Jalen Mayo CB Houston |
NFL Draft Profile & Scouting Report

Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Gave up 221 yards on his 11 catches, about 20 yards a catch
• Average timed speed limits his recovery on deep routes
• Light frame that stronger NFL receivers can test
• Only one season of FBS experience after three at Division II

Scouting Report: Summary

Mayo's story is one of the best in this class. He started his career at Division II Virginia Union, moved up to the FCS at Stephen F. Austin, where he intercepted four passes and was a first-team All-Southland pick, and followed his position coach to Houston, where he is now a starting cornerback for a ranked team. He has earned every step, and he has allowed only 11 catches on 24 targets this season.

He does his best work in zone coverage, where he reads the quarterback, keeps receivers in front of him and breaks on the ball with conviction. His leaping one-handed interception at Texas Tech showed his ball skills, and he has five pass breakups, a sack and a forced fumble in seven games. He is also a willing run defender and blitzer, and he has been part of a defense that has helped Houston to a 6-2 record and a No. 18 ranking.

However, he is still adjusting to the level of competition. The catches he has allowed have gone for 221 yards, about 20 yards a catch, and Oregon State and Texas Tech both hit big plays against him. His timed speed is average, which limits his recovery when receivers get a step deep, and his frame is light for an outside corner against stronger NFL receivers. He has also missed four tackles and played only one season of FBS football.

Overall, Mayo is a long, instinctive zone corner whose ball skills and rapid rise make him one of the more intriguing late-round projects in the class. He projects as a fourth-round corner with the ceiling of a starter in a zone-heavy scheme and the floor of a special teams contributor and reserve. His toughness and work ethic, shown at every level, should help him make an NFL roster.