Haruki Nakamura

Classic over-achieving blue collar free safety who simply makes too many plays to not get a shot at the next level. While Nakamura lacks the elite straight-line speed of some of the other higher profile athletes at the position, he plays with instincts, physicality and an ability to step up his level against top competition. Nakamura's versatility as a return specialist just adds to his value.

positives

Tight skinned, with a well defined physique. ... Instinctive defender. ... Always around the ball. ... Quick to come up in run support. ... Reliable open-field tackler who isn't afraid to take on blocks to get to the ballcarrier. ... May lack size usually associated with big hitters, but flashes some explosiveness, forcing three fumbles in 2007. ... Better overall athlete than he's given credit for. ... Baits the quarterback and competes for the ball. ... Good toughness. ... Played through a stress fracture in his right leg throughout much of the 2006 season. ... Team's leading punt returner.

negatives

Better football player than athlete. ... Marginal timed speed and lacks the hip-turn teams prefer at the position. ... Reliable hands as a punt returner and will take a hit to save his team yardage, but lacks burst to break into the open field. ... Longest punt return of his career was for only 24 yards... Standout collegiate player who may simply lack the athleticism required for the NFL.

Earned first team all-county and all-region honors and was a second team all-state selection as a senior at Lakewood St. Edward High, under the coaching of John Gibbons

two-way performer as a wide receiver and defensive back who excelled as a kick and punt return specialist

led team in receptions with 39 for 490 yards in 2003

averaged 25 yards per kick return and 10 yards per punt return

made five interceptions and averaged 10 tackles per game on defense

tied a school record with a 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown

set a school single game record with 12 catches for over 140 yards

team captain

helped school to a runner-up finish in the Ohio Division I playoffs

member of high school's academic honor roll.

Haruki Nakamura: Born April 18, 1986

son of Karen Nakamura and the late-Ryozo Nakamura

brother Yoshi wrestled in the US Olympic Trials

sister was a national champion in judo.