Javon Scruggs NFL Draft

The NFL Draft is always full of big names, but every year there are also tough, smart, overlooked players who fight to earn a chance. Javon Scruggs, a safety from Liberty University, fits that second group perfectly. He is not the tallest or the fastest player on the board, but he is a proven leader, a reliable tackler, and a film junkie who understands how to play winning football. In this guide, we will walk through who Javon Scruggs is, how he played in college, what he brings to an NFL defense, where he fits in the league, and what his NFL Draft journey can look like for teams and fans who are still getting to know him.

Who Is Javon Scruggs?

Background and a Powerful Comeback Story

Javon Scruggs is a safety who starred at Liberty University. Before his college career, he experienced a serious car accident in high school. Many athletes would have walked away from football after that. Scruggs did the opposite: he tackled recovery the same way he tackles ball carriers—head-on, with patience and determination. That story shaped his reputation as a resilient leader and a player who never backs down from hard work. It also made him a natural captain in college and someone coaches trusted when games got tight.

Choosing Liberty and Growing Into a Leader

Liberty does not grab national headlines like the biggest programs, but the Flames have built a highly competitive football program in recent years. Scruggs jumped into that environment and made an impact on and off the field. He rarely missed assignments, communicated well with teammates, and set standards in the locker room. On Saturdays, he was the steady voice in the secondary—the one who lined people up, anticipated formations, and made sure everyone knew the coverage rules.

College Career at Liberty

Roles and Responsibilities in the Flames’ Defense

At Liberty, Scruggs played multiple roles in the secondary. He lined up as a split safety in two-high looks, rolled down into the box for run support, and took snaps in the slot against tight ends or bigger receivers. That kind of versatility is valuable in today’s NFL because offenses move players around constantly and force defenses to adjust. Scruggs’ job was to be the fixer—the safety who plugs the small leaks before they become big plays.

Production and Impact Plays

Scruggs’ career production reflects his style: steady, physical, and alert. Across multiple seasons, he recorded well over 200 total tackles, along with interceptions and pass breakups that came from reading quarterbacks and understanding route concepts. He was not simply running to the ball after it was caught; he often anticipated throws and closed windows with good timing. Coaches trusted him near the line of scrimmage because he took smart angles and finished plays with secure tackling technique.

Big Games and Moments That Stand Out

Liberty’s climb included several high-profile games and bowl appearances, and Scruggs typically showed up well in those spots. He helped stabilize the defense against spread attacks, kept explosive plays in check, and handled communication responsibilities when crowd noise or chaos could have rattled younger players. If you watch Liberty’s defense during his tenure, you can feel his presence in how organized the back end was, especially on third downs and in the red zone.

Leadership, Intangibles, and Accountability

Being a captain is more than wearing a patch. For Scruggs, it meant holding teammates accountable, staying late to watch film, and setting a consistent tone during the week. NFL teams love prospects who raise the floor of a meeting room, and Scruggs’ coaches routinely praised his maturity and voice in the program. Those intangibles matter when a young player transitions to professional life with long seasons and detailed playbooks.

Physical Profile and Tools

Frame and Athleticism

Scruggs brings a compact, strong frame typical of modern safeties who can survive in traffic. He is built more for contact and leverage than for pure height and length. On the field, he plays with short-area quickness, lateral agility, and enough burst to close on the ball. His speed might not be elite for single-high roles, but his play speed looks faster because he reads offenses well and takes clean angles. Those instincts help him play to his strengths.

Durability and Toughness

After his high school accident, simply returning to college football at a high level shows uncommon toughness. At Liberty, Scruggs handled a large workload over several seasons. He played through bumps and bruises, finished games, and kept his technique consistent. NFL special teams coaches value that kind of reliability, especially from depth safeties who need to contribute in all four phases.

Testing and Pro Day Takeaways

For prospects like Scruggs, pro day numbers are part of the picture, not the whole story. Teams look at how he moves in position drills—his pedal, transitions, range from a two-high shell, and comfort in man coverage. They also watch how he tracks the ball and how quickly he processes. Even if his timed speed is average, his body control and confidence in drills matter just as much. Scouts want to see if the tape matches the testing, and with Scruggs, the tape shows a player who knows where to be and arrives under control.

