2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report - Ja'Kobe North

Defensive Back Scouting Report - Ja'Kobe North

2025 NFL DRAFTDB SCOUTING REPORT

Newt Westen

1/12/20252 min read

Ja'Kobe North

Position: Cornerback

College: Charleston Southern University

Height: 6' 1"

Weight: 195 lbs

Class: Graduate Student

Newt Westen

Ja'Kobe North, a 6’1”, 195-pound defensive back, is a rising prospect with a diverse collegiate background. After starting his career at the JUCO level with Kentucky Christian and transferring to DII Kentucky Wesleyan, he concluded his career at FCS Charleston Southern University. In 2024, he posted a solid NFL passer rating against (73.4) and allowed only 2 touchdowns while recording 1 interception and 10 pass breakups. His strong PFF coverage grade of 75.9 highlights his ability to perform in coverage, even stepping up with a notable performance against Florida State in his final game. His efforts in his final season were recognized by Phil Steele as North was named second team All-Big South/OVC

Strengths:
  • Solid Coverage Skills: Effective in both zone and man coverage schemes.

  • Versatile Player: Willing to line up in press coverage and adapt to various defensive looks.

  • Ideal Frame: Solid length and physicality, unafraid to deliver big hits.

  • Special Teams: Has been used on punt coverage during his collegiate career.

Weaknesses:
  • Penalties: Tends to be too handsy in coverage, leading to penalties that will be magnified at the next level.

  • Competition Level: Faced little FBS competition for most of his collegiate career.

  • Missed Tackles: Needs to improve tackling form, often seeking the big hit instead of wrapping up securely. Had a 18.4 missed tackle rate in 2024.

  • Press Technique: Press coverage technique needs refinement, as inconsistent hand usage allows receivers to slip past him.

Summary:

North’s size, physicality, and coverage ability make him an intriguing developmental prospect. His versatility and competitive spirit should earn him a chance to compete as a priority free agent. He will need to show the ability to improve his technique technique and consistency. Teams will value his length, willingness to adapt to multiple coverage schemes, and special teams experience.

Grade: Priority UDFA

Ja'Kobe North (24) celebrates a forced incompletion against Southeastern Missouri University.