- Height: 5-11
- Weight: 195
- School: South Dakota
- Class: Senior
| PRO | CON |
|---|---|
| Harden is a pest in the secondary with his ability to read the quarterback’s instincts early and react accordingly. In the run game, Harden is one of the better open-field tacklers in the defensive back group despite his sub-6-foot stature. | If he finds a home at the safety position, his arm length may limit him against lengthier pass-catchers, such as tight ends. His average speed (4.5 40-yard dash) could see him be a step late against slot weapons, despite a physical punch off the line. |
OVERVIEW: Despite limited experience going into his senior season, Harden emerged as one of the top defensive backs at the FCS level in 2023 with sticky coverage and elite open-field tackling at the cornerback position. While some teams will see him as a better fit at nickel, don't sleep on his potential to play deeper in the defensive backfield at safety with his ability to identify in zone coverage as well as his potential to cover offensive weapons with different skill sets. Harden finished his career as an FCS First-Team All-American in 2023.
COMPARISON: Kareem Jackson