LSU's A.J. Haulcy is one of the top safety prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, with a complete skill set that allows him to make big plays against both the run and pass. That versatility, along with an NFL-ready frame and a knack for making big plays, should make him a lock to come off the board at some point on Day 2.
Here's everything NFL fans need to know about Haulcy heading into this year's draft:
A.J. Haulcy's Vitals
Height: 6-0
Weight: 222
Age: 22
A.J. Haulcy's Strengths
Typically with safety prospects, you typically have to choose between size/physicality or speed/athleticism. That's not the case with Haulcy, who has rare movement skills for a 220-pounder, but still packs all the punch you'd expect from a bigger player at the position. He can live in the box with his power-packed frame, toughness and tackling ability, but his fluid hips, light feet, and short-area burst give him impressive range and playmaking ability. He's got a sharp mind and quick eyes to find where the ball is going before it gets there, leading to a ton of splash plays and takeaway opportunities. He has the awareness to be effective in zone coverage, and the athleticism to handle man responsibilities against backs and tight ends.
A.J. Haulcy's Weaknesses
If asked to lock up in man coverage against slot targets, speedy receivers can stack him and win vertically, and sharp route-runners can stress his ability to remain in phase, forcing him to make contact in ways NFL officials won't allow. His average height and length can leave Haulcy at a disadvantage in contested-catch situations against bigger pass-catchers with longer wingspans that can pluck the ball away over his head. He arrives at the ball carrier with burst and violence, but his wrap-up technique as a tackler needs to improve.
Final Analysis
Haulcy's combination of size, athleticism and physicality gives him a unique skill set, and checks a series of boxes no other safety in this class can claim. He still has some room to grow as a tackler, and he'll need to keep learning how to mitigate some of his measurable shortcomings with better technique, but the building blocks are in place for a quality starter with some alignment versatility.
2026 NFL Draft Projection: Day 2 (2nd/3rd Round)
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