Gerod Holliman NFL Draft 2015: Scouting Report, Grade for Steelers' Round 7 Pick

STRENGTHS

The 2014 Thorpe Award winner, Gerod Holliman grabbed 14 interceptions, tying a single-season FBS record. He is patient and fluid when tracking the ball from his position in the middle of the field. He's a classic single-high safety who reads the quarterback's eyes and makes a play on the ball. He has obvious ball-hawking skills and the jumping ability to go get the ball in the air. Holliman is a gamer who put on his best performance against Florida State. He's smooth in his backpedal and hip turn, and you can see the movement styles of a cornerback in his lower body. Holliman's feet are as impressive as his hands, and he's able to move and change direction with no wasted movement or steps. Holliman can play in man coverage and will lock up tight ends or slot receivers with good shadow skills. He has long arms and uses them well to attack the ball or put pressure on receivers leaving the line of scrimmage. Holliman left school as a redshirt sophomore to provide for his family.

WEAKNESSES

Holliman did not test well, especially in terms of pure speed, and he will be questioned for his ability to run with NFL range. He's not a hitter and comes up timid when attacking the ball too often. He's been caught playing undisciplined in coverage and likes to roam and look for the ball. Holliman has a tendency to idle instead of sprint, and that won't fly in the NFL. He needs a good coach to light a fire under him.

2014 STATISTICS

Tackles: 44
Passes Defended: 3
Interceptions: 14 

COMBINE RESULTS

40: 4.65 seconds
Bench Press: 17 reps
Vertical: 27.0"
Broad: 109.0"
Three-Cone Drill: 7.08 seconds

PRO COMPARISON: Devin McCourty, New England Patriots

Holliman isn't as explosive athletically as McCourty, but they're similar in size, ball-hawking ability and the center fielder position they both excel at.

FINAL GRADE: 6.30/9.00 (Rookie Starter)