Travis Feeney NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Steelers Rookie

POSITIVES

A former safety prospect, Travis Feeney has converted himself to the size of a linebacker but maintained his athleticism at 6’4” and 230 pounds. Feeney wowed scouts in his senior season and at the East-West Shrine Game.

Playing as a pass-rusher, Feeney uses active, fast hands to disengage from blockers and will slip by offensive tackles on the edge. An experienced rusher, Feeney uses a slip-and-dip move to get free. He’s as capable when setting the edge against the run, showing solid seal and contain ability with his length.

When he's asked to drop into coverage, Feeney's background as a safety shines. He has a smooth, controlled backpedal and flips his hips with a loose, free movement. His length is a big help in coverage too.

Feeney is an unfinished project—like a house that needs repainting and the floors stained but has good bones. The right organization will see his athletic potential and be willing to overlook other areas of his game. Where Feeney does impress is in how he attacks the field.

NEGATIVES

Feeney has battled shoulder injuries (labrum), which teams will question given the pounding his position takes on the pads. A fast tester at the combine, Feeney flashed as more quick than fast on film with a long stride.

Feeney’s instincts at linebacker are still in development. He often gets distracted by blockers and doesn’t have the strength to recover. His long legs make his change of direction labored and slow when he’s asked to adjust from straight-line to lateral speed.

An undisciplined player on the field, Washington allowed Feeney to freelance. He takes some awkward angles to the ball and can play out of position more than you’d like, but he was able to recover in college thanks to his athleticism.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'4"

Weight: 230 lbs.

40 Time: 4.50s

3-Cone: 7.20s

Short Shuttle: 4.42s

PRO COMPARISON: Kiko Alonso, Miami Dolphins
FINAL GRADE: 5.60/9.00 (Round 5—Backup Caliber)