6’2” – 283 lbs. – 4.91
Appeared in four games as a redshirt freshman, then rotated in over all thirteen games in each of the following two seasons, posting 21-4.5-4.5 as a sophomore and 18-4.5-4.0 as a junior. Stepped into the starting lineup and ended up with 42-11.5-6.0. Measured in two inches shorter and seven pounds heavier than his listed size; lack of ideal height is counterbalanced by long 34” arms. Takes snaps from different techniques, moving back and forth between the left and right sides of the line and often rushing out of a two-point stance. Plays the game with a desirable level of intensity and aggression. Explosive athlete who fires out low and gets up to his top speed quickly; can blow up some rushing attempts in the backfield. Demonstrates a very good motor in pursuit. Keeps his pad level low and does a good job of extending his arms and anchoring when run at. Very good functional strength with plenty of power in his hands to jolt opposing linemen. However, would like to see him play with more discipline on the edge; in his eagerness to get involved, will sometimes be sucked in and end up allowing the runner to break containment. As a pass-rusher, predominantly relies on his ability to fire out with explosiveness and a low pad level and convert speed to power, which he used to great effect. However, regularly mixes up his approach to keep opponents off-balance. Good technician who uses his hands well to slip past opposing linemen, mostly with a deadly swipe move. Bends a pretty good arc to the passer, although he’s more likely to try and use his shoulders to slip past opposing tackles than he is to dip his shoulder and win with a speed rush. Also effective on stunts/twists, allowing him to find open lanes to the passer. Has some occasional balance issues/awkward movements which crop up when he’s redirecting. Did not perform well at the Combine, testing poorly in the 40, cone, vertical, and broad jumps, developments which were inconsistent with what he shows on tape but are still likely to affect his stock. Looks like a beast on tape, using his aggression, length, hands, power, and explosiveness to work his way to the ball. Ultimate draft stock will come down to how teams weigh what he did on game day against very pedestrian testing numbers which, statistically speaking, suggest he may lack pro athleticism. Played so well in 2018 that he should be a mid-round pick at the latest.
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