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While the Eagles seemingly upgraded at cornerback in free agency, there are still needs in the secondary. Earl Wolff has shown flashes, but Malcolm Jenkins could use an upgrade next to him. With Nate Allen in Oakland, the Eagles will likely need to look towards the draft for his replacement. Central Florida safety Clayton Geathers may be an option for Philadelphia.
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College Career
A native of Georgetown, South Carolina, Geathers committed to Central Florida in 2010. He played in one game as a true freshman and had two tackles. His initial season was considered a redshirt, so his second season was titled his redshirt freshman year. He started all 12 games at strong safety and produced 67 tackles and six pass breakups. As a sophomore, Geathers started all 14 games at strong safety and compiled 117 tackles, two forced fumbles and five pass breakups.
As a junior, Geathers collected 100 tackles (4.5 for loss), two forced fumbles, two interceptions and 10 pass breakups in 13 starts. Last season, Geathers was named all All-American after producing 97 tackles (6.5 for loss), a sack, a forced fumble, an interception and nine pass breakups.
He was invited to the Reese's Senior Bowl.
Combine Results
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 218 lbs.
Arm Length: 31 5/8"
Hands: 9 1/8"
40: 4.55 sec.
Bench: 22 reps
Vertical Jump: 37.0 inch
Broad Jump: 120.0 inch
3-Cone: 7.21 sec.
Shuttle: 4.27 sec.
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Strengths
A "bigger" safety who plays very aggressive, Geathers uses his size well. A big hitter who likes to smack ball carriers, Geathers is very, very physical. He is solid in coverage and doesn't have a lot of tightness in his hips. He is very good at using his long arms to breakup passes and can bait quarterbacks with ease. He is good at reading the quarterback's eyes and jumping routes. He was used on special teams and played well when his number was called for the unit.
Weaknesses
At times, Geathers is too aggressive or physical and will go for the shoulder tackle over using technique. He will allow catches in coverage and also takes poor angles against the run. While he is big, he's not the strongest guy at the position.
Eagles Outlook
The Eagles are likely looking for young upgrades in the secondary after settling for mediocre for the last two seasons. Geathers could team with Jenkins to form a big safety group. The rookie has four years of starting experience from his college days and may be quick to adjust to the NFL.