NFL Draft Profile: Jordan Battle
Taking a look at one of the three Alabama safeties, Senior Jordan Battle
When you see multiple players from one school playing the same position, you just have to see who the better of the listed. In 2021, Ohio State had four linebackers in the draft: Pete Werner, Baron Browning, Justin Hilliard and Tuf Borland were all in the same draft. And so far, it looks like Pete has been the best out of the four listed. But now it is Alabama’s turn as they have three safeties declare for the 2023 Draft. And to start is Jordan Battle.
Jordan Battle is a four-year starting safety for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Throughout that time, he recorded nine pass break-ups and 6 interceptions, with his best year coming in 2021, where he had 4 pass breakups and 3 interceptions and a QBR of 57.6. He was accomplished as a safety in his last two years, earning many all-American accolades and safety award watch list nominations.
Strengths:
Very versatile safety. Played both the deep and box safety at Bama.
Has good size, speed and fluidity.
Perhaps has the best closing speed. Able to quickly close gap of receivers to either intercept, knock away the ball or lay down the hammer on receivers.
Shown good IQ and awareness. Always seems to be where the ball is.
Very physical tackler. You feel his power when you get hit by hum.
Can hold his own in man coverage if asked.
Has good potential to being a top tier run defender.
At his best when he plays the robber role in a defense.
Shown to have good athleticism and range to play deep if asked.
Weaknesses:
Needs to improve pursuit angles on his tackles. Can over pursue, under pursue and it all leading to missed tackles.
Is satisfactory in man coverage but needs to play with better leverage.
More explosive athletes can abuse him in one-on-one open field tackling situations.
Shedding blocks can be improved.
Pro Comparison:
Malcolm Jenkins
Draft Projection:
Late First/Early Second Round
Overall:
Jordan Battle might not be the best safety to come from Alabama this draft, but he can be the most impactful. Battle already has a clear role as a robber, strong safety that plays 10-12 yards away from the LOS, looking at the run and playing against receiving tight ends. Battle has the frame, athleticism, and skills needed into being a consistent pro-bowl level player. His biggest swing factor for him will be those pursuit angles when going for the tackle. His athleticism can only do so much. He really is close to being Philadelphia Eagles/2nd Stint New Orleans Saints safety Malcolm Jenkins with his role and responsibilities. He will be a great safety for teams.