6’5″ – 291 lbs. – 4.98
Redshirted as a true freshman, then started a total of three of twenty-five games played over the following two seasons. Became a starter this past season and had a productive year before declaring for the draft. Projects as a scheme-versatile defensive lineman; plays defensive tackle for the Gators, but frame should allow him to play five-technique in an odd front as well, or perhaps as a big defensive end on a four-man line. Well-built player with good size and length; may be asked to gain some additional bulk at the next level. One of the most aggressive and athletic defensive linemen in this year’s draft class. Comes out of his stance low and with explosiveness; effective penetrator who works a sudden swim move into his game. Not a finesse player; is also powerful enough to create some push with his bull-rush, with impressive leg drive. Consequently, draws a lot of extra attention from opposing blockers, and flashes the ability to split double teams. Good closing burst to finish his rushes. A little bit reliant on his initial move; can get stuck to blocks and would benefit from developing additional counters. Despite his height and length, has only batted one pass in his career. Capable of blowing up some rushing attempts in the backfield, but will also take himself out of some plays by getting too aggressive, so some teams may like him to play with more patience in the run game. Instincts can be a little bit raw; takes himself out of too many plays. However, has the length and lower-body strength to potentially develop into a two-gap, read-and-react player. Length and grip also give him an impressive tackling radius. Very fast, agile defender in pursuit; runs line a defensive end. Motor in pursuit can be a little bit inconsistent but flashes the ability to chase plays to the sidelines and down the field.Comes out of school with just one year of starting experience, but what he put on tape this season should make him a sought-after commodity. Explosiveness, aggressiveness, and athleticism are traits which could make him into a disruptive starter at the next level, and has the type of frame that should allow him to find a role in any type of defensive scheme.
DRAFTEXAMINER 