Film Evaluation: Strengths

Processing, Eyes, and Anticipation

Scruggs plays like a seasoned traffic cop. His eyes are steady, and he processes route combinations quickly. When offenses run play-action, he does not panic and fly downhill too early. He stays patient, keeps his leverage, and breaks on the throw at the right time. Those habits limit explosive plays and force quarterbacks to make perfect throws. In zone coverage, he understands spacing and communicates switches smoothly.

Tackling Technique and Angles

One of Scruggs’ calling cards is consistent tackling. He keeps his pads low, brings his feet, and wraps to finish. The NFL values safeties who turn eight-yard gains into five-yard gains and prevent missed tackles from becoming touchdowns. Scruggs does that by taking smart pursuit angles and closing under control. He rarely lunges wildly or throws a shoulder at ball carriers. That self-discipline is teachable, but it often shows up in players who study film and respect their own technique.

Run Support and Box Work

When rolled into the box, Scruggs reads blocking schemes quickly. He recognizes pullers, outside zone tracks, and crack-replace responsibilities against condensed sets. He is not a linebacker, but he understands gap fits and does not get washed out easily. He also triggers quickly on perimeter screens and swing passes, limiting yards after the catch. Defenses can trust him to be the force player when corners need help on the edge.

Special Teams Value

Special teams are the entry point for many late-round picks and undrafted safeties. Scruggs offers real value there. He has the right temperament for kickoff coverage, punt coverage, and punt return blocking. He takes proper leverage to the ball, he does not overrun lanes, and he finds the returner in traffic. For coaches, that is gold: if a player can cover kicks, block cleanly, and avoid penalties, he can dress on Sundays while he develops on defense.

Intangibles and Communication

Not every defense has a vocal safety who unites the back end. Scruggs has done that before, and he can be that piece again. He will not need a long runway to learn calls, and he will help align teammates from the moment he feels comfortable with the playbook. Those intangibles shorten the adjustment period and build trust with coaches and veterans.

Film Evaluation: Areas for Improvement

Long Speed and Recovery

Scruggs’ long speed looks average on tape. Against vertical slot receivers or deep overs, he can be threatened if the route stems and play-action timing are clean. That does not mean he cannot cover deep, but he will be more effective in two-high shells or mixed coverage looks than as a pure center-field single-high safety who must erase sideline-to-sideline throws.

Man Coverage Versus Bigger Slots

Scruggs competes in the slot, especially against tight ends, but he can be challenged by twitchy slot receivers who sell two-way go routes. He needs consistent hand placement early and must stay square longer to avoid opening the gate too soon. In the NFL, offenses isolate safeties on option routes. Drilling footwork and improving patience at the break point will help him win more of those downs.

Ball Production Consistency

While Scruggs has recorded interceptions and pass breakups, he is more of a steady, assignment-sound safety than a high-variance ball hawk. That is not a bad thing, but adding more production on the ball—punch-outs, tipped passes turned into turnovers, and late-drive takeaways—will raise his profile and help him stick on a roster long term.

Handling NFL Route Combinations

Every defensive back faces a learning curve with pro-style route combinations and the speed of NFL quarterbacks. Scruggs will need reps to recognize how quickly quarterbacks move from read to read and how fast spacing changes on the back end. The good news is that his processing is already strong. With time, these adjustments are manageable.

How Teams Project Him in the NFL Draft

Scheme Fits That Maximize His Strengths

Scruggs best fits defenses that use two-high shells, quarters, match-zone concepts, and big-nickel packages. In those systems, his communication, tackling, and anticipation really shine. He can rotate late into the box, handle shallow zones, or carry tight ends up the seam while getting help over the top. Defensive coordinators who ask safeties to be smart problem solvers rather than pure erasers will appreciate Scruggs.

Year-One Role: Special Teams and Depth Safety

As a rookie, Scruggs projects as a four-phase special teamer and third or fourth safety. On defense, he can be the next man up at strong safety in sub-packages, and he can handle dime responsibilities that prioritize tackling and route recognition. If injuries hit, he can start in spot duty and keep the defense organized.

Two-to-Three Year Development Path

Over time, Scruggs can grow into a reliable third safety who plays 25 to 40 defensive snaps per game while staying key on special teams. With added polish in man coverage and deeper comfort with NFL speed, he can push for a bigger role in big-nickel looks. His leadership traits also make him a positive presence in a young secondary.

Draft Range and Market Value

Late Day 3 Selection or Priority Undrafted Free Agent

For a safety like Scruggs, the draft range often sits in late Day 3 or the undrafted free agent market. The difference between going in the seventh round and signing as a priority free agent can be razor thin. Special teams proof, medical evaluations, and pro day impressions often decide it. Teams looking for a dependable, assignment-sound safety with leadership traits will keep him high on their free-agent call list if he is not selected.

