Panthers 2022 draft scouting report: Tariq Woolen’s exciting traits
By Dean Jones
Tariq Woolen scouting report
- Height: 6-foot-4
- Weight: 205 pounds
- Arms: 33.625 inches
- 40-yard dash: 4.26 seconds
- 2021 PFF Grade: 60.4
While the film college players produce on the field is probably the biggest deciding factor about where they are drafted, there is a real chance to enhance their stock during the testing processes at the NFL Scouting Combine and pro days. Something Tariq Woolen has done in no uncertain terms.
Woolen is an athletic freak at 6-foot-4 who blew everyone away with a 40-yard dash time of 4.26 seconds at the combine. This was an absolutely extraordinary display of explosiveness that is sure to have made teams across the league sit up and take notice.
From a size and speed standpoint, there is plenty to like about Woolen. His production in 2021 wasn’t considered stellar by any stretch, but the traits to make substantial strides in the NFL with better coaching mean he could be a hot commodity when it’s all said and done.
The former UTSA star’s 9.71 Relative Athletic Score would have been a 10 had Woolen demonstrated a little more in the way of strength. On the production side of things, the cornerback is fluid in his movements and has the natural reaction to close on the football quickly when it’s in his vicinity.
Woolen’s large radius and ability to take the ball at its highest point should also serve him well in the pros. His technique might be a little raw, but it’s worth remembering he’s still learning the position after transitioning from a wide receiver in college.
The prospect can become over-aggressive at times – both in coverage and against the run. This leads to blown assignments and missed tackles that need to be eradicated against NFL-caliber players that will punish every mistake.