6’2” – 297 lbs. – 5.10e
Redshirted, then worked into the defensive line rotation the following year before stepping into a starting role in 2015, where he remained for two seasons before declaring for the draft. Has a very solid build for a defensive lineman, with great bulk, long arms, and thick, even weight distribution; however, may be a little bit shorter than teams want their five-technique ends to be. Usually plays left defensive tackle in the Gators’ four-man defensive front, and left end if they work out of a three-man line, but will play on the right side of both formations on an occasional basis. Powerful and physical. Lower-body strength allows him to anchor against power at the line. Gets good extension with his arms while two-gapping to lock out opposing linemen. Has active and strong enough hands to shed blocks and chase the ball. Comes out of his snap low and can knife into the backfield against zone blocking schemes; short-area quickness is more impressive than his overall movement skills. Can scrape toward the play side, but seems to have trouble making tackles while engaged. Instincts need some work; can be sealed out of holes by guessing wrong at the snap, and struggles to locate the ball when engaged. Gives decent effort in pursuit but isn’t particularly fast or rangy. Falls off of more tackle attempts than usual. Not really a consistent pass-rusher, but has an adequate first step, is able to vary his rushes (using swim, rip, or spin moves), and uses his hands to make opponents work. More of a penetrator than a bull-rusher. Looks disruptive at times, but will disappear for stretches. Can occasionally draw a double-team block in the passing game. Will sometimes be schemed open on stunts, but lacks the speed and closing burst to seriously threaten for sacks; upside as a pro is probably as a pressure-generator rather than a finisher. Often ends up standing around the line in hopes of batting down passes. Offers a powerful, very thick frame and two years of SEC starting experience but wasn’t really a consistent factor in games and might end up being limited to a two-down, run-stopping role at the pro level. Best fit may be as a two-gap defensive end in an odd front.
Games watched: Alabama (’16), Florida St. (’16), Vanderbilt (’16)
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