Scouting Reports:
Draft wire: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/jalen-pitre-scouting-report-2022-nfl-draft-baylor-bears-football/
Walter football: https://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2022jpitre.php
NFL Draft Buzz: https://www.nfldraftbuzz.com/Player/Jalen-Pitre-S-Baylor
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jalen-pitre
2022 NFL Draft: PFF Big Board vs. Media Consensus Board (S JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR (PFF Rank: 31, Consensus Rank: 55): Truthfully, there’s not much to dislike about Pitre other than the slot-only role he played in Baylor’s defense. The good news is that’s also becoming a starter for most teams in the NFL, and Pitre may even be more valuable because of it. His ability to play the run from the slot is unlike any prospect we’ve seen in our eight years of college grading. He earned a 92.7 run-defense grade and had 50 total defensive stops for Baylor last year. That ability gives whatever defense he goes to the ability to live in Nickel coverage because he’s just as good if not better than a linebacker at making plays in the run game.) (4-26-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-pff-big-board-media-consensus-board
NFL draft 2022: It wouldn’t be surprising to see Detroit Lions add cornerback, safety help (Baylor’s Jalen Pitre is one of those versatile names worth tracking at the back of Day 1. He played 601 snaps from the slot last season, allowing a passer rating of 55.2 when targeted. Pitre was more than willing against the run, leading all defensive backs with 47 run stops per PFF. There are also intriguing options on Days 2 and 3. It’s hard to ignore Tariq Woolen, Marcus Jones and Cam Taylor-Britt on Day 2. Taylor-Britt looks like a physical and versatile option in the defensive backfield. The Lions haven’t been shy to move their pieces around on the back end, so it’s easy to see them falling for someone like the Nebraska defensive back. Jones is an explosive playmaker widely regarded as the best returner available. He’s undersized but is a dynamo of a prospect.) (4-25-22): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/nfl-draft-2022-it-wouldnt-be-surprising-to-see-detroit-lions-add-cornerback-safety-help.html
2022 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Cornerbacks (6. JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR (BIG BOARD RANK: 31): Pitre was a massive reason for the Bears' defensive success in 2021. He led all defensive backs with 47 stops on the season while playing slot corner in Dave Aranda's defense.) (4-22-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-rankings-cornerbacks-derek-stingley-jr-kaiir-elam-ahmad-gardner-roger-mcreary
The 2022 All-Juice Team: Terez Paylor's kind of guys in the NFL draft (S Jalen Pitre: When we farmed out Juice Team requests to NFL scouting people, one name kept coming back to us more than any other: Pitre. He was a nearly unanimous selection, and it’s not hard to see why. Pitre was the heart and soul of the Bears’ defense the past two seasons, bringing frenetic energy, terrific athleticism and an outstanding nose for the ball every time he takes the field. Pitre is an easy player to like — a hybrid safety who can cover backs and tight ends, knife into the backfield as a run defender and be a core member of special teams. He studies hard, plays hard and will make his next team better immediately.) (4-19-22): https://sports.yahoo.com/the-2022-all-juice-team-terez-paylors-kind-of-guys-in-the-nfl-draft-140035606.html
2022 NFL Draft: 17 underrated prospects who could go earlier than expected (DB JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR (PFF Big Board Rank: 31st): Pitre was identified by league sources as a player who could go higher in the draft than initially expected. PFF already has him ranked higher than most sites inside our top 35. Pitre ran a 4.46-second 40-yard dash at his pro day after clocking a 6.74-second three-cone at the NFL Scouting Combine. He primarily played out of the slot with the Bears and earned a 92.7 run-defense grade in 2021, the best among FBS cornerbacks. His current projection, per sources, is anywhere from late in the first round into the middle of the second round.) (4-19-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-17-underrated-prospects-earlier-than-expected
2022 NFL draft: The top 11 safeties (4
Jalen Pitre, Baylor (Height: 5’11″ (19th) Weight: 198 (17th), Bench Press: 16 reps (43rd), Vertical Jump: 35 inches (42nd), 3-Cone Drill: 6.74 (86th), 20-Yard Shuttle: 4.18 (57th), Wingspan: 73 1/2 inches (19th), Arm Length: 30 5/8 inches (17th), Hand Size: 9 inches (15th)) Bio: A three-star recruit out of Stafford High near Houston, Pitre chose Baylor over SMU, and was the only recruit who stayed put after the Art Briles disaster. This proved to be the right move, as the high school linebacker and safety became a force multiplier in Dave Aranda’s concepts. An early enrollee and five-year starter, Pitre was named First-Team All-Big 12 in 2020 and returned both of his interceptions for touchdowns that season. He built on all that in 2021, allowing 31 catches on 54 targets for 268 yards, 141 yards after the catch, no touchdowns, two interceptions, six pass breakups, and an opponent passer rating of 55.2. He was named Consensus First-Team All-American, and the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. Over five seasons with the Bears, Pitre played 425 snaps at free safety, 367 in the box, 1,273 in the slot, 26 at cornerback, and 367 at the defensive line. Also, on 907 coverage snaps over those five seasons, Pitre never allowed a single touchdown. Stat to Know: Pitre was sent on blitzes on 17% of opponent quarterback dropbacks in 2021, by far the highest percentage for any NCAA safety — Ball State’s Bryce Cosby ranked second at 8%. Strengths: Pitre’s transition to more of a full-time safety is a bit of