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04/24/2013 - 2013 NFL DRAFT RANG'S GANG: CB: Micah Hyde, Iowa, 6-0, 197, 4.52...Perhaps because Iowa finished just 4-8 last season, Hyde hasn't received the NFL draft buzz he deserves. Awarded the Tatum-Woodson Defensive Back of the Year in the Big Ten and honored as a co-MVP for the Hawkeyes, one can't characterize Hyde as underrated, but in proving more than respectable speed at his size at the combine, he silenced critics who questioned whether he had the athleticism to remain outside in the NFL. In reality, if a team moves him to safety at the next level, it will only be to take better advantage of his instincts and reliable tackling. - Rob Rang, NFLDraftScout.com
OVERVIEW
Hyde set numerous high school records as a quarterback and defensive back in Ohio and grew up a Buckeyes' fan. However, he didn't receive much attention from Ohio State or other Big Ten schools, except Iowa.
Shortly after arriving in Iowa City, Hyde moved full-time to the secondary and proved to be a special team' ace as a true freshman. After starting 13 games at cornerback in 2010, he moved to free safety in 2011 for a few starts before kicking back out to cornerback for the final 11 contests. Hyde stayed at cornerback for his senior season and finished among the league leaders in passes defended with 15.
Although he looks more like a safety at 6-1, 190, he is expected to stay at cornerback for the next level due to his natural instincts and football smarts, but also has the versatility to move to free safety if needed. Under the watch of head coach Kirk Ferentz, Iowa has been well-known for producing offensive linemen to the next level, but over the past five years, the Hawkeyes have sent more defensive backs to the NFL.
Awarded the Tatum-Woodson Defensive Back of the Year in the Big Ten and honored as a co-MVP for the Hawkeyes, one can't characterize Hyde as underrated, but in proving more than respectable speed at his size at the combine, he silenced critics who questioned whether he had the athleticism to remain outside in the NFL. In reality, if a team moves him to safety at the next level, it will only be to take better advantage of his instincts and reliable tackling.
ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS: Willing, disciplined tackler and does a nice job in the open field with good strength for the position. Reliable in one-on-one tackle situations and drives on the ball with a physical nature, fighting off blocks to be a factor. Always plays alert with top-shelf instincts and football smarts.
Understands body positioning and timing in coverage, battling for the ball and making it tough for receivers to finish. Natural ballskills and reads the quarterback well to make plays on the ball. Good experience on special teams, including as a return man. Versatile experience with time at safety and cornerback.
WEAKNESSES: Not a quick-twitch athlete and lacks the hip flexibility ideal for the position. Doesn't have great top-end speed and will struggle to stick with receivers vertically. Shows some tweener traits and will be viewed as a cornerback for some and safety for others.
Rises out of his stance and opens his frame too early. Needs work with his backpedal and room to improve his transitional technique. Has some character concerns after an arrest Oct. 13, 2012 at 3 a.m. for public intoxication.
