Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Can get too aggressive in run fits, taking himself out of plays by overrunning angles or launching rather than breaking down in space against elusive ball carriers.
• Despite impressive testing and play speed, occasionally shows minor transition limitations when matched against elite athletes in man coverage situations.
• Sometimes relies too heavily on physical traits rather than technique when taking on blocks – needs to improve hand usage and leverage when engaged by bigger blockers.
• Has occasional moments of overconfidence in his instincts, making him susceptible to play-action or misdirection when quarterbacks manipulate him with their eyes.
• Body composition could use more functional muscle mass – while weight is solid, frame appears capable of carrying additional 5-8 pounds without sacrificing movement skills.

Scouting Report: Summary

Thieneman has legitimate first-round talent with the leadership qualities and versatile skill set defensive backfields covet. His tackling technique stands as his calling card – delivering punishing hits with textbook form that NFL coaches won't need to fix. Though occasionally over-aggressive when triggering downhill, his instincts typically put him in position to make impact plays. The tape reveals a defender with exceptional diagnostic ability who translates film study to on-field production. What truly separates him is rare athletic testing combined with football I.Q. that allows him to play even faster than his impressive timed speed.

His professional approach and preparation habits have already become legendary at Oregon, where coaches marvel at his obsession with improvement. The 2025 season represents a golden opportunity to showcase his abilities against elite competition while refining techniques in man coverage situations against top-tier athletes. While his overall game presents few glaring weaknesses, NFL decision-makers will watch closely how he handles coverage responsibilities against premier Pac-12 receivers. His experience in Oregon's multiple defensive looks should accelerate his professional learning curve.

The modern NFL demands safeties capable of executing various assignments while providing run support without sacrificing coverage ability. Thieneman fits this mold with room still to develop. Though he'll need to add functional strength to his frame and polish his block-shedding technique against larger opponents, these are refinements rather than rebuilds. His junior campaign at Oregon will determine whether he remains in the first-round conversation or settles into day two consideration.