a projection because he played so much slot, but this fade interception against Texas State allows you to put him a few yards back in a two-deep alignment in your mind, and everything is just fine back there. He can peel off his first assignment and help in the back because he’s quick and fluid in his transitions. Pitre had two interceptions last season, but he had his hands on a lot more passes that were just a fingertip or two away from becoming picks. This end zone deflection against Oklahoma State shows how he can match up with bigger slot receivers and tight ends — he’ll just align and clamp down in coverage. This interception against Texas State shows how well Pitre can play that deep slot/STAR position we all know about via Jalen Ramsey. Why was Pitre sent so often on blitzes? Because he has a great sense of how to get past blockers, and an impressive close to the pocket. He put up five sacks and 25 total pressures last season. Weaknesses: If Pitre is to match with tight ends through the route at the NFL level, he’ll need to do so with positioning as opposed to physical strength; he can get bodied out pretty easily. Pitre’s NFL coaches will want to have him watching tackling videos pretty quickly. There are too many whiffs on his tape. Conclusion: If you need a firecracker player to accentuate your defense with aggressive play personality, slot speed, and high potential in free and blitz roles, Pitre might be at or near the top of your defensive back board. I’m not dumb enough to compare any college defensive back to Tyrann Mathieu, given the ways in which Mathieu can stitch a defense together at his NFL best, but if you squint a little, it’s not impossible to imagine that kind of effect if Pitre hits his ultimate ceiling. NFL Comparison: Jevon Holland. There are some elements of John Johnson III’s game with the Rams here when he played the STAR and slot positions as well as deep safety, but Pitre reminds me most of Holland, the former Oregon standout safety who the Dolphins took with the 36th overall pick in the 2021 draft. Like Holland, Pitre can do everything from slot to free to blitz, and he can make it look pretty easy. It’ll be fascinating to see where Pitre lands in the NFL — hopefully with a team that understands and knows how to utilize his athleticism and versatility. Even in an era where safeties are asked to do a lot of things at a very high level, it’s an interesting mix.) (4-19-22): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-the-11-best-safeties/
2022 NFL Draft: Safety prospect superlatives (BEST SLOT: JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR - This is quite literally who Pitre was for the Bears. Of his 2,109 career snaps, 2,065 came either in the box or slot. So, while he’s grouped with the safeties, he’s really never played that position. The good news is that slot is pretty much a full-time role in the NFL nowadays, and Pitre was as good as anyone in the country at it, earning grades of 88.6 and 82.7 the past two seasons.) (4-15-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-safety-prospect-superlatives
Charles Davis: 13 draft prospects I'd pound table for (Jalen Pitre - Baylor · S: Every year there's a player who just really stands out to me above his fellow prospects, and this year that player is Pitre. I saw him in person for the first time at the Senior Bowl. Every time he was on the field, I just had to follow him and he would lead me to where the play was being made. We sometimes overuse the term "ball magnet", but the label fits for this young man. I've highlighted defensive backs Antoine Winfield Jr. (in 2020) and Elijah Molden (in 2021) when they were prospects because of their instincts in the secondary, and I think Pitre is this year's version of those guys. I love his ability to run, hit and cover.) (4-13-22): https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-13-prospects-charles-davis-would-pound-the-table-for
2022 NFL Draft Better-Than Team: Here are 20 prospects Pete Prisco likes more than the scouts do (Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor: When you pop on his tape, he shows up all over the field. He isn't a big safety, but he has the speed to chase down plays and he's outstanding near the line of scrimmage. I think he is a lot like Tyrann Mathieu, who has become an All-Pro safety in the NFL after playing corner in college. Pitre will be the best safety in this draft class. Yes, better than the more-heralded Kyle Hamilton.) (4-13-22): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-better-than-team-here-are-20-prospects-pete-prisco-likes-more-than-the-scouts-do/
Oliver Hodgkinson’s Weekly NFL Draft Scouting Notebook: Triumphant testers with translatable talent (Q: The safety class has some depth and high-end talent. But they all provide different skill sets. Jalen Pitre and Daxton Hill are more nickel safeties, Lewis Cine and Jaquan Brisker are more part of a traditional tandem. How do you see their value in the draft, and where do they get chosen? – Kevin Sayer. You’ve hit the nail on the head with the depth. I have 20 safety prospects across my latest Top 300 Big Board, with a couple more who I intend to watch that could potentially sneak into the final edition. Like the wide receiver class, there’s a “pick your poison” approach to their rankings, with individual skill sets to meet every flavor. Kyle Hamilton is not only my top-ranked safety but my No. 1 overall player. Then, the four players you asked about fall in line from 2-5. Lewis Cine is my second-ranked safety, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him come off the board midway through the first round. We talked about him on a recent PFN Premier NFL Draft Podcast. There are very few holes in his game. Daxton Hill is close behind, and I’d be willing to bet on him being selected in the 20s. All three carry a first-round grade from me. Jaquan Brisker is a fringe first/early second-round pick, and I see Jalen Pitre as a mid-to-late second-rounder. There are plenty of teams with safety needs in the NFL Draft. In my eyes, the Dallas Cowboys have long been a favorite landing spot for Pitre. Meanwhile, I could imagine Brisker biting knee caps for Dan Campbell in Detroit. While I agree that Hill and Pitre are likely viewed as nickel safeties, I think Hill in particular has a versatile athletic profile and skill set to contribute from any alignment at the next level. Taller and longer than Pitre, he’s got the speed, twitchiness, hip fluidity, and lateral agility to cover the length and breadth of the field.) (4-8-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/oliver-hodgkinson-weekly-nfl-draft-scouting-notebook-04222022/
