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Large, wide-bodied dancing bear who wins with power, decently deceptive quicks, and some pass-rushing moves. Plays with astounding pop on first contact. Can play 1T if needed. Good bull rush but actually his hand work is more impressive. Occasionally will win through the line with his first step.
Weaknesses:
Not a tremendous run defender, and while he can get lateral across the line, his pursuit speed is only slightly above-average. Not a pass-rush move master. Mostly won with first-step quickness in college. He'll have to diversify his rushes in the NFL.
Accolades:
2021: CFP national champion
2021: All-America second team
NFL wrote:Wyatt was a four-star prospect from Decatur, Georgia, when he signed with the Bulldogs. He went to Hutchinson Community College in 2017 (30 tackles, 4.5 for loss with three sacks) to improve his grades before heading to Athens. Wyatt played in 12 games as a reserve in 2018 (19 tackles, 1.5 sacks) and played in 13 games with one start in 2019 (30 tackles, 1.5 for loss). He became a regular starter in 2020 (25 tackles, two for loss in 10 games) and burst onto the scene as a first-team All-SEC selection to lead the Bulldogs' national title run in 2021 (39 tackles, seven for loss with 2.5 sacks, two forced fumbles in 14 starts). -- by Chad Reuter
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 1
NFL Comparison
Maliek Collins
Overview
Highly active defensive tackle with decent strength. Wyatt is made for movement and disruptions. He helped himself in 2021 with better tape both against the run and as a pass rusher. His lateral quickness is useful in beating zone blocks and in sliding across the front in a game-based pass rush. Wyatt has adequate strength but struggles to withstand a second blocker. The traits are average, but the effort is consistent and Wyatt should fit nicely as a rotational, gap-seeking three-technique with disruptive flashes.
Strengths
Initial punch lands with some pop.
Lateral quickness beats move-blocker to the spot.
Uses slip-rip for penetration into A-gap.
Locates ball-carriers quickly when two-gapping.
Hustles around the field looking to make a play.
Shows urgency in locating a pass blocker's edge.
Enough lower-body strength to plow through redirect blocks.
Above-average change of direction inside pocket.
Weaknesses
Length is below average.
Average explosiveness into the neutral zone.
Tendency to drop helmet into initial contact.
Not enough sand to withstand down blocks.
Average hand usage and shed quickness.
Rush energy bogs down when stiff punches find him.
Lack of length shows up in his rush.
Doesn't have go-to moves for quick-rush wins.
Draft Network" wrote:Georgia’s Devonte Wyatt has been a four-year contributor for the Bulldog defense and has improved with each season. As a senior, Wyatt has seemingly put everything together and had a breakout season, which has earned him a trip to the Senior Bowl. Wyatt is an excellent athlete inside, displaying quickness and burst to penetrate gaps. He is a disruptive interior rusher with the quickness to win the edges inside and shoot gaps. Wyatt plays with good balance and has excellent change of direction and lateral mobility. He has very good speed overall to cross offensive linemen’s faces and is excellent with his hands, showing an ability to tie rush moves together inside. Wyatt is susceptible to power in the running game and there are times he loses gap integrity, especially when forced to face double teams. He has just average power overall and wins primarily with his first-step quickness and motor. A versatile defender, Wyatt can align anywhere along the line of scrimmage. having had success playing 0-tech all the way to rushing outside at 7-tech. A player whose best football is still ahead of him, Wyatt has the size, length, pass rush instincts, and athleticism to develop into a consistent interior rusher at the next level.
Ideal Role: Three-down interior defensive lineman who has positional versatility.
Scheme Fit: 4-3 3-technique
FILM EVALUATION
Written by Brentley Weissman
Games watched: Alabama (2021), Clemson (2021), Kentucky (2021)
Best Game Studied: Kentucky (2021)
Worst Game Studied: Clemson (2021)
First Step Quickness: Wyatt displays very good quickness off the snap and consistently was able to gain the edges of guards inside. He fires off low to the ground and was able to be a valuable interior penetrator for the Georgia defense. His quick, explosive, and can shoot gaps with excellent timing.
Flexibility: A loose and fluid athlete, Wyatt demonstrates the flexibility to slip through the edges of blocks. He shows good ankle flexion to bend at the top of his rush and get home to the quarterback. You see his ability to change direction when he drops to play in the open field.
