Here's what I wrote on Powell:
"Why did Tyvis Powell go undrafted? A team captain at Ohio State last season, and the defensive MVP in the 2014 national title win over Oregon, Powell has the ideal size and athleticism for the position, at 6’ 3” 211 pounds and running a 4.46 second forty time. Schneider’s comments upon signing Powell expressed shock at being able to sign him: “[We] had a very high grade [on him]” and that “[we were] surprised we were able to get him.”
One reason for Powell’s UDFA status is his tackling technique, which is subpar, despite his total of 195 tackles in college. For a man of Powell’s size – which would suggest he projects best as a strong safety – a big hit on most tackles would be expected. Instead Powell ducks his head into contact and sometimes has running backs fall forward when he meets them. He does not come downhill on runners aggressively, appearing rather timid as he allows them to run toward him. This style gives the impression that contact is viewed as a necessary evil of the game, rather than a part to enjoy. The angles he takes when in pursuit of the ball carrier also needs work, and Powell would benefit from tracking the play-side hip of the runner more consistently. These technique issues contributed to 13 missed tackles by Powell in 2015. This did not go unnoticed from other college programs, with a Big Ten offensive assistant stating that “our game plan was to run at him and away from Vonn [Bell].”
His ability to play well against the run is further worsened by the difficulty he has in freeing himself from blockers. Dissatisfactory tackling and play when defending against the run has led some analysts to suggest that Powell would be better suited at free safety, but his production and frame should not be ignored. Furthermore, the mentorship of Kam Chancellor should aid him in being a more effective hitter and tackler, as should the previously mentioned ‘Hawk Tackle’ coaching that the Seattle Seahawks preach.
In addition to Powell’s prototypical size, his big-play ability is a major attraction. In the big games, Powell makes game-changing plays. As a redshirt freshman, he intercepted Michigan’s two-point attempt – jumping in front of wide receiver Drew Dileo to win the game for Ohio State. In the 2014 college football semi-final he picked off Alabama’s end-of-game Hail Mary. He intercepted Notre Dame quarterback DeShone Kizer in the 2015 Fiesta Bowl against Notre Dame, but it was negated due to a targeting call on Joey Bosa.
Powell’s main skill in pass coverage was his field awareness, with the safety displaying a good understanding of where his fellow teammates were. He plays with excellent range, which saw him cover for teammates’ mistakes in coverage. The Buckeyes even had him covering men in the slot – including tight ends and running back / wide receiver hybrids. Turnovers were also forced by Powell, as he registered eight interceptions in three years of Buckeyes football – with over three in the past two years. Even when attending the Senior Bowl, Powell registered interceptions in practices. The negatives in his pass coverage include his tendency to allow receivers to eat up his cushion, and also his occasional habit of relinquishing deep responsibility when focusing too much on the QB’s eyes rather than the receivers.
Powell – who clearly understands why he went undrafted – will go into a deep backup safety competition which includes SS Kelcie McCray,who filled in admirably during Chancellor’s holdout, and FS Steven Terrell. Powell could also make the roster as a backup to Browner’s role as a third safety. Physical cornerback Tharold Simon could also be a part of the competition for this job, in addition to the previously mentioned McEvoy."
The full article, including video, can be found here:
http://insidethepylon.com/film-study/fi ... ary-udfas/
It features other UDFA signings for Seattle's secondary.