Strengths:
Hooker is a true ball magnet. He received first-team All-American and All-Big Ten accolades this past year with 74 tackles, seven picks, and four pass breakups. Hooker is super aware of his coverage area and a willing tackler. This past season, he played some man coverage but is best when playing single high safety, and allowed to roam the field. He should thrive in a cover one or cover three scheme. With a high football IQ and above average athletic ability there will be plenty of NFL teams willing to take a chance on Hooker.
Weaknesses:
One concern for Hooker is the lack of tape, as he was a one year starter at Ohio State. He's raw and could struggle at early on at the next level. Like many young safeties, Hooker is prone to over-aggression as a tackler and in coverage. He's an arm tackler, which resulted in in him missing 17 tackles this past season. Not the most physical cover guy when matched up against tight ends.
NFL Comparison: Reggie Nelson
Written by Rob Michels