The selection of Charles Mitchell in Round 6 continued the Falcons ongoing trend of drafting at least one player from the Southeastern Conference. He addresses the need for safety depth with James Sanders departure to Arizona, and provides another player with a great past of leadership skills.
After being selected to the Freshman All-SEC team as a true freshman, Mitchell continued to improve each year, ultimately working his way into a leadership role.
“Me, I try to lead by example. I always try to lead vocally as well, but most of my leadership came from example; guys seeing how I act and the way I handle business on the field and off the field, in the classroom, things like that. So that’s where my leadership role came into play,” said Mitchell.
As a senior he was a team captain and finished second on Mississippi State’s defense with 95 tackles.
“I mean, mostly it comes from film study, being prepared for the game, knowing your opponent. So that’s really where all that comes from. I feel like I can get from point A to point B as quick as anyone,” said Mitchell when asked about his development as a safety. “So, as far as me getting around and getting to spots back there, it just really, like I said, film study and knowing your opponent.”
When asked what type of safety he is, Mitchell said, “I’m a pretty physical guy. I pride myself on making tackles and I always try to be around the ball. Like I said, protect the defense. The main thing about me is to try to be real physical and aggressive when I play.”
Mitchell provides depth, but also a guy that can be plugged into Mike Nolan’s Big Nickel package. Not a bad choice for pick No. 192.