Hand Counters: Wyatt displays very good hand use with a wide array of rush moves and counters. He flashes an outstanding strike-and-snatch move to quickly disengage and free himself from the grasp of offensive linemen. Thanks to his excellent motor, Wyatt works his hands to the very end of the play.
Hand Pop: Wyatt doesn’t have the strongest of hands but he can knock linemen back when he has good forward momentum and leverage. He primarily wins with an explosive first step, hand timing, and placement.
Run defending: Wyatt is a good run defender overall and definitely has the skill set to be an effective player in this phase at the next level. He has an above average anchor and can hold his own at the point of attack against single blocks. There are times he loses ground to double teams and gets washed out of his assignment. He flashes quickness to penetrate and consistently makes tackles for losses. He has outstanding range and makes plays up and down the line of scrimmage.
Effort: Wyatt plays the game with excellent effort. He always fights to the whistle and will work to uncover until the very end. He chases plays down backside and will get production late in the down because he never stops working.
Football I.Q: An instinctual player, Wyatt displays good football IQ in both phases of the game. He rarely lets himself get trapped and is always in good position on misdirection plays. He shows an above average ability to read blocking schemes and is quick to sniff out screens.
Lateral Mobility: For a big man, Wyatt displays outstanding lateral mobility. He is light on his feet and can cross gaps with ease, showing quickness and coordination. He can bend, flip his hips, and change direction in space. He has tremendous range in the running game and makes plays sideline to sideline.
Functional Strength: While Wyatt displays good functional strength overall, he won’t get mistaken for an overly powerful player at the point of attack. He flashes a good ability to hold the point of attack and also win with a bull rush but this isn’t an explosive knock-back player at the point of attack.
Versatility: Wyatt is a very versatile player, showing an ability to align at various spots on the defensive front. He wins playing 1-technique, 3-technique, and even lines up in a two-point stance playing 7-technique rushing from the edge.
Prospect Comparison: Corey Liuget (2011 NFL Draft, San Diego Chargers)
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 85.67/100 (First Round Value)
Crabbs Grade: 85.50/100
Marino Grade: 87.00/100
Harris Grade: 85.50/100
Sanchez Grade: 86.50/100
Weissman Grade: 84.50/100
Parson Grade: 85.00/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Classic oversized nose tackle who will make big defensive tackles look small on the field. Absolutely mammoth individual with length that matches his immense girth. Great athlete for his size. Has enough athleticism to get lateral on stretch runs. Block disengaging is, of course, a strength. Supreme pop on contact. Impressive closing speed in space on running backs. High floor, lower ceiling DT.
Weaknesses:
Not someone who'll win many battles with burst or quickness at the NFL level. Only good, not great against double teams because he can get a little high in those scenarios. Average pass-rush move arsenal. but does have a nice arm-over. Conditioning is good for his size, but he's unlikely to be an every-down defensive tackle.
Accolades:
2021: Chuck Bednarik Award winner (best defensive player)
2021: John Outland Trophy winner (best interior lineman)
NFL wrote:Davis garnered Freshman All-American and SEC All-Freshman Team honors playing in 11 games with four starts in 2018 (25 tackles, 1.5 sacks). He was the co-winner of the Bulldogs' "Up Front" Award for strong line play in 2019, starting eight of 14 games and recording 18 tackles, 4.5 for loss and 2.5 sacks. League coaches voted him second-team All-SEC in his junior campaign in 2020 (16 tackles, one sack in seven starts) despite Davis missing time with an elbow injury. As a senior, the Charlotte native became a first-team Associated Press All-American and All-SEC pick for the 2021 national champions, winning the Chuck Bednarik Award and Outland Trophy as one of the top defenders in the country. He was also a finalist for the Bronko Nagurski, Walter Camp Player of the Year and Senior CLASS Award for his academic and athletic achievements. Davis started 14 of 15 appearances in 2021, posting 32 tackles, 5.5 for loss with two sacks. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 1
NFL Comparison
Haloti Ngata
Overview
Beefy, mountainous nose tackle with the size, power and will to clog the drain and alter the offense's desire to run between the tackles. Davis has anchor and quick-shed talent to eviscerate single blocks and successfully occupy double teams, allowing linebackers to thrive in pursuit of ball-carriers. He plays upright, lacking agility and reactive quickness to mark up a stat sheet with any consistency, but that's not what he's asked to do. Davis won't be as effective against outside-zone teams and won't offer much rush, but he could become one of the league's best run-pluggers as soon as he takes the field.
