6’2” – 230 lbs.
Background:
Rotated onto the field in each of his first three seasons with Georgia, being listed at 218 pounds and picking up a combined 41-7.5-6.5 over those three seasons. Rotated in heavily this past year, finishing third on the team in tackles and compiling a line of 67-7.5-5.5.
Positives:
Was very productive for essentially a rotational linebacker this past season. Long-armed linebacker who was used in a variety of different roles: would defend the run as a traditional inside linebacker, shade over opposing receivers in zone, or rush the passer. Plays the game with physicality and a sense of urgency. Keeps his shoulders square to the line when defending the run, with good discipline. Flashes the ability to get extension and play off of blocks, with impressive contact balance for his size. Has sideline-to-sideline range, with impressive explosiveness and overall play speed. Closes fast and offers a wide tackling radius. Shows impressive suddenness as a pass-rusher, with the ability to dip his shoulder; was also asked to do a little bit of rushing off the edge. Looks comfortable dropping into zone coverage and getting enough depth to process route combinations; fast plant-and-drive on underneath throws. Was asked to execute some coverage assignments which covered a lot of ground.
Negatives:
Was never a full-time starter at Georgia. Has added around twelve pounds to his frame but might still need another ten or so at the next level. Looks more reactive than anticipatory at this point, leaving some yardage on the field. Can be lured into taking false steps by misdirection. Lapses into using his body to take on blocks instead of consistently getting extension and using his technique to stack/shed. Has trouble getting his head around and locating after turning his back in coverage. Didn’t see him playing in man during the games reviewed, although he has the athletic ability to do so. More of an effort/athleticism-based rusher than a technician.
Summary:
Got stuck in a rotational role behind some other talented prospeects at Georgia, but has the talent to be a pretty pro than college player, combining impressive speed, explosiveness, and range with more contact balance and toughness than anticipated from a player his size. Still needs time and reps to hone his instincts and continue developing bulk/functional strength, but could eventually work his way onto a defense, perhaps starting off on special teams before making it into sub packages as a coverage linebacker and situational pass-rusher.
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