2017 Raiders Draft Profile: S Xavier Woods
2017 Raiders Draft Profile
Name: Xavier Woods
School/Position: Louisiana Tech, Safety
Height: 5’11
Weight: 220lbs
Ball Skills: There is a sense of focus with Woods. Similarly, when the ball is thrown, depending on his location is how he’ll play it. At distance, Woods attempts to dislodge the ball from the receiver. Closer, he breaks on the pass. He single-catches the ball in flight. On the other hand, some defensive backs juggle and use superior coordination to corral the football. This often negates any chance for a return. Woods secures the pass and runs upfield. As a result, his 14 interceptions rank eighth in Conference USA history. Room for Improvement: Woods must accurately time his jump. Standing 5’11, he is at a disadvantage on 50/50 balls. A better timed leap levels the issue. Bigger receivers will test him down the field.
Tackling: Woods utilizes a downhill approach. In other words, he will fly into traffic and close efficiently. When Woods arrives, his method stands out. Woods brings pop to his tackles. Surprisingly, he does not sacrifice assignment integrity to deliver a shot. Woods’ stopping power is a product of his burst. Specifically, he sustains speed through the tackles. Five career forced fumbles provides evidence of a solid striker. The axiom in football is “drive through the ballcarrier” . Woods practices this belief.
Technique: Against plays veering away, Woods takes a crisp angle. Occasionally, the angle is a bit too sharp, allowing bonus yardage. Yet, that is the most noticeable flaw in his game. His backpedal and hip flip are smooth. Also, there are no false steps or mental breakdowns. When most safeties blitz, they bolt undisciplined toward the line of scrimmage. Woods arrives controlled with prime positioning.
Aggression: At heart, Woods is a safety with a linebacker mentality. He loves to hit. Jumping into the fray is what he does. There is an innate fearlessness required to play at a high level. Woods patrols the secondary with contact in mind and malice in his heart. Equally important is picking and choosing to strike.
Raider Fit: All things considered, Woods’ versatility versus the run and pass could aid in the Raiders in numerous ways. Teams like the Cardinals, Washington, or Panthers employ college safeties as linebackers. While smaller, these athletes can cover, play the run and blitz with speed. Woods’ can operate in that arena. He is a second/third day pick that adds immediate depth. Also, if strictly used as a safety, Woods is a suitable heir apparent to Reggie Nelson.
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