Strengths
Assignment-oriented player but still thrives.
Squares the block and tosses it aside when he's ready.
Flows through an edge when he finds his positioning.
Pure power to battle through wash-down blocks.
Can shed blocks and transition a gap over.
Has talent to do more than just neutralize double teams.
Hands are pinpoint accurate into the blocker's shoulders.
Plays with hand quickness to slap opponent's hands off of him.
Never on the ground.
Won't be blocked by a single block.
Has size to overwhelm certain opponents.
Potential to alter opponent's game plan.
Weaknesses
Occasional leverage issues due to his height.
Can be a little straight-legged into lateral engagement.
Below-average first-step quickness.
Lacks knee bend to roll downhill with bull rush.
Change of direction is not a thing for him.
Can't disengage and tackle suddenly.
Redirected due to lack of bend in his rush.
Draft Network wrote:Jordan Davis is a senior who aligns as an interior defensive lineman for the Bulldogs' even-front defense. He typically aligns at the 3-tech but has also played the 1-tech as they shift their front pre-snap. He demonstrates good reactive athleticism and lateral agility for a young man his size. In the passing game, he has grown tremendously and his conditioning this season has seemingly contributed to this. He is primarily a bull rusher who can push the pocket and put the center in the lap of the quarterback. He is extremely impactful as someone who absolutely commands a double team, which frees up other players in that front. In the run game, he is dominant. He is nearly impossible to single-block. He has extremely explosive hands to lock out and disengage from offensive linemen. His skill set suggests that he can either be a single or two-gap player in an even or odd front. He can remain on the field in passing situations, but teams may maximize his effectiveness by limiting his reps due to his size and conditioning.
Ideal Role: Starting IDL
Scheme Fit: He can play in multiple schemes but would be most effective in a 4-3
First Step Explosion: He is a player that I would consider “stronger” than he is explosive — that said he logged one of the most impressive (and dynamic) NFL Combines in history after cutting weight for the event. He does a good job of creating a new line of scrimmage with his power. His ability to walk the center back 2-3 yards disrupts an offense.
Flexibility: He isn’t the most limber athlete in linear situations unless you're adjusting him for his size. However, he can play with leverage on the interior for a taller interior player. He has had issues in the past with playing with good pad level but he appears to have improved in this facet in 2021.
Hand Counter: He doesn’t necessarily use his hands well to counter. However, the power he has in his hands allows him to disengage whenever he wants, against any lineman, and get to the football.
Hand Power: He has very good power in his hips and hands. He comes off the ball and jolts linemen back with his power. He also shows the power in his hands to disengage.
Run Defending: He is the best interior run defender in the country. He simply cannot be single-blocked on run plays. Even when he is double-teamed, he still makes plays in the run game.
Effort: In the past, the consistency in his effort has been questioned. But he appears to be in better condition in 2021. This helps him to give better effort over the course of a game.
Football IQ: He displays good football IQ. This is evident in his ability to locate the football in the run game. He also plays with good instinctive feel for blocking schemes.
Lateral Mobility: He has sufficient lateral agility. He is a massive young man but does a good job disengaging and getting to the football against the run. He can move down the line when plays are out of his vicinity.
Core/Functional Strength: He displays outstanding functional strength. He is dominant on the interior and cannot be single-blocked. He creates a new line of scrimmage with his power off the snap.
Versatility: He displays the positional versatility to play any of the interior defensive line positions. He also shows the schematic versatility to play in an even or odd front scheme.
Prospect Comparison: Derrick Brown (2020 NFL Draft, Carolina Panthers)
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 84.33/100 (Second Round Value)
Crabbs Grade: 83.50/100
Marino Grade: 83.50/100
Harris Grade: 85.00/100
Sanchez Grade: 85.00/100
Weissman Grade: 85.00/100
Parson Grade: 83.00/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Colossal human being at the nose tackle spot. Played the 1T and more 3T than you'd expect for a human being his size. Mostly a power player -- bull rush -- and more finesse than expected. Powerful but not overwhelmingly so on a regular basis because rushes are high. Immovable against doubles. Club move is fantastic as a pass rusher, and he'll use it as an awesome counter. Mostly a two-down player but has some pass-rush upside because of his hand work and natural power.
