Jaden Hicks (S) – Washington State / Sophomore
6’1-7/8″, 211 Lbs. (Combine)
2022 Stats: 13 Games, 45 Solo, 31 Assists, 76 Total, 2TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT, 6PD, 1FR, 1 FRTD
2023 Stats: 12 Games, 49 Solo, 30 Assists, 79 Total, 6TFL, 2.5 Sack, 2INT, 1TD, 4PD, 1FF
{Reference: https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/jaden-hicks-1.html}
Awards: #10 Solo Tackles PAC-12 (2023); #7 INTs PAC-12 (2023); #1 INTs Returned for TDs PAC-12 (2023)
Measurables (Combine):
| Hand | Arm | Wing |
| 9-3/8″ | 31-1/2″ | 76-1/4″ |
| 40-Dash | 10-Split | Vertical | Broad | 3-Cone | 20-Shuttle | Bench |
| *** | *** | 37.5″ | 10’2″ | 6.88 sec | 4.37 sec | *** |
RAS: (Available post-combine/pro day)
Games Watched: 2023 Vs. Washington, 2023 Vs. Arizona St.
PRO’S
High motor player with a great combination of length and physicality. Versatility, spent time in the box (457 snaps), deep (200 snaps) and as a nickel CB (103 snaps) in 2023. Hicks is not afraid of contact, he gladly mixes it up with OL and RBs forced to pick up the blitz when he’s coming free. Aggressive, diagnoses run plays quickly and commits to becoming a run defender. Good ball skills, 3 INTs & 10 passes defended over 2 years as a starter.
CON’S
Very aggressive downhill when attacking the run, would like to see him a bit more under control as he closes the gap between himself and the ball carrier. At times when taking on OL, it appears he believes he is bigger than he is, he takes on the blocks rather than avoiding them and he gets washed out of the play. His eyes deceive him at times in zone coverage. Tight hips, limited straight line speed.
OVERALL
Hicks 8.8 average yards per reception given up is the 13th fewest amongst all draft eligible Safeties and his 24 stops as a run defender is the 6th most amongst all draft eligible safeties. Hicks is an aggressive player who seems locked in from the time the 1st whistle blows until the game ends, coaches will love that. There are a few things Hicks needs to improve on including his zone skills, his ability to read the QB and finishing cleanly at the ball carrier. That being said, I think Hicks has the potential to turn into an every down player at the next level.
Completed by: @coachschepps, 02/03/24
Reviewed & edited: J. Clark, 02/03/24
