Brandon Hardin Scouting Report
Position: | FS |
Conference: | Pac12 |
School: | Oregon State Beavers |
Year/Status: | Drafted |
Jersey Number: | #17 |
Height & Weight: | 6'3 - 216 lbs. |
Draft Prediction: | Fourth Round |
2012 NFL Draft Prospect Scouting Report:
Brandon Hardin, FS, Oregon State
Hardin broke his shoulder during fall camp and was unable to return for his senior season. He did participate in the East-West Shrine Game, which is where he must have caught the attention of the Bears.
Hardin was supposed to play cornerback for the Beavers in 2011, but he has the size and strength to potentially play safety in the NFL. Chicago really struggled to find a pair of safeties to stick with in 2011 and given Hardin's coverage skills, he'll have a real shot to stick with Chicago.
Hardin excels with press coverage. He may lack playing experience, but in today's NFL he'll need to cover big, speedy receivers like Calvin Johnson and Greg Jennings over the top. Since he'll likely transition to safety, he can also cover the middle. He recently ran a sub 4.5 40-yard dash, which is very rare for a DB with his size. Could have excellent range for safety.