Weaknesses:
First-step quickness is good, not great. Not a tremendous run defender because he's not twitchy nor a consistent block defeater.
Accolades:
Named top DT on National Team at Senior Bowl
Played in 33 games over three seasons
Jones is a Connecticut native whose talent was too strong for Huskies coaches to ignore. He started 10 of 12 games played as a freshman in 2018 (46 tackles, 5.5 for loss) and 11 of 12 games as a sophomore, recording 40 tackles, six for loss with 3.5 sacks, four pass breakups. The team did not play in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns, but he impressed with his 2021 play (47 tackles, 7.5 for loss with 4.5 sacks in 11 starts). -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 2
NFL Comparison
Johnathan Hankins
Overview
Nose tackle with size and power that fuels his rumbling playing style. Jones lacks explosive get-off and hand twitch. He's unlikely to be a quick-win defender, but the anchor and upper-body power are present for gap-control duties once he gets his footwork and hand usage schooled up. He was a standout on a bad defense and more than held his own against the toughest competition he faced. Jones has the demeanor, traits and overall ability to become a successful run-plugger and potential starter in a two-gapping scheme.
Strengths
Adequate length with large mitts.
Wide-body who is built for battle.
Play strength to press and stabilize when setting an edge.
Gap-control potential in the middle of a defense.
Sees into backfield and activates counters to get rid of the block.
Possesses potential to elevate his game.
Flashes power to push through attempts to seal him.
Centers will require help to block him.
Weaknesses
Not very twitchy off the ball and into the block.
Fails to generate early control with hand quickness.
Room for improvement with pad level and hand usage.
Inconsistent reading and reaching with early zone steps.
Doesn't have a proper game plan against edge pressure from down blocks.
Average hip sink to anchor against double teams.
Hands and feet aren't synced up with enough quickness to unlock edges as rusher.
Travis Jones had offers from Boston College, Temple, Rutgers, and Buffalo but chose to stay close to home and play his college football at UConn where he developed into a highly-regarded team leader. Jones arrived on campus at 360 pounds with 30% body fat but has since dropped 30 pounds and reduced his body fat percentage to 13%. While Jones profiles best to a 1-technique/nose tackle role that provides most of his value on running downs, he is a terrific athlete for his size and has found ways to apply consistent pressure on the quarterback despite all of the challenging dynamics to consider within the Huskies defense. Jones is a stout run defender that frequently resets the line of scrimmage and is unselfish in how he takes on blocks, eats space, and keeps the second level clean. He is a strong processor against the run that is rarely out of his fit. As a pass rusher, Jones is an excellent pocket pusher that has active hands and the ability to power through rush angles. There are plenty of reasons to believe that under better circumstances and given his unique physical skill set and body transformation that he will be an even better pro than college player. He should immediately make an NFL run defense better and make the unit more stout.
First Step Explosiveness: Jones isn’t the type of player that is going to out-quick everyone but he has a good short-area burst for a man of his stature. He fires off the ball with intent, working to take control of reps and reset the line of scrimmage. He is clean when releasing out of his stance.
Flexibility: I’m impressed with Jones’ flexibility and ability to change directions. While he isn’t going to consistently corner blocks, he is loose enough to reduce, flatten, and power through the edges of blocks. He does a great job of playing with extension and redirecting quickly.
Hand Counters: Jones has active hands and he’s deliberate about winning with first contact and he has terrific placement with his hands. He does well to keep his pads clean with heavy strikes that are well-timed. While he isn’t the most sudden with his pass-rush moves, he does work combinations and competes to reduce angles and power through gaps.
Hand Power: Jones has heavy hands that often stun his opponents and enables him to take control of reps. His strikes are firm, which allows him to keep his pads clean and maintain separation from blocks while his own hands are not easily displaced. There is plenty of pop in his punch.
Run Defending: Jones is an outstanding run defender where his power, mass, and processing skills shine. He is a sturdy and unselfish run defender that processes run schemes extremely well. He does well to anchor, maintain his run fit and keep the second-level clean. He holds his own against double teams and single blocks won’t move him.
Effort (Motor): Jones’ motor is always cranked. The UConn coaching staff raves about his work ethic and he is celebrated as a big-time team leader. While the Huskies have plenty to be embarrassed about as a football program, Jones is a bright spot. He battles through the whistle on every play, even when things around him aren’t secure.
