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 NCAA Scouting – Player Profile:
Marcus Griffin, FS
by Paul Hopkins
24/2/2008
Early projections have hard-hitting free safety from the University of Texas, Marcus Griffin as the third best free safety to enter the NFL draft in 2008, and going as high as the late secound round.
The twin brother of the former Longhorns safety and first round pick in 2007, Michael Griffin, Marcus is another product of the Longhorns defensive back conveyer belt in recent years. Having produced the likes of Quentin Jammer, Michael Huff, Aaron Ross and Michael Griffin, Marcus is next to step up to the pro game.
 Griffin, who earned first-team All-Big 12 and second-team Academic All-Big 12 honors in 2007, played in 49 career games, starting 23, and posted 231 tackles, three TFL, a sack, five INTs, eight PBU, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He led the team in tackles (99) and INTs (five) in 2007 and also had five PBU, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
What we like about Griffin
Determination Griffin was originally a walk-on at Texas who, through determination worked his way onto the team deserved his success. His major strength is against the run, far better in the box than in pass coverage, where he can be exposed. making use of his strong tackling ability, and skill at stripping rushers of the ball. He is able to get around the ball frequently and more often than not, make a play.
He has excellent football knowledge and toughness, and should impress scouts in interview with his ability to learn and adapt. There is certainly scope for his coverage skills to improve with work. He will be able to contribute from day one on special teams.
Question marks over Griffin
Speed has to be a concern. Griffin has struggled previously at times and can be exposed. It will need to improve for him to make the step up to start in the NFL. His coverage in man to man situations is moderate and ball skills are average. He is also perhaps a little under-sized for the position and that may be a concern for franchises.
Highlight of his college career
 Albeit not as a major part of the secondary, Marcus played a role in the University of Texas’ national championship run in 2005, playing in all 13 games and recording 32 tackles at free safety and on special teams.
Other snippets
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Marcus’ parents, Ronald and Mae, are both retired from the United States Armed Services.
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Marcus holds the record for the 3rd longest interception return for the University of Texas 91 yards against Baylor in October 2006 (the longest in 71 years).
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NFL players Marcus is similar to: Michael Griffin of the Tennessee Titans (unsurprisingly)
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Possible good fits: Carolina, Seattle, Jacksonville, Denver.
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