ZakeeWheatley

Wheatley is a tall, aggressive defender who attacks downhill as a run defender and flashes anticipation skills and closing speed in coverage. A two-year starter for the Nittany Lions, he’s a versatile defender with experience lining up deep, in the box, and over the slot. He shows anticipation skills in coverage, reading the quarterback’s eyes to break on the ball before it’s released. He has good ball skills in coverage, with six interceptions, six pass breakups, and two forced fumbles in his career. He smothers tight ends in man coverage, and his length helps him make up cushion quickly in a trailing position. He gave up just one touchdown in coverage last year, per PFF. He flies downhill and shows no hesitation when triggering against the run. He’s savvy at avoiding and getting off blocks so he can make the play in the run game, and he can pack some punch as a hitter when he comes in low and leads with his shoulder. He brings closing speed to finish when he blitzes, and he seems to surprise quarterbacks with how quickly he arrives at the ball. 

Wheatley has a thin frame and lacks bulk for the position. He can get jostled around in the box, and he comes in too high at times when tackling, leading him to take the brunt of the collision. He’s aggressive and comes in too hot at times when dropping into the box. He needs to be more consistent staying balanced and making the tackle rather than trying to bring a big hit. He doesn’t always finish tackles, throwing his arm at legs or trying to drag ballcarriers down.