2020 NFL Draft scouting report: Kyle Dugger

There are many positions the Falcons are taking a look at when it comes to prospects in this coming draft. An underrated position to watch for happens to be the safety group.

This group is a bit in flux because of the injury history of Keanu Neal, which makes his future with the Falcons uncertain. Ricardo Allen and Damontae Kazee are also currently scheduled to be free agents in 2021, leaving a potential gaping hole at the position. In light of that, one of the prospects the Falcons have reportedly shown interest in is Kyle Dugger.

Dugger was a starting safety for Lenoir-Rhyne University. A former pick from Fayetteville, GA, Dugger was a very productive player in his collegiate career. He received first team All-South Athletic honors as a defensive back, but that wasn’t the only position where he was effective. Dugger was also a punt return specialist, where he also received first team honors during his college career, making him a potential options on returns for Atlanta right away.

Strengths

• A unique blend of speed, size and athleticism
• Extremely explosive for the position.
• Really stood out against competition in the division.
• Highly productive.
• Gets downhill in a hurry and hunts with blood in his eyes when given the opportunity
• Has exceptional body control and able to wrap up to tackle when he needs to.
• Can be a box safety, but has the speed and the athleticism to play single high
• Always seems to be around the football and has great range due to his athleticism and speed.
• As tough as they come and has great character and work ethic.

Weaknesses

• Level of competition will have to be a consideration when it comes to his man coverage skills. Will take some development.
• Looks a little tight in the hips.
• Will have to learn how to get his eyes on the QB to anticipate throws.
• Elite athlete, but will need to learn to work on his footwork (especially his back pedal) and overall technique at the next level.
• Needs refinement when it comes to playing zone and processing routes in front of him.

Dugger is easily one of the best athletes of this draft class, regardless of position. This type of athleticism, along with his great character and work ethic would make him a great fit for the Falcons. Dugger is also very versatile and would definitely get playing time early on special teams and even on defense in base or big nickel situations. He has some technique issues to iron out, but Dugger is very likely a day 2 pick in the NFL Draft, and should not be ignored as a potential Atlanta target.