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Photo of Troy Nolan
Grade
?
  • 4.65 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 12 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 31.5 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 117.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.07 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.30 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 6'1" Height
  • 207LBS. Weight

Overview

Nolan was forced to redshirt in 2006 after suffering a knee injury in only his third practice with the Sun Devils. Returned to the field in 2007, when he left little doubt about his athleticism, starting all 13 games and leading the team with six interceptions -- two of which he returned for a touchdown. Nolan's propensity for making the big play showed up again in 2008, as he picked off another four passes and returned two of them (along with a fumble) to give him five defensive touchdowns in only two seasons of Pac-10 play. If he can improve on his marginal 40 time, Nolan could emerge as one of the hotter safety prospects in this draft.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Good size. ... Standout player both years of Pac-10 competition. ... Ball hawk at free safety. ... Willing to bait quarterbacks and can make the big play. ... Reads the quarterback's eyes and gets a good break on the ball. ... Better field speed than timed speed in coverage. ... Can time his leaps. ... Good hands for the interception. ... Good agility to avoid blocks and come up to support the run. ... Heavy hitter willing to throw his body into the pile. Negatives: Has to prove the straight-line speed to be effective as a free safety in the NFL. ... Despite size, ducks his head too often when taking on blocks and can lose track of the ball. ... Overaggressive. ... Can put his defense in a tough position by overrunning the action. ... Takes questionable angles to the ball. ... Medical check on 2006 knee injury.
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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.
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