Top 10 Safeties in the 2022 NFL Draft: Kyle Hamilton, Daxton Hill, and Lewis Cine form the ‘Big Three’ (4. Jalen Pitre, Baylor: If you want a culture changer, coach on the field, and reliable DB, they don’t get much better than Jalen Pitre. He didn’t run in Indy but generated top-10 figures among all participants in the three-cone (6.74) and short shuttle (4.18). During his five-year career at Baylor, Pitre rarely saw time as a deep safety. Truthfully, he is more of a slot corner than anything else. But his instincts, short-area quickness, and motor are a defensive coordinator’s dream.) (4-7-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-safeties-2022-nfl-draft-kyle-hamilton-remains-the-top-of-the-class/
2022 NFL Draft Sleepers: Jalen Pitre stands out at safety (Jalen Pitre, Baylor: Arguably the biggest sleeper in the entire class, Jalen Pitre is high on many big boards. Baylor utilized Pitre like a Swiss Army knife. They lined him up everywhere because he could handle the responsibility both physically and mentally. PFN Draft Analyst Ian Cummings sat down with Pitre and quickly learned about the star safety’s passion for the game. So what’s the big concern with Pitre? Many are pointing to his size based on what teams will ask him to do. At 5’11”, 197 pounds, he can add weight to his frame, but he’ll always be considered somewhat undersized. It’s tough when you’re being compared to Hamilton, who stands 6’4″, 220 pounds. Luckily for his new team, Pitre plays the game bigger than his frame. He’s not afraid to attack. At one point, Pitre was considered a top-two safety in the class. For reasons largely unknown, he’s dropped to a second-round grade. Maybe the size is a real concern. However, reports state that teams are moving him up their big boards. A first-round talent you can draft in the second round? That’s the definition of a sleeper.) (4-7-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-sleepers-jalen-pitre-stands-out-at-safety/
2022 NFL Draft: Five players who could be surprising first-round selections (DB JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR: Pitre is a well-rounded defensive back with elite short-area quickness who played the “Star” role in Dave Aranda’s Baylor defense. He was one of the biggest risers at the Senior Bowl and put up PFF grades above 75.0 as a run defender, coverage defender and pass-rusher in each of the past two seasons. It’s not difficult to see NFL teams valuing his skill set in a hybrid nickel/safety/SAM linebacker role that gives defensive coordinators different solutions for different personnel groupings. The biggest concern when projecting Pitre to the NFL is that he’s undersized as a true safety, but his ability to track players in space and play with force should help alleviate those concerns.) (4-7-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-five-players-surprising-first-round-selections
2022 NFL Draft: Ranking the top safeties in this year’s class (Tier 3 - Jalen Pitre (Baylor), 5-foot-11, 198 pounds: I’ll be honest, over the past couple of years, I sort of lost some of the passion and love that I once had for studying NFL Draft prospects and watching film. But turning on the tape of Jalen Pitre helped resurrect some of that love for the grind. He is one of the most fun players to watch in this draft. Pitre simply has a knack for being around the ball at all times. He will likely play in the slot at the next level, but will also be asked to play near the LOS and rush the passer in blitz packages. I absolutely love his energy and can see him having a Tyrann Mathieu-type of impact for some lucky team if he reaches his ceiling. Round grade: 2nd-3rd round) (3-31-22): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/platform/amp/2022/3/31/22999784/2022-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-safeties-in-this-years-class
NFL Pro Day News and Rumors: Chigoziem Okonkwo and Trey McBride stand out (Senior Bowl standout Jalen Pitre ran for scouts and ran well. His times ranged in the mid-to-high 4.4s, and Pitre had a terrific day. Keep an eye on the Chiefs, who have 12 picks, including four on Day 2 of the draft. I’m told Kansas City likes Pitre in the Honey Badger role, despite signing Justin Reid.) (3-31-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-pro-day-news-and-rumors-chigoziem-okonkwo/
NFL Draft News and Rumors Roundup: Baylor standout sets visit with Ravens, UAB tight end to visit Cardinals, and more (Baylor defensive back Jalen Pitre, one of the biggest standouts of February’s Senior Bowl, has booked a Top 30 visit with the Baltimore Ravens, a league source told Pro Football Network on Friday. Pitre has seen his stock rise since the all-star game, as he routinely made plays during the week of practice against some of the top talent in this year’s class. Pitre followed up that performance with a strong NFL Combine. He did 16 reps on the bench press and ran a 6.74-second 3-cone drill. However, he decided to hold on his 40 time until Baylor’s pro day on March 30. Pitre produced 195 tackles (36 for loss), 8 sacks, 4 interceptions, 10 pass breakups, and 4 forced fumbles during his five seasons at Baylor. The 5-foot-11,198-pound defensive back also scored two defensive touchdowns. Like most former Baylor defensive backs, Pitre can play multiple positions in the secondary. While he’s been profiled as a stellar sideline-to-sideline free safety, he can also play in the box and work as a nickel corner. Pitre is Pro Football Network Chief Draft Analyst Tony Pauline‘s 54th overall prospect and the 40th ranked player on the PFN Consensus Board. Pauline graded Pitre as a second-round pick in his evaluation.) (3-25-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-news-and-rumors-roundup-ravens-cardinals-cowboys-2022/