Football IQ: I find Jones to be an extremely smart processor against the run. He understands blocking schemes and his role in the defense. He plays with a strong awareness of his skill set and is rarely out of position. There are some occasions where I want him to feel down blocks better but it’s a minor gripe.
Lateral Mobility: Jones’ lateral mobility is highly impressive for his size. He does well to flow down the line of scrimmage and pursuit and I love his ability to change directions and shut down lanes. He won’t be confused as explosive in terms of lateral movement but offers more than most players built like him.
Core/Functional Strength: Jones is a powerful man. He has a stout anchor against the run and is outstanding at pushing the pocket. His hands are firm. Jones has the ability to make an NFL defense tougher and immediately make the run defense better.
Versatility: Jones brings most of his value as an interior player that is dynamic at stopping the run. With that said, his ability to push the pocket gives him value on passing downs and he has the ability to power through the edges of blocks. While he’s clearly an interior A-gap defender that brings most of his value on run downs, he isn’t deficient on passing downs. He found ways to produce consistent pressure in college despite very little talent around him on a team that rarely had a lead to present advantageous opportunities to rush the passer.
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Super-long interior rusher. Burst off the ball is impressive for his size, and when he uses his length -- which he is not consistent in doing -- he can be very disruptive and powerful. Large tackling radius because of his incredible length, and he's an asset on twists because of his acceleration for his size. May be somewhat of a tweener in the NFL due to his size/length, but the hustle, burst, and length make him decently intriguing.
Weaknesses:
Plays very high. Tries to get lower but needs to do so with knee bend as opposed to dipping his head. Often leans into blockers and the rep is done, he's stuck. Needs to get much better with his hands to defeat blockers that way.
Accolades:
Two-time All-Big 12 second team
2022: Senior Bowl MVP (five tackles, two sacks)
Perrion (pronounced PAIR-ee-ahn) Winfrey was rated as the No. 1 overall junior college recruit in the country after playing two years at Iowa Western Community College. The three-star recruit from Lake Park High School in Illinois garnered second-team All-Big 12 Conference accolades in his first year in Norman. He started eight of 11 games played (19 tackles, six for loss, three pass breakups) and made a huge play when blocking a field goal against rival Texas in the third overtime to help the Sooners get the victory. Winfrey stated after the game that he noticed a Texas lineman was breathing hard and asked a teammate to switch spots so he could take advantage of the weakness. He was named a second-team All-Big 12 Conference selection in 2021, posting 23 tackles, 11 for loss with 5.5 sacks in 12 starts. Winfrey opted out of the team's bowl game to prepare for the NFL draft. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Rounds 2-3
Overview
Winfrey looks the part and will impress with his body type at the NFL Scouting Combine. However, he's frequently late off the ball. A tight lower half and disappointing lateral agility make him a liability against move-blocking schemes. He does, however, have an explosive get-off and heavy hands. His flashes at the Senior Bowl improved his draft stock and made teams take notice. He has some hit-or-miss elements to his game but has good rotational value with a chance to become an eventual starter.
Strengths
Explosive hips shoot him into the neutral zone.
Power to pop and knock back a move blocker.
Roughly 41 percent of his tackles went for losses.
Keeps working through the whistle.
Consistently urgent pass rusher.
Violent hand swipes clear the punch.
Upfield power off the snap can key a bull rush.
Weaknesses
Felled by slow reaction time to the snap.
Limited quickness due to tight lower body.
Consistently beaten to lateral positioning.
Plays with narrow, linear movements.
Pass rush lacks athletic counters.
Not an edge-to-edge rush threat.
Poor balance and body control through punch redirection.
Perrion Winfrey is a former JUCO transfer that transferred into the Oklahoma Sooner football program in 2020. Winfrey worked his way into the starting lineup and has been the starter for the Sooner defense for the last two years. Winfrey has good size and length that allows the Sooner defensive staff to line him in multiple positions along the defensive line—everywhere from a 0-technique to a 5-technique. Winfrey’s versatility has translated to on-the-field production, recording more than five sacks, 20 tackles, and multiple QB pressures. Winfrey is an athletic defensive lineman that has an explosive first step that he uses to penetrate backfields and cause havoc. His most disruptive play comes when he correctly slants into the offensive play and is able to get backfield penetration resulting in a tackle for loss. At Oklahoma, Winfrey is undoubtedly the best defensive lineman on the Sooners’ defense and that’s the main reason why he is utilized in so many positions. In the NFL, Winfrey will thrive once he is able to settle into one position and learn the techniques of the specific position. That will allow him to further develop some of the raw traits (pass rush and hand counters).
