6’5″ – 250 lbs. – 4.50
Started five of thirteen games played as a freshman, then two of thirteen the next season. Was more of a regular starter over the past two seasons. Very tall, long-limbed rush linebacker who will probably need to add some bulk when he gets to the next level. In addition to playing out of a two-point stance on the edge, also takes some snaps as more of a traditional defensive end, and some as more of an off-the-line linebacker. Functions better in Mel Tucker’s two-gap run fits than his lack of bulk would suggest. Uses his length well, getting extension with his arms to play off of blocks in the run game and exhibiting a wide tackling radius. Exhibits good instincts to flow in the play direction, with the discipline to maintain backside contain when the play’s going the other way. Does a good job of stacking and shedding blockers with suddenness and active hand use. Secure tackler with a pretty physical on-field temperament. Can be a little bit slow to react to the ball being snapped, but has impressive movement skills once he gets going. Has the flexibility and balance to dip his shoulder and bend around the edge in a smooth arc to the passer. Fast in a straight line, with good closing burst to the quarterback; can be dangerous when running a stunt or twist to give him a clear lane to the passer. Good instincts to go for the strip sack when he’s able to do so; forced seven fumbles over the past three seasons. Appears to get his hands up but batted down just one career pass. More of a finesse rusher at this point who may struggle to convert speed to power against pro offensive tackles. Doesn’t really have the type of consistent production that his physical and athletic gifts would suggest. Takes some snaps off the line and looks fluid in his movements over a limited sample size; good diagnostic ability when defending the screen game. Capable of carrying running backs into the flats. The latest tall, long, athletic edge rusher from the program which produced 2016 top-ten pick Leonard Floyd; it’s easy to see a resemblance between the two players, and hard to imagine a player with these types of physical and athletic gifts making it out of the draft’s second day, although some teams may want him to add additional bulk before giving him a regular role.
DRAFTEXAMINER 