2022 NFL Combine results: 8 standouts from the safety group (Jalen Pitre (Baylor, 5-foot-11, 198) didn’t run the 40-yard dash and when he took the field it took him a few drills to find a rhythm. He improved throughout the day and showed off his explosiveness, especially when moving forward.) (3-7-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/3/7/22964449/2022-nfl-combine-results-8-standouts-from-the-safety-group
2022 NFL Combine Stock Report - Defensive Backs (Up - Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor: Jalen Pitre didn't excel in the 40 like his Baylor teammates, but only because he didn't run it. Instead, Pitre flashed at the combine as a result of being outstanding and smooth in the on-field drills.) (3-6-22): https://walterfootball.com/combine2022stockDB.php
Combine preview: 12 safeties the Lions should be watching (Jalen Pitre, Baylor, 5-foot-11, 196 - Suggested by Ryan and Alex. Pitre has hybrid range, but unlike the others above him on this list, his experience extends to the linebacker level, not to corner. Pitre may not put up exceptional numbers at the Combine, but his biggest strength is his instincts, which helps mitigate a slower time or less explosive jump. In drills, he will very much look like a safety, and some may walk away unimpressed with his performance in Indianapolis, but his game film will keep him in the Day 2 conversation, and he might even be gone before the Lions' third-round pick.) (3-2-22): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/3/2/22952056/2022-nfl-combine-preview-12-safeties-detroit-lions
Top 2022 NFL Draft prospects to watch at the NFL Combine (Last but certainly not least is Baylor’s Jalen Pitre. The man can simply play ball. Pitre is sudden, shoots out of a rocket, and reads and reacts with quick processing.) (3-1-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-at-the-nfl-combine/
For Jalen Pitre, no detail goes overlooked on the path to the NFL Draft (2-25-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/for-jalen-pitre-no-detail-goes-overlooked-on-the-path-to-the-nfl-draft/
Building a defensive package with the top 2022 NFL Draft prospects: Defensive backs (The slot defender today exists on a thin line between the third linebacker and third cornerback, and Jalen Pitre has played in both of those roles in his career at Baylor. He collected 59 career run stops (29 tackles for loss or no gain) and received a positive grade on 12% of his 678 run-defense snaps. For reference, linebacker prospects Channing Tindall, Chad Muma and Christian Harris each logged a positive grade on 14% of their career run snaps. Playing for Dave Aranda/Ron Roberts and Phil Snow, Pitre spent much more time in split-safety coverages than single high, but he has a keen sense of route concepts and how to get into throwing windows, allowing a 56.0 passer rating in two-high zone coverages and getting his hands on 16% of his coverage targets.) (2-24-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-defensive-package-cornerback-safety
Lions 2022 Combine Preview: Safeties (Jalen Pitre, Baylor: As another slot defender, Pitre showed his coverage ability at the Senior Bowl. He stood out amongst a weaker group in Mobile, Ala. Much like the safeties above, Pitre has a nose for the football, and was in the opponent’s backfield plenty. He could be the best of the group against the run. The 5-foot-11, 196-pound defensive back is on the smaller side, and has hardly any experience playing deep. So again, certain teams may not even consider him a safety.) (2-23-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/combine-preview-six-safeties-lions-should-scout
Is Jalen Pitre Lions' No. 1 Safety of the Future? (2-17-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/is-jalen-pitre-lions-no-1-safety-of-future
2022 NFL Draft: Ranking the top five players at every position (2. Jalen Pitre: Other outlets may not have Baylor’s Jalen Pitre ranked this high, but he's shown a very intriguing skill set down in Waco, TX. The pure slot role he played at Baylor didn’t do him any favors when projecting to a more versatile safety position in the NFL, but I’m not too worried about it with the instincts he played with for Dave Aranda. I don’t know how he’ll test, but no one closed faster in short areas than Pitre on tape. It’s why he racked up an absurd 42 defensive stops to lead all Power Five defensive backs.) (2-10-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-ranking-top-five-players-at-every-position
Biggest winners from the 2022 Senior Bowl (S Jalen Pitre, Baylor: After playing as the “star” in the Bears’ defense, there were questions regarding Pitre’s position as a pro. Nonetheless, Pitre did what he was supposed to do, no matter the alignment, by making plays. When manned up against tight ends and receivers in the slot, Pitre showed the movement skills and eyes to lock down his matchup and the aggression and tackling ability to make an impact against the run and screen game. Likely to go in the top 50 picks, Pitre will fit perfectly in the role of Tyrann Mathieu or Budda Baker.) (2-7-22): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-senior-bowl-nfl-draft-malik-willis-christian-watson/
