John West - Scouting Report

The film continues to roll in and we're getting to as much of it as possible on a daily basis. Here's a scouting report on Oak Creek, Wisconsin's John West.

Safeties have to have the same qualities as a linebacker but they need to run like a running back or wide receiver. Safeties need to be physical at the point of attack and need to have good coverage skills. Oak Creek, Wisconsin’s John West has all the tools be a solid safety at the next level. On film, West shows he’s aggressive, has a nose for the ball and he knows how to tackle. “You can tell whether or not a prospect is going to be a good college safety by his aggressiveness on film,” said one Big Ten recruiter. “When a receiver or running back comes at him with the ball, does he square up and attack his numbers or does he wait and try to make the tackle from the side? Generally speaking, most defensive backs don’t like contact, if you can find a safety that’s aggressive and mentally tough, we offer a scholarship.” West has all the qualities that this Big Ten coach was talking about. His run support is exceptional, his coverage skills are good and he attacks the person that has the ball. Physically, West looks like he hasn’t missed a day in the weight room. The 6-foot-1, 175-pounder, has 4.5 speed and will only get bigger and stronger at the next level. West will be a “Midwest Hot 100” selection in 2003.