Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Limited range and length can affect his effectiveness in man-to-man coverage against taller NFL receivers.
• Over-aggressive pursuit angles occasionally lead to missed tackles or exploited gaps by opponents.
• While instinctive, sometimes late to diagnose plays, which could be exploited at the professional level.
• Can be overly committed on play-action, leaving zones uncovered.
• Struggles with maintaining ideal contain, particularly against misdirection plays, which may delay his response.
• After not running at the Combine he ran slower than expected (4.54) at his Pro-Day although he was recovering from a hamstring injury

Scouting Report: Summary

Malik Mustapha's presence on the field is unmistakable, showcasing a hard-hitting, aggressive style that is tailor-made for the physical demands of the NFL. He's proven himself capable of dominating near the line of scrimmage, excelling in run support with an ability to disrupt plays before they develop. His leadership and energy elevate team performance, making him a valuable asset in the locker room and on the field. However, his transition to the NFL will require refinement in coverage skills and decision-making, as his aggressive nature sometimes leads to blown assignments and missed opportunities.

Mustapha's versatility and football IQ allow him to be plugged into various defensive schemes, especially those prioritizing physicality and run support. His capability as a box safety and special teams contributor cannot be overlooked, providing immediate value. While he may not have the ideal range for a deep safety role, his instincts and play recognition can compensate to some extent.

The path ahead for Mustapha is clear: focus on enhancing his coverage techniques and mitigating over-aggression. With proper coaching and scheme fit, he has the potential to evolve into a well-rounded safety who can challenge both the run and pass. All of this makes him a solid mid-round pick with the upside to outperform his draft position.