5’11” – 241 lbs. – 4.84
Started five games at inside linebacker as a true freshman, then spent the next three seasons largely sidelined due to injury concerns. Missed 2012 with a pectoral injury, 2014 with a chest injury, and half of 2013 with a back injury. Started at defensive end this past season and had a highly productive season. Very undersized pass rusher in terms of his height and weight, although his arm (32.75”) and hand (10”) measurements were impressive at the Combine. Lines up on both ends of the defensive line, often in a wider technique. Team captain. High-energy player who’s at his best when he’s able to pin his ears back and get after the passer. Predominantly relies on his explosiveness off the snap to challenge the edge with speed, exhibiting the ability to dip his shoulder and bend back to the quarterback when he has a step on his opponent; works in a lot of rip moves. Has a great first step which allows him to blow past slower offensive tackles. Creative, with the ability to vary his rush moves and mix in counters to generate pressure. Uses a spin effectively to get back inside when his original move is unsuccessful, and flashes the ability to convert speed to power despite his lack of size. Some ability to skinny through gaps as an inside rusher, but predominantly challenges the edge. Good closing burst to finish his rushes with sacks. Uses his lack of size to his advantage, getting leverage. Plays with a tough temperament despite his undersized frame. Could be penalized because his Combine workouts didn’t confirm the explosiveness he shows on tape. Might not be as much of an asset as a run defender. Flashes the ability to knife through gaps and disrupt plays, and can make tackles in backside pursuit over a limited range. Length gives him a solid tackling radius. Always in attack mode, which leaves some big gaps open for opposing ballcarriers. Looks fast when getting upfield but a little bit stiff when he’s asked to play in space. Medical concerns are very concerning, especially for a player with his size. A much better player than his measurable would indicate, and who offers the explosiveness off the snap, repertoire of moves and counters, and closing burst to pressure passers at the next level. Plays like a second-day pick, but lack of size and extensive medical history will likely push him to the third day.
DRAFTEXAMINER 