What Can Push Him Onto a 53-Man Roster

Three things can secure Scruggs’ roster spot: consistent special teams production in preseason, clean mental reps in practice (no busted coverages), and a couple of on-ball plays in August games. Coaches remember tackles inside the 20 on kickoffs, third-down stops, and heads-up plays like downing a punt at the 2-yard line. Those moments can lock in a role.

Stylistic Comparisons

Stylistically, Scruggs has echoes of players like Adrian Phillips or Marcus Epps—safeties who built careers with smart football, toughness, and special teams value before becoming trusted defensive contributors. He is not a one-to-one clone of those players, but the path is similar: win coaches’ trust, stack good weeks, and let opportunities come.

Roster Math: How a Depth Safety Sticks

Four-Phase Special Teams Checklist

A rookie safety must check boxes in all four special teams phases. For Scruggs, that means:
– Kickoff coverage: stay disciplined in lanes, beat blocks, finish tackles.
– Kickoff return: fit as a front-line blocker, climb with control, avoid penalties.
– Punt coverage: release clean, stack and shed, tackle in space without missing.
– Punt return: hold legal leverage in vice drills, avoid early hands to the face, and make smart peel-back decisions.

If he hits on three of the four phases, he becomes game-day active. If he hits all four, he becomes hard to cut.

Positional Flexibility on Defense

Scruggs strengthens his case by learning both safety spots and some nickel rules. On game day, teams often dress only eight or nine defensive backs. A player who can cover for an injured starter at strong safety, play dime in passing situations, and handle emergency nickel snaps is extremely valuable.

Preseason Performance Markers

Coaches track more than just tackles. They watch leverage, angles, communication volume, and penalty discipline. If Scruggs shows clean tape for three preseason games—no busted coverages, no special teams penalties, and two or three impact tackles—he will make a strong impression.

From Small Program to the NFL: Lessons and Pathways

Why Smaller-Program Safeties Succeed

Safeties from non-powerhouse schools succeed in the NFL when they bring clear strengths: reliable tackling, mental sharpness, and toughness. Scruggs checks those boxes. The transition is less about the logo on the helmet and more about whether a player fits a defined role. If the role is clear—special teams and rotational sub-package safety—then the path is realistic.

Case Studies to Consider

Many dependable NFL safeties were not first-round picks. They found niches, grew their responsibilities, and became core players. The key was consistency. Scruggs can follow that blueprint by showing he is always in the right place and can be trusted when the game is on the line.

Team Fits and Potential Landing Spots

Defenses That Value Smart, Physical Safeties

Several teams consistently value intelligent, tough safeties who contribute on special teams:
– Patriots: historically prize versatile DBs who communicate and tackle.
– Steelers: blend physicality with matchup zones; special teams-heavy roster spots.
– Colts: regularly add competitive, smart DBs who play multiple roles.
– 49ers: structure favors disciplined angles and sure tackling in split-safety shells.
– Falcons: seeking culture builders on defense with strong communication.

These are examples. The true fit depends on current depth charts, special teams needs, and coaching preferences during a given offseason.

Why Special Teams Coordinators Might Pound the Table

Special teams coordinators want dependable lane discipline and strong open-field tackling. Scruggs checks both, plus he understands leverage and angles. If a coordinator vouches for him in draft meetings or free-agent discussions, that can tip the room in his favor.

How He Wins in the Pre-Draft Process

Interviews and Whiteboard Sessions

For Scruggs, the interview is a strength. He can explain coverage rules, talk through route combinations, and outline his checklist versus different formations. He can also walk coaches through how he studies opponents and shares that information with teammates. Those conversations often matter more than a tenth of a second on the stopwatch.

Position Drills and Movement Skills

On the field, he should emphasize clean footwork, efficient transitions, and confident ball tracking. He should show he can flip his hips, carry verticals when needed, and close downhill under control. Doing each rep with polish helps scouts project him as game-ready depth.

Special Teams Workout Emphasis

Demonstrating vice technique, release mechanics, and coverage leverage in special teams drills will remind coaches why he belongs on a 90-man roster heading into training camp. That is his early ticket to meaningful reps.

