Elam is a high-level, lengthy, press-man DB who projects as an outside corner that excels in man-to-man scenarios. He blends good speed with quick hips allowing him to efficiently recover if he gets beat off the line of scrimmage.

As a zone defender, Elam is solid, and his skill set translates to the NFL. He excels in off coverage zone situations where he can keep eyes on the QB. Elam will attack the football at the catch point, where he uses his elite ball skills to make plays.

Elam is a physical player that can be an asset and a liability due to his aggressiveness. As a tackler, he needs to improve; he can take bad angles at times, allowing the ball carrier to make a play. He can also lose discipline in coverage at times allowing receivers to gain leverage or space in the deeper areas of the field.

Overall, he is a versatile player who can play in both man or zone situations. He can body a physical receiver, and if he can improve his tackling, he has what it takes to be an elite NFL DB.