2025 NFL Draft Profile: Jay Higgins, LB, Iowa

Pros:

Sideline-to-sideline motor – put up gaudy tackle numbers. Routinely cleans up plays all over the field.

Textbook wrap-up tackler with minimal whiffs, serving as a reliable last line of defense against the run.

Plus coverage skills for an off-ball backer, showing the chops to hang in nickel packages at the next level.

Stout at the point of attack, consistently winning the leverage battle and stuffing inside runs with authority.

Natural field general, quarterbacking the defense and earning the trust of the coaching staff as a team captain.

High-floor prospect who brings it every snap, logging double-digit tackles in most outings during his breakout year.

Special teams ace early in his career, offering immediate four-phase value as he develops into a defensive contributor.

Football IQ off the charts, displaying uncanny anticipation and always seeming to be around the rock.

Cons:

Lacks ideal bulk for an inside backer, potentially struggling to stack-and-shed against NFL-caliber road graders.

Straight-line speed is pedestrian, potentially limiting his ability to recover if caught out of position at the next level.

Minimal production as a blitzer, raising questions about his ability to impact passing downs as more than a coverage defender.

One-year wonder as a full-time starter, leaving scouts wondering if he can replicate his production consistently.

May need time to adjust to NFL offensive complexity after thriving in Iowa’s relatively straightforward defensive scheme.

Summary:

Jay Higgins has the potential to excel as a three-down WILL linebacker in a 4-3 defensive scheme. His exceptional instincts and coverage skills enable him to remain effective in various packages. Higgins’ tackling ability and proficiency in stopping the run should make an immediate impact, allowing him to contribute significantly from day one in both run defense and passing situations.

While his size and athleticism may be average, limiting his adaptability to various defensive schemes, Jay Higgins is well-suited for a 4-3 defense that features a strong front four. His experience on special teams will provide an opportunity for early playing time as he adjusts to the faster pace of professional football.

Although Jay Higgins may lack elite physical attributes, his impressive production, football intelligence, and versatile skill set establish him as a reliable prospect with a high floor. He’s likely to be selected on day two and projects as a sturdy starter with the potential to exceed expectations due to his consistency and multifaceted abilities.