Development Plan: Year 1 and Beyond

Technical Goals

– Improve man coverage against quick slots by focusing on patient feet and hand placement at the break point.
– Continue to refine tackling angles to cut off explosive YAC gains.
– Add counters versus bunch and stack releases to avoid getting picked in traffic.

Physical Goals

– Enhance long speed and recovery with targeted sprint mechanics, overspeed work, and hamstring strength.
– Maintain play weight while improving flexibility and hip mobility for smoother transitions.
– Build grip strength and punch timing to increase forced fumbles and ball disruptions.

Mental and Preparation Goals

– Expand route recognition with weekly film cutups of opponent third-down tendencies.
– Master special teams rules across all four phases to become a core unit player.
– Lead with energy in meetings and practice, helping set standards for younger players.

Metrics That Matter for Safety Prospects

Speed and Agility

The 10-yard split matters because it captures burst from a standstill, which is crucial for closing windows. Short shuttle and three-cone test change of direction and body control. Even if top-end speed is average, strong agility numbers can support roles in the slot or box.

Explosiveness

Vertical and broad jumps measure lower-body power. These correlate with closing burst and tackle power. A safety who can explode through contact helps finish plays at or behind the sticks.

Position Drills Over Pure Testing

For a player like Scruggs, clean position drills and consistent film matter more than one testing number. Coaches ask, can he line up a defense, take away quick game throws, and finish safely in space? If yes, he fits.

Common Questions About Javon Scruggs and the NFL Draft

Is Javon Scruggs a draftable prospect?

Yes, he is a legitimate late-Day 3 or priority free-agent prospect. His value comes from leadership, reliability, and special teams. Some teams may use a seventh-round pick on him; others may prefer to recruit him strongly after the draft. Both paths can lead to an NFL career.

What is his best position in the NFL?

He profiles best as a strong safety or split-safety in two-high shells, with the flexibility to drop into the box or play big nickel against tight ends. He can also handle dime roles on passing downs.

What will determine whether he gets drafted?

Clean medicals, strong interviews, and visible special teams value will be key. A strong pro day and positive feedback from special teams coordinators can push him into the draft late.

How early can he contribute?

He can contribute on special teams right away. On defense, he can spot start or rotate as he earns trust, especially in sub-packages that emphasize tackling and communication.

Why Javon Scruggs Makes Sense for NFL Teams

Raising the Room’s Floor

Every room needs players who make others better. Scruggs does that with communication, film study, and consistent practice habits. Those qualities help younger corners and safeties line up correctly and play fast.

Mitigating Risk on Game Day

Scruggs lowers defensive risk by making safe, correct decisions. He does not chase hero plays and create coverage busts. When a defense stops giving up cheap explosives, the entire unit looks sharper. Coaches value that quietly.

Affordable, Reliable Depth

Late-round or undrafted contracts are cost-effective. If that player gives you 15 to 20 core special teams snaps and solid emergency reps on defense, you have found strong value. Scruggs fits that model well.

What to Watch If He Joins Your Team

Early Camp Signs

Listen for coaches praising communication. Watch whether he is on every special teams unit in practice. If he is consistently first in line for drills and quick to respond to corrections, he is on the right path.

Preseason Moments

Look for clean, open-field tackles, smart leverage in coverage, and no penalties on special teams. One takeaway or a critical third-down stop can move him up the depth chart quickly.

Final Evaluation: Risk, Reward, and Projection

Risk Profile

The main risks are athletic ceiling and matchups against elite speed. He may not be a high takeaways producer early. He will need to keep polishing man coverage and continue to maximize his angles and anticipation.

Reward Profile

The reward is a reliable, assignment-sound safety who improves special teams and stabilizes sub-packages. Over time, he can become a trusted third safety who closes games because coaches trust his decision-making.

Overall Projection

Late Day 3 or priority UDFA with a clear path to a 53-man roster through special teams, communication, and tackling. In the right system, he can carve out a multi-year role and become a quietly valuable contributor.

Conclusion

Javon Scruggs may not dominate draft headlines, but he is exactly the kind of player who finds a way to stick in the NFL. His story shows resilience; his tape shows discipline, tackling, and football IQ; and his value shows up on special teams and in the meeting room. For teams searching for dependable depth at safety, a strong communicator, and a player who will do the little things right from day one, Scruggs stands out. The NFL Draft is about talent, but it is also about roles, trust, and fit. Scruggs brings all three in a package that coaches and teammates will appreciate—and that fans will recognize when he starts making smart, timely plays on Sundays.