Ideal Role: A gap penetrator that uses his first step to disrupt plays in the backfield.
Scheme Fit: 4-3 scheme 3-tech or 5-tech against heavy run teams. Heavy slant team, attacking defense.
FILM EVALUATION
Written by Keith Sanchez
Games watched: Baylor (2021), West Virginia (2021), Oklahoma State (2021) , Texas (2021)
Best Game Studied: Oklahoma State (2021)
Worst Game Studied: West Virginia (2021)
First Step Explosiveness: Winfrey has a quick first step that he uses to get gap penetration and make disruptive plays in the backfield. Winfrey’s quick initial first step is on display in this Oklahoma defense that likes to slant into plays to cause disruption. His first step also allows him to gain leverage on offensive linemen who are trying to reach-block him in zone blocking schemes. Winfrey is able to beat them to the spot and force the backs to cut back into the flow of the defense.
Flexibility: Winfrey is an athletic defensive lineman that has great change of direction. Winfrey’s flexibility is on full display in his ability to stretch out zone run plays by running along the line of scrimmage, maintaining gap integrity. Winfrey’s athleticism benefits him in his pass-rush sequence also, as he is able to get upfield and quickly redirect to evade offensive linemen and get pressure on the quarterback.
Hand Counters: At this point in Winfrey's development, his most consistent hand usage technique consists of a swim move, violent rip move, and he flashed the ability to execute a push-pull maneuver. In the run game, he can shed offensive linemen quickly to follow the ball-carrier. Winfrey’s hand usage is present but can be further developed to make him a more technically sound defensive lineman.
Hand Power: Winfrey flashes powerful hands at the point of attack. Has the strong hands to get extension and quickly shed defenders to make a play on the ball-carrier. Has a violent rip move that he uses to get backfield penetration on offensive linemen.
Run Defending: Winfrey plays multiple positions along the defensive line and his ability to properly play the run is determined by what position he is in. When he is directly head up over the center, he is able to take advantage of smaller offensive linemen and quickly get extension and shed him. When lined up at a 4i and he has to take on double teams, he struggles to hold the point of attack and he often gives up ground along the line of scrimmage. As a 5-tech or 3-tech when he has to play the edge of an offensive lineman, he is the most effective and able to maintain gap integrity throughout the duration of the play.
Effort: His motor is evident through the effort he displays on every play. Winfrey has made multiple plays chasing down plays backside or running 20-plus yards down the field. He starts the play with great effort and finishes throughout the play. While he isn't able to hold the point of attack against double teams, he fights throughout the duration of the play. Winfrey is a scrappy player that works to make plays and gives good effort throughout the entirety of the game.
Football IQ: The Sooners play Winfrey in just about every gap alignment possible within a defense and this is a testament to his football IQ. Generally has a strong understanding of what blocks are trying to be performed on him, which can be difficult to understand for a player who plays multiple defensive line positions. Has a great feel of the zone-blocking scheme and immediately triggers to turn and run to maintain leverage on offensive linemen.
Lateral Mobility: Winfrey has faced multiple zone blocking schemes that force defensive linemen to move laterally and Winfrey has defended them well. Has a quick first step followed by fluid hips that allows him to extend down the line of scrimmage. Winfrey also has the ability to change direction to redirect and chase down backs in the backfield.
Core/Functional Strength: Generates most of his power against the run from his quick first step. Has the functional strength to lock and shed offensive linemen, but struggles to hold the point of attack against double teams. In his pass rush, he can convert speed to power and bull rush offensive linemen to get to the quarterback.
Versatility: In the Sooner defense, Winfrey's overall body mass allows for him to play multiple positions along the defensive line. He has the length to play as a defensive end and is strong enough to engage with the interior of offensive lines. Though he has a versatile skill set, Winfrey will be best suited to play in an attacking 4-3 scheme where he can use his quick first step to get upfield and become a disruptive defender.
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Quick and strong hands allow him to win at the point of attack. Does a great job of establishing leverage. Very active. Can string together moves.