Final Senior Bowl Practice Risers and Sliders: Malik Willis, Jalen Tolbert, and Jalen Pitre among the biggest winners (Risers - Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor: Doing it all, quite literally, was the name of the game for Jalen Pitre. Covering tight ends, heads up on the line of scrimmage, or staying deep as a safety, Pitre was arguably the biggest winner in the defensive secondary. He was terrific in coverage, better against the run, and impressed with his ability to be physical with players that are much bigger than he is. Pitre plays a great game for his size and is the new prototypical NFL “movable chess piece” at safety. His game is reminiscent of many current NFLers, but the one that still jumps out is that of a smaller Derwin James. After his performance at the Senior Bowl, however, we may have to say that James plays like a bigger Jalen Pitre.) (2-5-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-practice-risers-sliders-final/
Senior Bowl recap: analysis, standouts (Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor: There were a lot of good defensive performances throughout the week. The conversation usually started along the defensive line, but the secondary had its share of standouts. Near the top of that list: Jalen Pitre, who measured only 5-foot-10, 196 pounds, but plays like he's 2-3 inches taller and 20 pounds heavier. He was all over the field Saturday, blanketing receivers in coverage or coming downhill with a purpose. Pitre excels in the slot, but he can also patrol deep centerfield or play in the box. Yes, he's undersized but you wouldn't know it to watch him.) (2-5-22): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/senior-bowl-2022-oklahoma-dl-perrion-winfrey-wins-mvp-malik-willis-showcases-potential-more-key-takeaways/live/
TWENTYMAN: 10 players who impressed at Senior Bowl practices (10. S Jalen Pitre, Baylor: Teams value versatility in the safety position, and Pitre has a lot of it. He was solid in coverage all week and his production at Baylor last year was terrific. He notched 75 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks with two interceptions and seven passes defended.) (2-5-22): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-players-who-impressed-at-senior-bowl-practices-johnson-willis-pickett
NFL draft: QB Malik Willis headlines winners and losers from the 2022 Senior Bowl (Baylor S Jalen Pitre: Pitre came in with questions about his pro position, but he exited the week having impressed many onlookers with his nose for the ball, coverage ability and tenacity. The coverage was the biggest crowd pleaser, giving the idea that Pitre might be successful in a Budda Baker or Tyrann Mathieu type of role. His intensity and hitting ability were well known coming in, but Pitre displayed a more well-rounded game than some anticipated. Illinois’ Kerby Joseph also had a good week at safety, building off a breakout final season for the Illini.) (2-5-22): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-qb-malik-willis-headlines-winners-and-losers-from-the-2022-senior-bowl-223734016.html
20 Senior Bowl players Lions fans should watch (Pitre is a hybrid safety/linebacker that is becoming ever popular position in the NFL. While the Lions don’t currently have anyone in that role on their current roster, it is a position they could be looking to add, and the Baylor prospect is one of the best at it in this class.) (2-5-22): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/2/5/22919089/2022-senior-bowl-watchlist-20-players-who-would-fit-the-detroit-lions-scheme
12 Senior Bowl players who stood out as potential Lions draft picks during the week of practices (Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor: It’s tough for safeties to show they can do much in practices when tackling is strictly forbidden. So when a safety keeps making plays and garnering praise like Pitre earned, it’s significant. His coverage skills and ability to play the ball in the air rocketed past his safety competition. He’s built like Lions safety Tracy Walker, a long but slender hybrid CB/S type of body. And he’s got the same kind of game, too. If Walker walks in free agency, drafting Pitre in the third or fourth round to replace him makes sense for Detroit.) (2-4-22): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-senior-bowl-detroit-lions-potential-draft-prospects-practice/
2022 Senior Bowl: Winners and losers from practices include Dameon Pierce and Tyler Badie (Jalen Pitre of Baylor and Illinois’ Kerby Joseph were mentioned as the top players from the safety spot. And it’s with good reason, as far as I’m concerned. Pitre looked sensational in coverage drills and proved he’s more than just a downhill safety. Joseph also played well in coverage and displayed outstanding range in the scrimmage.) (2-4-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-winners-and-losers-from-practices-include-dameon-piece-and-tyler-badie/
2022 Reese's Senior Bowl: 10 biggest risers (S JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR: In the one-on-ones throughout the week, Pitre was the best defensive back in coverage. He’s physical, instinctive and incredibly light on his feet. His ability to close in short areas is outstanding.) (2-4-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-reeses-senior-bowl-biggest-risers
2022 Senior Bowl Practice Report: National Team (Tuesday - Feisty, fast, and very effective. Battled opponents and did a terrific job against tight ends in coverage. Proved he could make plays moving in reverse rather than just up the field. Wednesday - Jalen Pitre continues to impress with his ball skills. He flips his hips in transition, stays with receivers throughout routes, and displays solid ball skills. Pitre has really come through the past two days. Thursday - The week got a lot better for Jalen Pitre on Day 3. It was already an impressive week for the Baylor safety, but his reps during 1-on-1s against some of the draft class’ best receivers were something extra. Pitre hung with bigger receivers and utilized an impressive aggressive nature of play at the line of scrimmage to make up for any size discrepancies. He’s proven he can cover like a cornerback, stuff the run like a linebacker, and rush the passer like an edge defender.) (2-3-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-practice-report-national-team/
