Michael Huff (03/2006)

Position:

S

School:

Univ. of Texas

Height:

6' 1"

Weight:

200 lbs.

General Variables:

34 out of 40

Size:

8

Strength:

8

Speed:

9

Athleticism:

9

Position Variables:

35 out of 40

Run stopping:

9

Pass rushing:

9

Technique:

8

Attitude:

9

Positives:

Michael Huff is an interesting case.  He's got great size – long arms, small waist, and rock solid.  He plays safety, and he prefers strong safety, but like a lockdown cover corner, who happens to also hit like a hammer.  Huff is an incredibly versatile player, who's capable of playing at an elite level anywhere in the secondary.  He’s very smooth, possessing great technique and turn, an absurd vertical leap, and great hands.  There really isn't anything that Huff doesn't do well, but one thing that's fun to watch is what he does once he gets the football in his hands.  His speed is among the fastest in the draft, and although his size isn't comparable to a guy like Sean Taylor, you'd never know it when you watch him hit.

Negatives:

Huff's versatility is a negative to some.  He's been moved from corner to safety, and back and forth, throughout his career.  Some say it means he's not developed at either.  So now, he's a “tweener”…big deal.

Overall:

Ever watch a kid play, and just know he's got it?  Well, Huff is that guy for me.  Some are bigger, some are faster, but I don't know if there's anyone in this draft that does everything at defensive back better than Huff.  He reminds me a lot of the versatility of Ed Reed, but with the speed of a Troy Polamalu.  He's my top rated DB, regardless whether he's a safety or cornerback at the next level.  I suspect he'll play both in the NFL, and play both at an elite level.

Final Word:

PRIORITIES ― It seems that safety has become a far more important position in recent years, and the line between FS and SS have blurred. You are often better off to have a player who is more well rounded, than a traditional coverage FS, or an "in the box" SS.  Huff fits this new ideal safety model to a tee.  Huff, Mario Williams and AJ Hawk are the Big 3 defensive guys in this draft.  I can see all 3 having rookie years where they make the defenses they play for much better, just because they are on the field.

Curtis Popejoy

Scouting Director