Weaknesses:
Inconsistent production in 2021. Positional tweener in the sense that he is neither a perfect fit at defensive end nor tackle. Does a great job of establishing leverage. Very active. Can string together moves. Did not test well at the combine.
Accolades:
2021: Consensus All-America
2021: Career-high 8.5 sacks (T-5th-most in SEC)
Leal (pronounced lee-AL) was a five-star prospect from San Antonio who chose Texas A&M early in the process despite offers from many schools. He enrolled early but had surgery on a pre-existing injury, so he did not partake in 2019 spring practices. Leal played well enough in the fall, however, to be named the team's Top Defensive Newcomer (38 tackles, 5.5 for loss with two sacks, in 13 games) after taking over as a starter for seven games when Micheal Clemons went down to injury. He started all 10 games for the Aggies in 2020 (37 tackles, seven for loss with 2.5 sacks, one interception, three pass breakups) and was named to the Associated Press All-Bowl Team with his seven tackles, one for loss, in the Orange Bowl win over North Carolina. Leal played defensive end most of that season but shifted inside when Justin Madubuike left the team to prepare for the NFL draft. The Associated Press named Leal a first-team All-American in 2021, SEC coaches voted him a first-team all-conference pick and he was named a finalist for the Ted Hendricks Award as the nation's top defensive end after racking up 58 tackles, 12.5 for loss with 8.5 sacks, and two pass breakups in 12 starts. The team could not play in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl due to COVID-19 issues on the squad. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 3
NFL Comparison
John Franklin-Myers
Overview
Early entry defensive lineman who appears to be caught between "best fit" positions at this time. Leal possesses adequate rush skills and knows how to craft a rush plan, but a lack of suddenness and closing burst turns potential sacks into hurries without the help of a long pocket count. When the motor is cranked up, he can stack and slide past run blockers with efficiency and quickness. He didn't put together the tape that was expected and disappointing reps against Evan Neal (Alabama) and Charles Cross (Mississippi State) could create concerns about his pro readiness. Most will see him as an even-front defender in some capacity, but playing 3-4 DE might be his best fit as a pro.
Strengths
Lands hands quickly with initial strike.
Hands and feet work well together.
Efficient in punching and sliding around the block at point of attack.
Treats staggered blocks in his direction like a bag drill.
Hips and shoulder-turn to entice whiffed blocks.
Uses one-arm press to lift and separate.
Rushes with a plan.
Ability to toggle between finesse and power.
Times counters according to blocker's weight distribution.
Spin counter is quick and well-balanced.
Weaknesses
Lacks clear-cut position fit.
Below-average contain quickness and range as a DE.
Late getting lateral versus zone blocks.
Average knockback pop as interior defender.
Pass rush lacks suddenness to put blocker in a bind.
Disappointing acceleration as looper on tackle/end twists.
Gradual closing burst turns would-be sacks into hurries.
Sources Tell Us
"The tape didn't match the hype he had going into the season. You never really feel him (on tape) like you should for a top player." -- Area scout for NFC team
DeMarvin Leal is a former 5-star prospect out of the state of Texas. Leal was the first big recruiting get for the Jimbo Fisher era and served as the pillar of a much improved defensive line. Leal is a true junior that has started all three years for Texas A&M. As a prospect, Leal possesses rare size, athleticism, and functional strength that makes him a dominant and versatile defensive lineman. In the Texas A&M defensive scheme, Leal lines up in every alignment and is impactful at every position. He has the power to collapse pockets from the interior and the speed to be an effective edge rusher. In the NFL, Leal will be best utilized as an interior defensive lineman who can overwhelm offensive linemen with his ability to convert speed to power. Overall, Leal has rare athleticism will become a physically dominant defensive lineman once he is placed in one specific role.
Ideal Role: 3-tech where he can use his rare combination of size and athleticism to get gap penetration.
Scheme Fit: Attacking 4-3 3-tech.
FILM EVALUATION
Written by Keith Sanchez
Games watched: Alabama (2021), Mississippi State (2021), LSU (2021), Ole Miss (2021).
Best Game Studied: Mississippi State (2021)
Worst Game Studied: Alabama (2021)
First Step Explosiveness: Leal plays as both an IDL and an edge player and his first-step explosiveness varies by alignment. On the interior, he has an exceptional first step that allows him to quickly get into gaps and get backfield penetration. As an edge player, he is inconsistent in his ability to get off the ball quick enough for him to get that leverage on offensive linemen and dictate the play.