Jeremiah: Top 10 draft winners from Senior Bowl (Baylor S Jalen Pitre: I was impressed with what Pitre did in coverage this week, especially when matched up against tight ends, who have a big size advantage over him (Pitre measured 5-10, 196). He's instinctive and was able to get his hands on some footballs. He looked like a starting NFL safety, and his production last season stood out. He was the only player in the Big 12 with 10-plus tackles for loss and two-plus interceptions.) (2-3-22): https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-senior-bowl-daniel-jeremiah-s-top-10-nfl-draft-winners-from-week-of-practic
Senior Bowl Practice Risers: Desmond Ridder, Jalen Pitre, and Jeremy Ruckert weather the storm on Day 2 (Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor: Jalen Pitre, who was a hybrid linebacker/safety in college, has displayed a well-rounded game at the Senior Bowl. Showing he’s much more than solely a run defender, he’s been terrific in coverage drills, displaying a quick pedal, smooth hip turn, and the ability to stay with receivers across the field or out of breaks. He’s shown next-level ball skills and proven he’s much more than an in-the-box run defender. — Tony Pauline) (2-2-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-risers-sliders-wednesday/
Senior Bowl Practice Risers and Sliders: Sam Howell, D’Vonte Price, and Dominique Robinson stand out (Risers - Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor: Lining up all over the field on defense, Jalen Pitre spent time in nearly every drill. And he looked great in doing so. It didn’t matter whether he was covering receivers from the slot, running backs out of the backfield, or if he was head up on a tight end running a route from the line of scrimmage — Pitre was sticky in coverage. Pitre also showcased great instincts in the run game and proved to be able to handle blockers on the perimeter. His size will reduce his appeal in the eyes of some teams, but he also was able to show an ability to fight off blocks, and his willingness to get chippy with blockers was apparent. He’s Derwin James, only shorter. — Cam Mellor.) (2-2-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-risers-sliders-tuesday/
2022 Senior Bowl Safeties: JT Woods, Tycen Anderson are strong riser candidates (National Team led by Baylor’s Jalen Pitre and JT Woods - The National Team has four exciting players at safety, but the most recognizable prospects are Baylor’s Jalen Pitre and JT Woods. While Pitre and Woods have some similarities stylistically with their fast play pace and physical style, their roles are quite different. Pitre is a homing missile in the box who can also shade out into the slot. He projects well into the STAR role in the NFL. Woods, meanwhile, is a long, explosive deep safety with single-high capabilities, able to erase big plays with his range.) (2-1-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-safeties/
2022 Reese’s Senior Bowl: Day 1 Practice Highlights, Analysis & Takeaways (SCB JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR BEARS (2021 PFF Grade: 86.0, 2021 Snaps: 909): Pitre plays the game similar to former Notre Dame Fighting Irish rover Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. The Baylor Bear primarily manned the slot this past year and was an all-around weapon due to his explosiveness, physicality and play recognition. He earned a 92.7 run defense grade, 83.6 pass-rush grade and didn’t allow a touchdown in coverage while intercepting two passes and breaking up six others. All of those traits and that high-level play were on display during Day 1.) (2-1-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-reeses-senior-bowl-day-1-practice-highlights-analysis-takeaways
NFL Draft: Reese's Senior Bowl Day One Recap - National Team Defense (There was one defensive back who stood out from the pack and that is Jalen Pitre. The versatile Baylor defender primarily played in the box and shined during team periods where he quickly processed the run and flew to the edge to force the play inside.) (2-1-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/nfl-draft-reeses-senior-bowl-day-one-recap-national-team-defense
2022 Senior Bowl preview: Top prospects, biggest sleepers (Top prospect: Jalen Pitre – Baylor - The unquestioned leader of the Bears secondary, Pitre totaled 130 tackles, 28.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, four interceptions, two defensive touchdowns, nine passes defended, four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries in 2020 and 2021. With position versatility on defense at a premium, Pitre lined up in the box and the slot, where he was tasked to man up tight ends and receivers in the slot, showing the movement skills to lock down his matchup and the aggression and tackling ability to make an impact against the run and blitzer off the edge.) (2-1-22): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-senior-bowl-nfl-draft-top-prospects-sleepers/
2022 Reese's Senior Bowl: Top draft prospect at every position (S: JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR (Draft Board Rank: 57th, 2021 Overall Grade: 86.0): Pitre may only be 5-foot-10 and 196 pounds, but don’t go thinking that means he’s not physical enough to play safety in the NFL. This dude sticks his nose in it snap after snap. He led all safeties with 25 pressures and 50 stops in 2021.) (2-1--22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-reeses-senior-bowl-top-draft-prospects-every-position
