Craig Tutt

Physical Profile

Estimated at just under 6-feet and weighing around 180-190 pounds, Tutt possesses a well-rounded athletic build for the safety position. While not possessing elite size, his frame is functional and he plays with a physical edge. His most translatable physical traits are his decisiveness as a mover, fluid change of direction, and evident long speed, highlighted by his 24.5 yards per kickoff return average.

Play Style

Tutt plays with a relentless and aggressive style. On defense, he is a see-ball, get-ball defender who flashes downhill to make tackles and is comfortable matching up with receivers in space. On offense and in the return game, he is a decisive runner with the vision and speed to create explosive plays. His film consistently shows a tough, competitive player who makes his presence felt in all facets of the game.

Strengths

• **Three-Phase Playmaker:** Tutt's impact is felt on defense, offense, and special teams. He amassed nearly 2,000 all-purpose yards as a junior and had a record-tying seven-touchdown performance in a state championship game, showcasing his elite playmaking ability whenever he has the ball.
• **Defensive Instincts & Versatility:** Projects best as a safety where he is an instinctual and decisive defender. He demonstrates the ability to excel in man-to-man coverage out of the slot and is a willing, physical presence in run support. His experience on offense translates to excellent ball skills on the back end.
• **Proven Winner & Big-Game Performer:** A multiple-time state champion and two-time state championship game MVP at a powerhouse Tennessee program. He has consistently produced at the highest level against top competition, including a four-touchdown performance in a state semifinal.

Areas to Improve

• **Size/Bulk:** While he plays with physicality, adding mass to his 180-pound frame will be necessary to consistently handle the rigors of playing safety in the SEC, particularly in run support against larger backs and tight ends.
• **Positional Refinement:** As a player who has excelled at multiple positions, he will benefit from focusing solely on the safety position at the collegiate level to hone his technique in coverage, refine his footwork, and master the nuances of a complex defensive scheme.

College Projection

Tutt projects as a high-level impact starter at the Power Four level. Given his extensive experience and proven playmaking ability, he has the potential to contribute early on special teams and in sub-packages. He has the upside to develop into an all-conference caliber safety and a key leader for the Ole Miss defense by his second or third year on campus.

NFL Outlook

As a consensus four-star prospect with a high composite rating (0.9178) and a profile as a versatile, three-phase playmaker from a top high school program, Tutt possesses clear NFL upside. His instincts, athleticism, and proven production in big games are all traits that translate to the next level. If he continues to develop his frame and refine his technique at the safety position, he projects as a future mid-round NFL Draft selection with the potential to rise higher.

Best Fit

Tutt is an excellent fit for a defensive scheme that values versatility and allows its safeties to be interchangeable, playing both in deep coverage and close to the line of scrimmage. His skill set is maximized in a system that will utilize his man coverage abilities against slot receivers and tight ends while also allowing him to be an active participant in run support. His immediate value on special teams makes him a fit for any program looking for an instant-impact player.