Javon Bullard Scouting Report

By: Michael Higgins

(Image courtesy of Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

School: Georgia

Class: Junior

Position: SAF

HT: 5’11

WT: 195 lbs

Sideline Prospect Ranking: #83

Background: Javon Bullard is a Georgia safety that has provided unexpectedly steady play on the back end of the Georgia defense for a few seasons now. Bullard is from Milledgeville, Georgia, a homegrown prospect. He was a 3-star recruit out of Baldwin High School. At Baldwin, he was considered a cornerback but made the transition to safety while at Georgia. Bullard was a starter all four years at Baldwin and served as the Team Captain and MVP. Out of Baldwin, Bullard chose to play for Georgia over schools such as Georgia Tech and Tennessee.

College: As a freshman, Bullard was mainly a contributor on special teams, but saw action in all but one game. As a sophomore, Bullard started in 10 of the 14 games he appeared in. He was named the Defensive MVP of the 2023 National Championship Game. His 46 total stops were good for 5th most on the team. In one year as a defensive starter for the Bulldogs, he instantly became a mainstay. He became a defensive leader for a talented Georgia team. In 2023, Bullard was the general of that unit and led them to the SEC championship game.

Strengths: Javon Bullard is at his best when he is playing in that free safety role, patrolling the back end of the defense. Bullard is quick and athletic. He can react on a dime to get to the ball carrier, no matter where they are. Bullard is a ballhawk and can make splash plays. While he is most  comfortable in a coverage role, Bullard can lower his head and make a big hit closer to the line of scrimmage. Javon takes on the image of a Bulldog as he is willing to do the dirty work for his defense. Bullard reads the quarterback’s eyes well and can usually get to the football at the same time as the receiver.

Weaknesses: Javon struggles with tackling in the open field. He shows a lot of hesitancy when trying to make a solo tackle in the open field. He can be seen trying to do the side arm tackle attempt frequently. Bullard is clumsy in man coverage when he plays nickel. He can get turned around and beat in a variety of ways. His hips are stiff and he does not display a smooth transition from back pedal to sprint.

Conclusion: Javon Bullard has the resume to prove he can succeed, but many questions arise after looking back at the film. He will need to become better in man coverage or be able to be a true free safety and stay away from the box.

Scheme Fit: 3-4 Cover 3

Ideal Role: Free Safety

Best Team Fits: LAC, NO, JAX

Player Comparison: John Johnson III

Player Grade: 77.8