Justin Reid NFL Draft 2018: Scouting Report for Houston Texans' Pick

POSITIVES

—Reid is a fast, fluid, versatile safety prospect with the body and tools to line up all over the field.

—Lateral quickness as slot defender makes him a valuable defensive matchup player.

—Mental processing is evident on film as Reid shows ability to identify route concepts and close windows.

—Five interceptions in 2017 highlight ball skills, which include the ability to play through receivers' hands and make plays at the catch point.

—Man-coverage eraser in short-to-intermediate range that can handle most tight ends and speedy backs. Can carry drags across the field.

NEGATIVES

—Backpedal looks rigid. I wonder if that’s coaching point or a technical/functional issue.

—Lunging tackler that looks to make devastating hit and tends to dip head when he sees an opportunity to strike. Better athletes will exploit that style of hitting.

—Reid has a tendency to peek into the backfield at the top of routes, wanting to jump routes, and can lose a step on option routes. Quick NFL receivers will exacerbate the problem. 

Justin Reid S NFL Draft

OVERALL

The brother of NFL safety Eric Reid, Justin Reid is a legit player in his own right. He's more fluid and agile than his big bro and might be a better fit in the modern game. Reid can run with receivers or tight ends and has exceptional football IQ coming out of Stanford's defense. He should make an impact as a rookie.

GRADE: 6.90 (Early Round 2)

PRO COMPARISON: Marcus Williams, New Orleans Saints