• NFL Network
  • En Español
  • Mobile
Photo of Brannan Southerland
Grade
?
  • 4.69 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 28 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 38.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 120.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.40 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.40 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 6'0" Height
  • 242LBS. Weight

Overview

Entering the 2008 season, Southerland was considered by some to be the year's best traditional fullback prospect. After missing half of the season due to a fractured left foot, however, scouts are understandably more skeptical about where Southerland fits into the draft. He missed the first seven games of the 2008 season after surgery to fix the fracture, but struggled to regain the momentum he enjoyed earlier in his career. If he can prove his health, Southerland has the size, athleticism and history to warrant late-round consideration. Had an arm span of 32 3/4 inches and a hand span of 9 1/4 inches at the combine.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Solid build for the position. Experienced fullback with the athleticism to contribute as a blocker, runner and receiver. At his best blocking on the move. Locates his target and can break down in space to hit him squarely. Keeps his legs churning and maintains good contact with his target. Hits the hole quickly as a runner and has flashed the leg drive for short-yardage success. Earned the Leon Farmer Award for his dedication to the UGA strength and conditioning program and was named a team captain in 2008 despite only appearing in eight games. Negatives: Flashed impressive leg drive and toughness as a runner early in his career, but has become less of a factor in the running game each of the past three seasons - dropping in touchdowns from eight (2006) to five (2007) to one (on only two total rushing attempts) in 2008. Only marginal hands out of the backfield. Not a natural receiver. Marginal initial pop as a lead blocker. Relies on agility and technique to clear lanes, rather than pure power or aggression. Didn't appear to be the same player this season after missing the first half of the year with a fractured foot. Surgically repaired navicular bone in his left foot requires a Combine check.
×
Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.

© 2013 NFL Enterprises LLC. NFL and the NFL shield design are registered trademarks of the National Football League.The team names, logos and uniform designs are registered trademarks of the teams indicated. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. NFL footage © NFL Productions LLC. PRIVACY POLICY | Terms & Conditions

NFL News
CONTENT
15