2023 NFL Draft: Why the Jaguars Drafted Erick Hallett II
The Jacksonville Jaguars had already been busy in the 2023 NFL Draft before selecting versatile Pittsburgh defensive back Erick Hallett II. But by their 10th time on the clock, they couldn't avoid passing on Hallett and his upside again at No. 208 in the sixth round.
"The versatility of the player was something that was very attractive to us at that point in time in the draft," Jaguars general manager Trent Baalke said after the selectrion.
"He's played some safety. He's played some nickel. And, again, once we draft them and they get in here I think our coaches are looking at them in that same capacity. Where does he best fit? Is he competing for the nickel spot. Big nickel spot? You know, potentially the safety."
Hallett started 13 games in 2022, being named a Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist and Second-Team All-ACC after recording 54 tackles, four tackles for loss, nine pass breakups, and two forced fumbles.
Hallett started all 14 games at free safety in 2021, recording 70 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, three interceptions, nine pass breakups, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery while being named honorable mention All-ACC.
Hallett appeared in 10 games in 2020, recording 30 tackles, two tackles for loss, four pass breakups and two interceptions while also starting four games for Pittsburgh's secondary.
For now, it appears Hallett's ability to play all over the secondary has earned him the chance to fight for a spot on the Jaguars' depth chart. When it comes to the rookie defensive back, it is the first thing the Jaguars' brass kept coming back to as they recounted why Hallett was on their radar.
"It's the best thing to have. Guys that can play multiple positions. In his case he can play inside, outside, and eventually maybe play safety. They've got the skill set that is versatile enough to play multiple spots," Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson said about Hallett, who will join Antonio Johnson and Christian Braswell as rookies in the secondary.
"It's like tackles on offense or guards that can move in and play center and they have the ability to do that, because this is a game that injuries are going to happen. And if you've got guys that can play multiple positions and you can kind of plug and play, it just gives you an advantage to have as many of those guys on your roster."
