Bud Clark

Draft Projection

Measurements

Athletic Testing

Scouting Report

One of the most productive defensive backs in the class, finishing his TCU career with 15 interceptions, 21 pass deflections, and 214 tackles across 61 games with elite ball skills and instincts to drive on throws. The 6-0, 189-pound safety is versatile between deep safety and slot corner, but his thin frame and lunging tackling technique are consistent concerns requiring cleanup at the next level. Senior Bowl performance elevated his stock toward a potential Day 2 ceiling.

Player Comparison

Strengths

• Ball production jumps off the tape with 11 career interceptions - showcases rare ability to bait quarterbacks into dangerous throws before closing with explosion and timing.
• Exceptional route recognition in zone coverage where he reads quarterbacks like a poker player spotting tells, allowing him to consistently jump underneath routes.
• Fluid hip transitions when flipping from backpedal to full stride - maintains proper leverage while carrying receivers vertically without sacrificing positioning.
• Accelerates through his breaks with controlled aggression, showing the closing burst to erase separation and disrupt at the catch point with violent hands.
• Battle-tested against elite competition throughout his career - delivered in the biggest moments including his game-changing pick-six against Michigan in the CFP.
• Improved tackle production each season (career-high 67 in 2024) with increasing confidence as a run defender, particularly when coming downhill from depth.
• Takes proper angles to the ball carrier in space, rarely overshooting his target or getting manipulated by subtle cuts in the open field.
• Natural leadership qualities as a two-time team captain who commands respect through his play and communication pre-snap.

Areas to Improve

• Frame lacks ideal bulk for the position at just 185 pounds - will need to add functional strength to handle NFL tight ends at the catch point.
• Can get washed out against the run when forced to take on pulling linemen or lead blockers - struggles to deconstruct blocks with consistency.
• Missed significant time with injuries early in his career, raising some durability concerns despite solid availability over the past three seasons.
• Occasionally takes unnecessary gambles jumping routes, leaving him vulnerable to double moves and vertical shot plays behind his coverage.
• Tackling technique can be inconsistent - sometimes leads with shoulder instead of wrapping up, resulting in broken tackles against more powerful runners.