projection

Talanoa Hufanga was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2021 NFL Draft. His combination of physicality, versatility, and leadership made him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary. Depending on the team's defensive scheme, he could provide immediate depth and become a potential starter in the future.

Conclusion

With his skill set and work ethic, Talanoa Hufanga had the potential to make an impact in the NFL, particularly in a system that values strong safety play and run support. His development in coverage would be key to his success at the professional level.