Summary

Ronnie Hickman was undrafted in 2023 out of Ohio State. Hickman is a promising young defensive back whose mix of athleticism, versatility, and physical tools give him the potential to carve out a meaningful role in the NFL. His ability to move in space, support the run, and play multiple alignments adds to his value.

However, his profile is tempered by important developmental areas — notably in tackling consistency, coverage technique (especially against elite receivers), and position‑specific instincts that separate starters from backups. In many ways, his floor is solid as a rotational safety or nickel/slot defender, while his ceiling could be a full‑time starter if the aforementioned issues are addressed.

Strengths

• Athleticism & range: Hickman showcases excellent straight‑line speed and fluid hips for a safety, enabling him to cover ground sideline‑to‑sideline and match up well in space. NFL Draft Buzz

• Run‑support willingness & downhill burst: He displays a physical willingness to come down into the box, provide support against the run, and make plays at the line of scrimmage. Last Word On Sports

• Versatility in alignment: His usage at Ohio State included playing deep, in the box, and in the slot/strong safety role, giving him value as a multi‑role defender. PFSN

• Size & physical frame for role: At ~203 lbs and with adequate height, he has the physical frame to handle bigger receivers/TEs in the slot or strong safety spots. NFL Draft Buzz

Weaknesses

• Tackling/finishing issues in space: Hickman has been flagged for missed tackles, especially when he’s required to wrap up in open space or maintain balance after initial contact. CBS Sports

• Coverage technique and ball skills inconsistencies: While he has the physical tools, some scouts note that his awareness in coverage, ability to consistently play the ball, and anticipation in man/press coverage lag behind his physical traits. Bleacher Report

• Recovery speed / deep coverage agility: Although his speed is good, his top‑end recovery in deep or bending routes and his change‑of‑direction in tight space are sometimes described as average relative to elite‑level safeties. CBS Sports

• Projection risk / role clarity: There is some question as to whether Hickman is best suited as a full‑time free safety or more of a hybrid/box safety given his strengths and limitations. His best fit may depend heavily on scheme. PFSN

Fit & Outlook

• Fit:

• Best suited to defensive schemes that use sub‑packages frequently and value hybrid safeties who can play in the box, slot, or strong safety alignment.

• Ideal for a team that can ease him into the role, leverage his run support and range early, and give him time to refine coverage responsibilities.

• Less ideal for schemes that require a safety to be locked in man‑coverage on the boundary every down or rely heavily on deep boundary duty without rotation/help.

• Outlook:

• Short‑Term (Year 1): Expect Hickman to contribute on special teams, take rotational snaps at safety/slot, and gradually increase his defensive role as he gains experience.

• Medium‑Term (Years 2‑3): If he improves tackling, coverage technique, and shows reliability, he has the potential to become a starting‑level safety/slot hybrid.