2022 Senior Bowl Preview | NFL Draft Superlatives (Best Tackler: Jalen Pitre) (1-31-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/2022-senior-bowl-preview-nfl-draft-superlatives
NFL Draft: Under The Radar 2022 Reese's Senior Bowl Prospects (Jalen Pitre, Safety, Baylor: One of the biggest surprises of the season were the Baylor Bears and their stout defense. Finishing 12-2 on the season and as a top-five team in the country, Pitre was a huge building block for the team. As a fifth-year senior, Pitre gave the defense veteran leadership on the back end. Started games as a true freshman in 2017 and was an impact player for four years while redshirting in 2019, before coming back for the 2021 season. Coming back for his fifth year paid huge dividends for his draft stock as he put together special games down the stretch. Pitre totaled 75 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and two interceptions, all while logging over 600 snaps in the slot, 100 in the box and 100 across the line of scrimmage. Pitre has been compared to players from the previous draft such as Jevon Holland, who put together an extremely impressive rookie campaign. Pitre was used in a similar way as Holland was at Oregon. Both have the ability to cover from the slot and be moved all over the box. He’s a smooth moving athlete that excelled in off-man coverage. Hips are fluid and feet move with receivers at the top of routes. Pitre was able to make plays at all times on defense and knew his assignment well, as he made splash plays when able to blitz off the edge after his receiver moved pre-snap. He has the athleticism and tackling ability to make an impact right away for an NFL defense and on special teams. NFL defenses have coveted safeties they can move and create different matchups with on the field and Pitre falls right in that line.) (1-30-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/nfl-draft-under-the-radar-2022-reeses-senior-bowl-prospects#gid=ci0298832aa003240b&pid=jalen-pitre-safety-baylor
Oliver Hodgkinson’s 2022 NFL Draft Risers: Cameron Thomas ascends into first-round range (Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor: As the Baylor defense has emerged as one of the best in the nation, Jalen Pitre has developed into one of the most formidable safeties in the 2022 NFL Draft class. After a slow start to his Bears career, the last two seasons have seen consistent ascension. His performances this season have solidified his standing as one of the most aggressive playmakers in the nation. We’ve seen Pitre do a little bit of everything this year. He’s played in multiple alignments, and his athletic profile ensures he’s as equally adept in coverage as he is at coming downhill with a vicious thunder. What’s been particularly impressive for me — and a key factor in his rise to a Day 2 prospect — has been the physicality beyond his frame that he brings to the table. That should help allay some concerns about his size at the next level. Furthermore, Pitre’s ability to excel from almost any alignment should erase the question mark about where he fits at the next level. The NFL is prone to overthink players like Pitre. Don’t overcomplicate it, just allow a destructive playmaker to do just that at the next level.) (1-21-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/oliver-hodgkinsons-2022-nfl-draft-risers-cameron-thomas-ascends-into-first-round-range/
Top NFL draft prospects in every 2021-22 college football bowl game (S JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR: While he’s a “safety,” Pitre was solely a slot corner for Baylor’s defense this fall. He was also far and away the team's best defender. He led all defensive backs in defensive stops (47). Look for him to come off the board on Day 2.) (12-21-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-every-college-football-bowl-game
PFN’s All-American Football Team Honors for the 2021 college football season (PFN First-Team All-American Defense - FLEX: Jalen Pitre, Baylor) (12-7-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-american-football-team-honors-for-the-2021-college-football-season/
PFN’s All-Big 12 Football Team Honors for the 2021 college football season (Big 12 Player of the Year: Jalen Pitre, Baylor. Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year: Jalen Pitre, Baylor. Big 12 Defensive Back of the Year: Jalen Pitre, Baylor. Without a doubt, Jalen Pitre was the most valuable player on the defensive side of the ball across the entire conference. It didn’t matter where he lined up, Pitre just produced. It helped that he literally lined up all over the defense and produced at just about every position imaginable. Pitre plays a much bigger game than his stature and commands every opposing offense’s attention. Baylor’s secondary key to their success - The Bears not only utilized an emergent offense, but they also relied heavily on their defense to win the Big 12. A huge portion of that was their prowess in the secondary. With Pitre leading the way and JT Woods patrolling the rest of the field, this allowed the Bears to play their cornerbacks on an island. That worked out to their advantage as Al Walcott and Raleigh Texada each recorded multiple plays on the ball and impressed seemingly every week. First-Team All-Big 12 Defense - FLEX: Jalen Pitre, Baylor) (12-7-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-big-12-football-team-honors-for-the-2021-college-football-season/
Underrated prospects to watch on championship weekend (Baylor S Jalen Pitre: Pitre has played the "star" position in Dave Aranda's defense this season, and he's excelled in the spot that gives him more free rein to roam. Pitre has 15.5 tackles for loss, a pair of interceptions, five pass breakups, and three forced fumbles on the season. On film, his athleticism immediately pops. He's sudden and pairs that twitch with serious speed to the football. Pitre feels like a Day 2 pick. ) (12-2-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-top-underrated-prospects-to-watch-during-college-footballs-championship-weekend/
