2015 NFL Draft Profile: FS Jalen Mills, LSU
Jalen Mills is another defensive back coming from the LSU pipeline that has been pumping out talented and versatile defensive backs for the last few years. Mills is indeed very talented and versatile, but comes with character concerns that may affect his draft stock as well.
Mills was arrested in June of last year on charges of second degree battery for allegedly punching a woman in the mouth in front of his apartment. Mills was suspended indefinitely by LSU but was allowed back on the team by head coach Les Miles two months later when Mills had his charges reduced to a misdemeanor simple battery charge.
This past season, Mills totaled 54 tackles with 1 interception as well as having 8 tackles in the Music City Bowl. Mills has adjusted well to playing free safety from his old posiiton at cornerback and is one of the top safety prospects in this year’s draft.
Strengths:
- Great speed and agility
- Able to get around blocks
- Good fundamental tackling ability
- Great versatility, can play any anywhere in the secondary
- Great field vision
- Good height (6-2)
Weaknesses:
- Not an explosive tackler
- Lanky frame, only 198 lbs
- Character concerns
Overall, Mills is much like fellow LSU defensive back Tyrann Mathieu in terms of his talent and athletic ability but light frame. Mills has a ton of upside which makes him a top safety prospect, but his off-field issues could cause teams to pass on him early.
Mills would make a great free safety or cornerback and his draft stock would be benefited even more if he packed on a little more muscle. Look for him to be taken in one of the middle rounds. He will be a solid NFL player as long as he can keep his attitude in check.