6’4” – 266 lbs. – 4.65
Has been a productive starter over the past three seasons. Has solid height and adequate bulk for the position, although his arms measured somewhat shorter than is desirable (32”); gained over ten pounds between the Shrine Game and the Combine and proved he could handle the extra weight during athletic testing. Played right defensive end for the Owls, but would also stand up at times and function as an off-the-line linebacker when the team worked with three down linemen, often as more of a quarterback spy. Relies more on varying his rushes and using his hands to keep opposing tackles from locking onto his frame; impressive hand use. Has some quickness off the line of scrimmage to challenge opposing offensive tackles with inside moves. Inconsistent get-off. Not really an explosive or flexible edge rusher; has a little bit of bend but probably won’t be much of a threat to blow past tackles off the snap or dip his shoulder and get into the backfield with a tight arc. Gets too much depth and is steered wide of the pocket too frequently. Doesn’t create with his bull-rush. As a spy, is able to close on passers when he’s given a clear path. Has a solid anchor in the run game for a player with his size, getting what extension he can and scraping down the line to defend outside attempts; can hold his ground pretty well, but doesn’t walk opposing linemen back to reset the line of scrimmage. Can threaten to knife through gaps and disrupt plays in the backfield. Doesn’t inadvertently open too many gaps by running himself out of position or giving up backside contain; pretty disciplined. Top-end speed is adequate to pursue screens and other plays near the boundaries; gives good effort to get to the play but isn’t usually the first player to arrive. Has some experience spying in space which should serve him well if asked to transition to outside linebacker. Also has a background as an effective kick-blocker and should be able to contribute on special-teams units. Looks like more of a reserve/rotational pass-rusher who could potentially play either defensive end or rush linebacker; has a good level of intensity and is able to vary his rushes and use his hands, but may lack the power and bend to be a dangerous rusher at the next level.
DRAFTEXAMINER 