NCAA Scouting - Player Profile:
Evander 'Ziggy' Hood, DT, Missouri by Jody Jamieson
12/2/2009
Missouri have a lot of interesting prospects declaring for the 2009 Draft. Chase Daniel's stock plummeted after a disappointing 2008, while Jeremy Maclin's continued to grow as the Tigers figured out getting the ball to Maclin as much as possible was an easy way to score a lot of points. Ziggy Hood is an interesting prospect with a lot of upside but a lot of doubts.
At the Senior Bowl, the most impressive thing about Hood is practice was how quickly he fitted into the Bengals scheme. He looked impressive in drills, and one highlight in particular was blowing up Cal's Alex Mack with a superb spin move. The Bengals coaching staff loved his work ethic and desire, and if he falls into the third round, I wouldn't be at all surprised to see Cincinnati take him at the start of Day 2. But Hood's Senior Bowl week was so impressive, it may be unlikely to see him still on the board when Day 2 begins. B.J. Raji was still the talk of Mobile among the defensive tackle prospects, but Hood made a nice case for a potential late first round pick. While it's still unlikely Ziggy will be taken in Round 1, there are teams picking between #33 and #40 at the top of the second round who will be very interested in a defensive tackle, and Hood may be just what they're looking for. Providing he has a good combine, he can solidify himself as a certain Day 1 pick.
What we like about Hood
Has an excellent burst off the line of scrimmage and is extremely athletic for a DT. Will more than likely be drafted as a 4-3 DT, but could find a place for himself at DE in a 3-4. Had impressive numbers in college despite drawing a lot of double teams. Reads the play well and breaks quickly to the ball carrier. Has excellent swim and spin moves. He has a non stop motor and is tough to wear down. Excellent competitor who refuses to lose and is a leader in the huddle. Few worries about durability.
Question marks about Hood
Many wonder how much improvement Hood has left in him and the speculation is he has pretty much reached his ceiling. He can be dominated by bigger linemen. Unlikely to be able to put on weight and maintain his effectiveness. He isn't the best pass rusher, and is likely to be on the sideline on obvious passing downs. Needs to get stronger to be a true difference maker in the NFL.
Highlight of his college career
Hood played a big part in Missouri's emergence in 2007. In one of the best years in school history, Hood was one of many emerging stars who helped the Tigers to a 10-2 record and a 38-7 win in the Cotton Bowl against Arkansas.
Other snippets
Hood stands 6'3" tall and weighed in at 298 lbs at the Senior Bowl.
In high school, he played as a part time tight end, and in one game, had two 97 yard touchdown receptions.
Would be a good fit in Indianapolis, Denver or Tampa Bay.
NCAA Scouting - Player Profile:
At the Senior Bowl, the most impressive thing about Hood is practice was how quickly he fitted into the Bengals scheme. He looked impressive in drills, and one highlight in particular was blowing up Cal's Alex Mack with a superb spin move. The Bengals coaching staff loved his work ethic and desire, and if he falls into the third round, I wouldn't be at all surprised to see Cincinnati take him at the start of Day 2. But Hood's Senior Bowl week was so impressive, it may be unlikely to see him still on the board when Day 2 begins. B.J. Raji was still the talk of Mobile among the defensive tackle prospects, but Hood made a nice case for a potential late first round pick. While it's still unlikely Ziggy will be taken in Round 1, there are teams picking between #33 and #40 at the top of the second round who will be very interested in a defensive tackle, and Hood may be just what they're looking for. Providing he has a good combine, he can solidify himself as a certain Day 1 pick.