Jaylin Simpson, SAF, Auburn
Size:
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 179 pounds
Arm Length: 32 3/8"
Hand Size: 9 7/8"
Accomplishments:
Second Team All-SEC (2023) • Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist (2023)
“Jaylin Simpson is a versatile defensive back who has cornerback athleticism and burst paired with the safety vision and instincts to be an impact player in the secondary.”
Strengths:
Coverage instincts
Strong ball skills
SAF/CB versatility
Deep range
Concerns:
Thin, wiry frame
Run support
Handling physicality
Film Analysis:
Jaylin Simpson has legitimate free safety range to cover sideline to sideline. As a cornerback converted to safety, the athleticism from Simpson shows with his range in coverage. He has a good burst and acceleration to drive downhill on underneath/shallow routes.
He has good safety instincts with field vision to read and react to plays quickly. He has a good feel for what’s happening around him with the route concepts and spacing. Simpson baits quarterbacks into throwing turnover-worthy passes. His ball production is a plus.
Simpson has smooth hips and can make fluid transitions to stay with his coverage responsibility. He changes directions well and moves with ease. Simpson has the skill set and athletic combination to cover wide receivers in the slot and tight ends in man. Defenses that use cover zero should take interest in Simpson’s abilities.
Simpson has a smaller, slimmer build/frame, creating issues with more physical receiving threats. He can be outmuscled out of position. Simpson has the range as a run defender but lacks the physicality as a tackler. It may be helpful to bulk up a bit to improve his effectiveness versus running backs working downhill.
Simpson is a solid starting hybrid defensive back. His instincts, athleticism, and positional flexibility make him a fit for creative defensive coaches. He is best utilized as a free safety in the high post to combat explosive passing plays.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Developmental Traits
Written By: Damian Parson
Exposures: Alabama (2023), Georgia (2023), LSU (2023), Ole Miss (2023)
