Malik Gant Is a Tackling Machine

Malik Gant, S
School: Marshall | Conference: Conference USA
College Experience: RS Junior | Age: 21
Height / Weight: 6-0 / 209 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 5th - 6th Round
NFL Comparison: Derrick Kindred

College Statistics

Player Overview

A native of Washington, DC and graduate of Woodson High School, Malik Gant was a walk-on at Marshall. By his red-shirt sophomore season, he had been offered a scholarship and he subsequently set the world on fire, accumulating 100 tackles, 6.5 for a loss, five pass break ups, and second team All-Conference USA honors. During his red-shirt junior season, he was even better, collecting 95 tackles, 9 for a loss, 2 interceptions, and 8 pass break ups. His stellar performance earned him Marshall’s team MVP award and first team All-Conference USA honors. Gant projects as a strong safety with special teams capacity, but is less adept in deep coverage.

Strengths

• Tackling machine.
• Plays with intensity.
• Good at pursuing with angles.
• Hard hitting box safety.
• Could be a special teams stud.

Weaknesses

• Limited in man coverage.
• Such a hard hitter, there are concerns about durability.
• Average range over the top.
• Played against lesser competition.

Let’s see his work

How He Would Fit On The Redskins

Having just signed Landon Collins to a big money, 6-year deal, the Redskins’ need for another box safety is fairly limited. However, Gant could provide safety depth, filling in on sub packages to cover tight ends or slot receivers, as well as serve as a valued special teams contributor. Described as a “heat seeking missle,” his tackling ability and high motor would be a welcome addition on returns. Realistically, a player like Gant would probably be training camp competition for Troy Apke and Deshazor Everett.