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NFL Safety Prospect - C.J. Spillman
Photo - Safety C.J. Spillman - Marshall
Marshall University's C.J. Spillman has accepted an invitation to play in the 84th Annual East-West Shrine Game, scheduled for Jan. 17, at the University of Houston. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. (ET) and the game will be televised by ESPN2.
Spillman has been a standout free safety that earned him a 2008 and 2007 second-team All-Conference USA selection for the Thundering Herd. The Louisville (Ky.) native finished his collegiate career with 319 career tackles and three interceptions in 46 games. Last season he was credited with 71 total tackles and four pass breakups in 11 contests.
Player Report- He is an athletic safety with the toughness to play In the Box and make tackles with the speed and agility to match up in coverage. He is a free safety prospect with adequate size and good instincts, speed and overall athleticism. He is fluid in coverage with a sound backpedal and quick feet to mirror receivers and the flexible hips to retain his fine speed in short areas and matchup in man coverage. He can make a play with the ball in the air and with the ability to hit receivers and separate them from the pass. In run support, he fills the hole quickly and instinctively with the sure tackling to finish the play. He plays off blockers well and forces the play inside. He is a sound tackler who can deliver a big hit and force a turnover. At times, his play lacks discipline and he can be vulnerable in the deep game. He shows the ability to be a tough gunner on special teams where his size, speed and toughness should allow him to contribute immediately in that role in his pro game. Currently, he projects as a middle round selection with critical tests at the East-West Shire game and NFL Combine in February that could move him up the rankings quickly with strong performances.
Frank Coyle has been a scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl All-star game for the past 15 years, in addition to annually consulting other All-Star classics.