2018 Raiders Draft Prospect Profile
Name: Damon Webb
Position: Safety
School: Ohio State
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 209
Projected: 5-7
For Webb, college playing time was rare. During his stay in Columbe, he wass tuck within the glut of talented cornerbacks. Eventually, Webb moved to safety and found a home. As a result, he found success. In 2017, the intelligent and opportunistic safety snagged five interceptions to go with 61 tackles and three pass breakups.
The senior was a steadying presence on the back end starting 27 games during his two-year run as a safety.
Raiders Fit
Oakland Raiders defensive coordinator Paul Guenther loves players with sound instincts. Ona positive note, Webb has that and then some. Webb won’t be relied upon as a starter and his best fit in years 1 and 2 are as a reserve safety. The Buckeye can come in and take the role of 2017 seventh-rounder Shalom Luani as a special teamer and reserve backend ballhawk. With a strong camp, Webb could unseat Keith McGill as well.
Strengths
A book-smart defensive back who has a good football IQ. Knows what angles to take to cutoff lanes in run support. Give him an opportunity and Webb will capitalize. His five interceptions this past season and two career pick-sixes are a testament to that. In addition, Webb’s reaction time improved each week. Plus, he is a yard-limiting tackler. Not to mention, Webb displays leadership.
Weaknesses
Physically has the makeup of a cornerback. Will need to put on weight and get stronger to hold up against the NFL run game and big-bodied tight ends. However, pure speed can leave Webb lost in the shuffle. Burners can negate the smart angles he takes as he doesn’t have the same jets to keep up. His lack of speed and size don’t give him a true deep or in-the-box designation. Lauded for straight-line speed, came into combine at 209 (listed at 195 at Ohio State) and added weight likely hurt him (4.62 40 time).
In the long run, Webb could provide much needed dept to the Raiders. With the league leaning pass heavy, quality defensive backs are in demand. Regardless of secondary spot, Webb gives Oakland talent. In reality, the secondary is a weak spot.
