Jermari Harris: A Comprehensive Scouting Report for the Tennessee Titans

As the Tennessee Titans continue to refine their defensive backfield, the addition of Jermari Harris, a cornerback from Iowa, presents an intriguing opportunity. Harris, known for his exceptional instincts and ball skills, offers a unique skill set that aligns well with the Titans’ defensive philosophy.

Player Profile

• Name: Jermari Harris
• Position: Cornerback
• Height: 6’0″
• Weight: 192 lbs
• College: University of Iowa
• NFL Draft Status: Undrafted Free Agent
• Pro Comparison: Bryce Hall

Strengths

1. Exceptional Zone Coverage Instincts

Harris excels in zone coverage, demonstrating a keen ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and anticipate routes. His awareness allows him to jump passing lanes, resulting in multiple interceptions and pass breakups during his collegiate career. This skill is particularly valuable in defensive schemes that emphasize pattern-matching and zone principles.

2. Physicality and Tackling Ability

In the run game, Harris is a willing and aggressive tackler. He approaches ball carriers with intensity, delivering impactful hits. His physicality extends to his press coverage, where he uses his length and strength to disrupt receivers’ releases, maintaining leverage and positioning.

3. Ball Skills and Timing

Harris possesses excellent ball skills, demonstrating the ability to track and attack the ball in the air. He times his swipes and interceptions effectively, often catching the ball away from his body, which enhances his ability to secure turnovers.

4. Discipline and Technique

Throughout his collegiate career, Harris displayed remarkable discipline, accumulating only two penalties. His technique in press coverage is refined, using a one-arm stab to control receivers without drawing flags. This disciplined approach is a testament to his coaching and understanding of the game.

Areas for Improvement

1. Speed and Recovery

While Harris is quick in short areas, he lacks elite top-end speed. This limitation can be a concern when facing faster receivers, particularly on deep routes. Additionally, his recovery speed may hinder his ability to make up ground if beaten early in the route.

2. Tackling Consistency

Although Harris is a physical tackler, his consistency in the open field is a concern. He sometimes relies on arm tackles and can struggle to break down and secure wrap tackles. Improving his tackling technique and consistency will be crucial at the next level.

3. Transition and Agility

Harris exhibits some stiffness when transitioning out of his backpedal. An extra gather step when flipping his hips can create separation windows on quick-breaking routes. Enhancing his fluidity and agility will help him stay in phase with receivers, especially on sharp cuts.

4. Durability Concerns

Harris has a history of multiple surgeries, raising questions about his long-term durability. While he has shown resilience in returning to form, teams will need to assess his medical history to determine any potential risks.

Fit with the Tennessee Titans

The Titans’ defensive scheme, which emphasizes zone principles and pattern-matching, aligns well with Harris’s strengths. His ability to read the quarterback and anticipate routes makes him a valuable asset in such a system. Additionally, his physicality and tackling ability in the run game complement the Titans’ aggressive defensive philosophy.

While Harris may not possess elite speed, his discipline, technique, and ball skills can contribute to the Titans’ secondary. His potential to develop into a reliable zone cornerback makes him a promising addition to the team.

Jermari Harris offers a unique blend of instincts, physicality, and technique that can enhance the Tennessee Titans’ defensive backfield. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in speed and tackling consistency, his strengths provide a solid foundation for development. With the right coaching and opportunities, Harris has the potential to contribute significantly to the Titans’ defense.

As the Titans continue to build their roster, Harris represents a promising prospect who can add depth and versatility to their secondary. His addition could be a strategic move to strengthen the team’s defense and address future needs in the defensive backfield.