2015 NFL Draft: Browns select Hayes Pullard at 219
By Thomas Moore
Sep 14, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Trojans defensive back Josh Shaw (6) and linebacker Hayes Pullard (10) celebrate stopping Boston College Eagles running back David Dudeck (26) short of a first down during second quarter action at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
The Cleveland Browns selected USC linebacker Hayes Pullard with the first of their two seventh-round draft picks, the 219th overall selection of the 2015 NFL Draft.
The 6-foot-4, 240-pound Pullard was an Honorable Mention All-Pac-12 selection in 2014 after leading the Trojans in tackles with 95.
According to his NFL.com profile, Pullard:
"Won’t hit the gas unless it’s necessary. Leverages outside runs and doesn’t give away cutback lanes very often. Athletic mover in space and has functional closing speed. Functional change-of-direction player. Transitions with smooth hips and acceleration to chase perimeter passes. Can mirror in man coverage and has solid ball skills. He’s willing to throw his body into a tackle. Scouts like his leadership."
CBSSports.com had this to say about Pullard:
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"Active athlete with rangy chase skills. Strong take-on skills with good bulk on his frame. Smooth transitional player with fluid movements to break down and rally to the ball. Natural instincts with good timing and anticipation in the run game to sniff out the play. Dissects and tracks the ball well, not getting fooled by eye candy. Physical striker with closing skills downhill, tackling low and wrapping through his target. Aggressive angles with the anger to finish. Highly active eyes and legs. Mature personality with attractive leadership traits. Durable four-year starter and two-year team captain, seeing time at both inside and weakside linebacker, also playing on special teams coverages. Highly productive with 377 total tackles and 20 passes defended, earning All-Conference honors each of the last four seasons."
The negative part of Pullard’s game is that he reportedly lets plays come to him and needs to play in a defense that cn keep him clean to be productive.
Pullard is the second player the Browns drafted today from USC, joining tight end Randall Telfer, who the Browns selected at No. 198.
What do you think of the Hayes Pullard selection?