Instincts Guide Sydney Brown Into The Second Round

First Round Mock’s Thomas Morris unpacks his evaluation of Illinois safety Sydney Brown and says this ballhawk has what it takes to make a difference.

What does Sydney Brown bring to a team?

Safety #30

5-foot-9 211 pounds

Devon Witherspoon isn’t the only Illinois defensive back that can be a great NFL player, add Brown to that list as well.

It is a crime that Brown isn’t as highly touted as his Illinois teammate but don’t let this fool you. Brown is an excellent player that will make a team better day one.

Big plays often had Brown’s handprints all over them.

With this safety class having no clear number one option, an argument could be made that Brown stands atop the rest. His showing at the NFL Scouting Combine will only improve his stock, and get more eyes on him as a prospect. Brown’s performance at that event showcased many of the strengths you can see on his game tape – – his speed, power and vertical which helped him make big plays routinely.

What does he look like in games?

Brown may not be the tallest, but he makes up for it in speed and strength, and his impact on the game is undeniable. His instincts for the game are unteachable, giving him an edge over the competition. He has a nose for the ball, seemingly knowing where it was going and setting himself up to make a plays in his area. His six interceptions this year showcased his great ability to track the ball, whether he’s in man or zone coverage. He does a great job reading the quarterback’s body language, and getting in position to make a play.

During situations where the rest of the team gave up on the play, Brown often made touchdown saving tackles as the last line of defense.

What else does he show on game film?

-Despite his size, he has no trouble covering tight ends.

-Uses his speed to his advantage during blitzing scenarios

-Uses his vertical to disrupt plays when he isn’t in position for the ball

-Always seems to be in or around the play

-Not the most sure tackler but he will hit hard and often

-Reads the quarterback like a book

-Has the ability to cover running backs

Brown definitely has some improvements to make when it comes to his inconsistent tackling. He can additionally take better angles on the ball carriers. Additionally, he can improve reacting to and reading run plays. He struggled with speedy receivers.

Where Does He Fit In?

With Brown’s overall skill set he will make an instant impact on special teams. He will also make a difference on defense for whatever team that selects him. The athleticism combined with his unteachable instincts translate any situation. This Illinois defender is a ballhawk by trade. He will strike fear into offenses with his hard hits and seemingly omnipresent sense for the ball. In the end, his tackling and size concerns will keep him out of the first round. However, after that, he will be a draft steal.

Send the card in based on this game film study

Draft Grade: Late Second to Early Third-Round

Games Evaluated: (click to view games used to form this evaluation)

Minnesota ’22

Wyoming ’22

Chattanooga ’22

Michigan ’22

Thomas Morris is a lifelong football fan that has an immense passion for the game and prides himself on having an eye for talent throughout all 7 rounds of the draft. He’s a dedicated Seahawks and South Carolina Gamecocks’ fan that has an instinct for discovering gems in the later rounds.  He writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering the NFL draft and can be found on Twitter @tjm2332.