22 draft: New QB1 among top 25 senior prospects (20) Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor (6-0, 197) (Previous rank: Not ranked): The dish on Pitre (pronounced pea-tree) is that he's a playmaker as a blitzer, run defender and in coverage. Consecutive plays in the third quarter of the Bears' victory over Texas three weeks ago sum up his game: First, he pushed two blockers into the backfield, which allowed his teammates to tackle star back Bijon Robinson for a loss. Next, he reached in front of an open receiver to knock down a pass and prevent a first down. Baylor lost at TCU the following week, but Pitre made his presence felt with three tackles for loss, a forced fumble and three pass breakups. He mostly played in coverage in the home win over Oklahoma last week but twice brought down running back Kennedy Brooks for losses on plays where he could attack the line of scrimmage.) (11-18-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-top-25-senior-bowl-prospects-entering-week-12-of-college-football
Detroit Lions 2022 draft watch: Another round of prospects for this Saturday (Jalen Pitre, Hybrid S/LB, Baylor (Senior) 6-foot-0, 200 pounds: Pitre plays a hybrid role for Baylor, spending time in coverage at safety, in the slot, at the linebacker level, and his responsibilities will even put him on the line of scrimmage at times. He is a terrific run defender and he explodes to the ball, often relying on his instincts and disciplined eye level to identify plays ahead of schedule. At his size, he is likely destined for a safety role in the NFL, but his ability to play off coverage will be appealing for the Lions if they are looking for a chess piece weapon on defense who can thrive in subpackages. His coverage skills will be tested against Oklahoma, but how he keys on their running game will be fun to watch.) (11-13-21): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/11/13/22778594/detroit-lions-2022-draft-watch-college-football-jalen-pitre-david-bel
2022 NFL Draft All-Prospect Team entering College Football Week 8 (SLOT: JALEN PITRE, BAYLOR: Pitre is in the midst of a massive senior season, as he’s only allowed 11 completions on 23 targets for 111 yards with two interceptions while manning the slot in Baylor's defense. His 25 defensive stops this year are six more than the next closest cornerback.) (10-22-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-all-prospect-team-college-football-week-8-2021
NFL draft prospects for the Lions to watch in college football Week 4 (Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor: Pitre is a redshirt senior whose game has morphed from an undersized linebacker to a playmaking safety in the “star” role in Baylor’s defense. Emphasis on playmaker: Pitre returned two INTs for TDs in 2020. In 2021, playing in a similar role to the way Michigan used Jabrill Peppers, Pitre has five TFLs and a sack in the first three games. He’s not as big or speedy as Peppers but appears to have more natural instincts in coverage, especially deeper from the line of scrimmage. The likely Day 2 selection and his Baylor mates host Iowa State (3:30 p.m., FOX) in a big game in the Big 12.) (9-25-21): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-prospects-detroit-lions-cfb-week-4/
2022 NFL Draft: Oklahoma loaded in Big 12 preview (Jalen Pitre is a physical safety with good burst and recovery speed. His specialty is playing downhill but he struggles to get off blocks in the box. The Texas native is certainly in the conversation to be taken on Day 2 of the 2022 NFL Draft.) (8-25-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-big-12-preview-oklahomas-spencer-rattler-iowa-states-breece-hall-among-prospects-to-know/
Big 12 Preseason All-Conference team ahead of 2021 college football season (Defensive Flex: Jalen Pitre, Baylor - One quick look at the laundry list of honors Pitre acquired last season demonstrates why he’s the perfect pick to be the defensive flex player on our Big 12 All-Conference first-team. He earned first-team All-Big 12 honors from the Associated Press at safety last fall. Pitre also made first-team All-Texas at linebacker by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football. Furthermore, he was an honorable mention for the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. Pitre was the epitome of a do-it-all player for the Bears last season. From coverage safety to pass rushing off the edge, Pitre compiled a gaudy stat line during 2020. He racked up 60 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble. Furthermore, Pitre became the first-ever Baylor player to record 2 interceptions in the same season. There’s no reason to presume that he can’t achieve the same production level in the second year of Dave Aranda’s tenure in Waco.) (7-21-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/big-12-preseason-all-conference-team-2021/2/
The PFF Preseason College Football All-Big 12 Team: Oklahoma QB Spencer Rattler headlines as the nation's top returning player (First-Team: Jalen Pitre, Baylor - Pitre took on a big role as a true freshman in 2017 but put forth a mediocre performance. He himself said it was tough to acclimate to Power Five ball in a complex system. In Year 2, his playing time dipped before a shoulder injury caused him to redshirt in 2019. Pitre came back at full strength in 2020 and was one of the most explosive and productive players at the position. He posted a grade above 80.0 against the run, as a pass-rusher and when dropping into coverage, paving the way for a top-five PFF overall grade among Power Five off-ball linebackers.) (7-1-21): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-all-big-12-team-oklahoma-qb-spencer-rattler-headlines-as-the-nations-top-returning-player-rankings
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