2019 Raiders Draft Prospect Profile
Name: Ugo Amadi
Position: S/CB
School: Oregon
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 203 pounds
Draft Projection: Day 3
Stats
Speed
If you view Amadi through the lens of a safety/slot corner, he possesses outstanding speed. His explosion from the snap opens eyes. When Amadi gives chase across the field, he quickly gets to the action. Meanwhile, he also blitzes fairly well with the same burst. Usually, he can stay stride for stride on vertical routes. In addition, breaking back on the ball does not appear to be an issue.
Coverage
As a safety, Amadi operated in various spots. While he should operate as a centerfielder, Amadi can operate the slot. In passing situations, he can slide down to cover the slot receivers, usually primed to break off option routes. Versatile and athletic enough, Amadi could also effectively shadow an outside receiver.
Agility
Blessed with a low, smooth backpedal, Amadi, while hold his gait on longer routes, then flip the hips and run. Moreover, when funneling through a screen, Amadi gets skinny to avoid blockers and makes the play.
Ball Skills
While the term “ballhawk” feels cliché, Amadi does exhibit traits. With the ball aloft, Amadi will track the flight with his eyes. If the ball is targeted at his receiver, look for either inside position or the savvy arm around technique. Despite standing only 5’10”, Amadi can leap fairly well versus larger receivers.
Tackling
As mentioned, Amadi’s size will scare some off. Yet, he attacks downhill like a bigger DB. When tackling, Amadi needs to rely more on his explosion and less on gravity. That is to say, if he drives through the target, his tackling becomes more effective.
Intangibles
Like most defensive backs, Amadi believes the ball belongs to him. As a result, he will make a play on everything thrown his way. Without fail, arrogance, in this occasion works. With 24 deflected passes, nine interceptions and two pick-sixes, Amadi will ensure that he affects the game.
Raiders Fit
Granted, when some see Amadi, they will compare him to Karl Joseph. Due to their respective sizes, many will draw that comparison. Yet, you could not find two more polar opposites. While Joseph lives to inflict pain, Amadi wants to make a play on the ball. With the ball, he remains a threat to take it the distance every time. Amadi, projects as a versatile defensive back that could benefit the Raiders. Oakland needs to bring playmaking safeties into the fold. Reggie Nelson and Marcus Gilchrist struggle. In addition, Erik Harris seems a better fit for reserve duty.
