Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
T.J. Tampa
- Iowa State
- Height-6010
- Weight-189 lbs
- Fourth-year Senior
- 3-Star recruit at wide receiver per 247 Sports
- Stats: 107 tackles, 83 solo, 9.5 tackles for loss, 19 passes defended, 3 interceptions, 1 forced fumble
- Games watched: Iowa 2023, Texas 2023, Cincinnati 2023, Northern Iowa 2023
Strengths
Tampa has the prototypical size and length for a cornerback who has no problem using it.
Really good recognition in zone coverage. Has enough speed and quickness to attack the football and make plays.
Likes to get physical at the line of scrimmage and has no issue doing so throughout the route. Does a good job of forcing receivers off-axis.
Weaknesses
Allows his blind spot to get attacked when playing bail technique. He will fly upfield multiple steps after the receiver has already made his break outside.
Stiff transitions are apparent when in man coverage. Doesn’t break smoothly when receivers commit at the stem and looks jerky in his movements.
Doesn’t seem to have that next gear when handling speed. Receivers with speed can take him downfield vertically.
Overview
| Man | 7.3/10 |
| Zone | 7.9/10 |
| Hips/Fluidity | 7.0/10 |
| Recognition | 11.2/15 |
| Quickness | 7.7/10 |
| Run Support | 8.1/10 |
| Speed | 7.6/10 |
| Recovery | 7.5/10 |
| Tackling | 4.0/5 |
| Ball Skills | 7.9/10 |
| Grade | 76.2/100 Third Round |
Tampa offers some intrigue for a team that runs exclusively zone coverage but there isn’t a lot of upside in man coverage. If he ends up on the right team, he could be a starter in 1-2 years.
