Makari Vickers

A bigger defensive back with legit top-end speed that has found ways to make an impact in all three phases of the game on Friday nights. Size hasn’t been verified in a year, but looks to be at least 6-foot-1 and pushing close to 190 pounds as he’s thick throughout the torso. Hasn’t tested in a while either, but track and field profile is in the upper percentile as he owns multiple sub-11 times in the 100-meter dash and has cleared 21 feet in the long jump. A natural playmaker on the backend with ball skills that is quick to read and diagnose. Impressive open-field tackler for someone his age that will strike ball carriers and wrap up. Looser hips allow him to get east-west better than most his size. Understands how to fight through blocks out on the perimeter or in the ally and make a stop. Spent much of junior season working over the top as a safety, but was also utilized here and there as an outside cornerback. Found success in both roles registering 68 tackles, eight pass break ups and two interceptions. Might be able to get the job done at one of the corner sports in a defense that favors bump-and-run coverage, but ceiling seems to be highest as a box safety given how he can come downhill and get physical while also sticking with all the new-age, athletic tight ends that patrol the slot these days. Should be viewed as a potential multi-year starter for a Power Five program. Someone that will also likely add some special teams value right away given build and tackling prowess.