2016 NFL Draft: Ohio State’s Vonn Bell Scouting Report

Ohio State’s Vonn Bell Scouting Report

Vonn Bell is flying under the radar a bit and should probably be getting more attention as a top-end prospect. He stands out because of his coverage ability from the safety position. A large majority of the safeties entering the league the past few years have been more in-the-box type.

Bell’s ability to excel as both a centerfielder and in man coverage make him a very versatile defender. He’s a fluid enough athlete that he could play some cornerback if needed. Ohio State asked him to spend a lot of time working out of the slot which is where he gained his experience in man coverage.

He also features the ball skills needed to pull down interceptions. Bell does a good job reading the quarterback and jumping routes. He plays bigger than his size thanks to his timing and leaping ability. Bell is more than capable of handling tight ends or bigger targets in one on one situations.

The biggest knock on Bell is that he’s not a physical run defender. He doesn’t routinely attack the line of scrimmage and will allow himself to be blocked. There are also occasions where he’ll miss an open-field tackle which is a major issue at the safety position.

Bell needs to show more tenacity and a willingness to support the run. However, it’s a little easier to overlook this issue if you pair him with another safety who is a big hitter. There’s just so much value in a safety who provides above-average coverage skills.

Draft Range- 1^st Round