AnySelected

The NFL Draft is looming, and teams are meticulously evaluating talent. Our summer scouting series continues with a deep dive into TCU Horned Frogs safety, Bud Clark. This report provides an in-depth analysis of Clark's strengths, weaknesses, and potential fit at the next level, helping you prepare for the upcoming fall season and draft discussions.

Bud Clark: A Rising Star in the Secondary

Bud Clark has quickly emerged as one of the most intriguing safety prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft class. His performance during the 2023 season solidified his status as a key contributor for TCU, and scouts are taking notice. Clark isn't just a name; he’s a player demonstrating the traits teams covet in a modern safety: versatility, intelligence, and a willingness to contribute in all facets of the game.

Strengths: Coverage Prowess and Versatility

Clark's coverage skills are arguably his biggest asset. He possesses excellent instincts, allowing him to anticipate routes and break on the ball effectively. He's comfortable playing both deep zone coverage and in the slot, showing a surprising agility for a safety. His ability to mirror receivers and close quickly is a significant advantage. Beyond coverage, Clark demonstrates a willingness to tackle and isn't afraid to come up in run support. He’s shown a knack for reading plays and filling gaps effectively. His football IQ is evident in his pre-snap reads and adjustments post-snap.

Weaknesses: Physicality and Play Speed

While Clark’s intelligence and coverage abilities are impressive, there are areas for improvement. He's not the most physically imposing safety, and could benefit from adding more strength to better shed blocks and deliver more impactful hits. While his agility is good, his straight-line speed could be a concern for some teams, particularly when tracking down faster receivers deep downfield. He occasionally hesitates when facing larger, more physical ball carriers, suggesting a need to improve his tackling technique against power runners.

Projection & NFL Fit

Bud Clark projects as a potential starting safety in the right scheme. His coverage skills make him a valuable asset in today's pass-heavy NFL, and his versatility allows defensive coordinators to utilize him in a variety of roles. Teams looking for a smart, instinctive safety who can excel in coverage should strongly consider Clark. He fits best in a scheme that values zone coverage and utilizes safeties in a hybrid role, contributing both in coverage and run support. He'd be a good fit for teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Seattle Seahawks, or Baltimore Ravens, who frequently utilize their safeties in creative ways.

Summer Scouting Summary

Bud Clark is a compelling prospect with a high ceiling. While he has areas to improve, his strengths – particularly his coverage skills and football IQ – make him a potentially impactful player at the next level. Keep a close eye on his development throughout the fall season; he has the potential to significantly rise up draft boards.