Joe Lefeged Scouting Report

Whether on defense or special teams, if Rutgers made a big play it is likely Joe Lefeged who did it. As a freshman in 2007, Lefeged started showing off his knack for making big plays. He only started one game, but recorded 38 tackles and was named to a variety of freshmen all-conference and all-American teams. He stepped into the starting strong safety role in 2008 on a part-time basis and saw his tackle total increase drastically and continued to make big plays. On top of forcing a fumble, he recovered a couple as well and returned one for a 58 yard touchdown. In 2009, Lefeged returned a kickoff for a touchdown and continued to be a solid, big hitting safety.

The 2010 season continued where 2009 left off. Through seven games Lefeged is second on the Scarlet Knights with 51 tackles. However, it is on special teams where Lefeged really shines. He has been a consistent kick and punt returner and would have a touchdown if it was not for a holding penalty on a 95 yard kick-off return. The second game of the year Rutgers was struggling and Lefeged basically won the game on his own against Florida International. He blocked two punts and forced three turnovers in one contest. Rutgers went on to win the game 19-14 and that would not have happened if it was not for Lefeged.

Lefeged is a little undersized for a traditional safety in the NFL. He is not the fastest guy around either, but he simply gets the job done in every possible way. At best Lefeged is a mid-round draft pick, but some team will get a great special teams player and a versatile safety who could work his way into a starting role with a little experience.

12/20 Update: Lefeged wrapped up his collegiate career by ranking second on the Scarlet Knights with 84 tackles. He added 3.5 tackles-for-loss, 1.5 sacks, six pass break-ups and one interception. As a result Lefeged was named to the All-Big East Second-Team. He even broke a school record by tallying 948 yards on 38 kickoff returns and is fifth on the Scarlet Knights all-time kickoff return yardage list. Rutgers had a disappointing season, but Lefeged was one of the few bright spots. Without a bowl game to showcase his skills, Lefeged will need to have some solid workouts to move into the first three rounds of the NFL Draft.