Flexibility: Leal has an impressive change of direction in the open field. Displays very fluid hips in his ability to get upfield and redirect based on which way the ball-carrier goes. Leal also shows great bend in his ability to dip under offensive tackles and run the arc to the QB.
Hand Counters: Leal is a great technician with his hands and has a wide array of hand maneuvers to counter offensive linemen. Exceptional in hand placement and swiping offensive linemen’s hands away from him. Showed a quick swim move to consistently beat offensive linemen attempting to run block him. Also has a quick two-hand swipe that he uses to beat offensive linemen in his pass-rush plan.
Hand Power: Leal possesses very strong hands. Consistently uses strong hands to stall offensive linemen at the line of scrimmage and disengage with them when necessary. He also uses quick, violent hands to swim over offensive linemen to get backfield pressure consistently.
Run Defending: Leal has shown to be an excellent run defender. Repeatedly showed the ability to lock out defenders and shed them to get to the ball-carrier. Also uses his athleticism to chase down ball-carriers from the backside of a play. At times, Leal can play high and allows double teams to get under his pads and move him off the line of scrimmage. Overall, Leal’s strength and natural athleticism make him a dominant run defender.
Effort/Motor: Leal is a great hustle player and repeatedly chases down ball-carriers 20-plus yards down the field. His natural athleticism allows him to roam the field in pursuit of the ball-carrier in ways most defensive linemen can't. Needs to improve on his effort rushing the passer. When his initial pass rush move doesn’t work, he, at times, stops working to the QB and stalls at the line of scrimmage.
Football IQ: In the Texas A&M defense, Leal plays multiple different positions along the front, which displays that he has an in-depth knowledge of the defenses. In the run game, he understands down blocks and reach blocks and is able to quickly defeat them. He is also a quick reactor to screen plays, often disrupting the play.
Lateral Mobility: Leal has great lateral mobility that he uses in a wide array of situations. His athleticism is on display in his ability to keep leverage on offensive linemen to prevent them from reach-blocking him in zone concepts. He also showed excellent lateral mobility in his ability to change direction in the open field. Has the ability to stick his foot in the ground and flip his hips to react to ball-carriers changing direction. He is a very fluid defensive lineman.
Core/ Functional Strength: Leal has a well-developed lower half combined with a muscular upper body that gives him great overall strength. He has great overall functional strength that allows him to easily convert speed to power in his pass rush. His strong core allows him to defeat run blocks without having a perfect stance.
Versatility: At Texas A&M, Leal aligned at every position along the defensive line. His natural strength and power made him a dominant player at the IDL position. He is also athletic enough to give good pass-rush reps when lined up as an edge defender. Leal has rare athleticism and power that allows him to play all over the field and be an effective player.
Prospect Comparison: Chris Jones (2016 NFL Draft, Kansas City Chiefs)
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 84.17/100 (Second Round Value)
Crabbs Score: 85.00/100
Marino Score: 86.00/100
Harris Score: 83.00/100
Sanchez Score: 86.00/100
Weissman Score: 83.00/100
Parson Score: 83.00/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Angry rusher with legitimate 0T, 1T, 3T, and 5T flexibility. Super long. His physique and game is a mix of the classic types at those three positions. He really anchors well against double teams. Grows roots and is not easily moved. Almost always starts his rushes with some type of pass-rush move, usually leans on the club, which is mostly effective. Good burst/energy to all of his rushes. Swim move is solid, too. Two-gapping skill is next level. First-step will threaten. Reads plays in a hurry and plays with a high motor. I love how much energy he exerts every play. Very high floor DL who sells himself as a versatile type.
Weaknesses:
Rushes are high, which saps some of his strength. Would like to see a more of a bull rush in his repertoire. Of course, not a super-fast type at his size.
Accolades:
2021: Ranked second on team in sacks (nine)
2021: All-SEC second team
hidarian (pronounced fuh-DARE-ee-un) Mathis wears the No. 48 jersey as a tribute to his cousin, Tyrell Cameron, who died after suffering a neck injury on a punt return while in high school. The top-40 overall recruit signed with Alabama before the 2017 season, during which he redshirted as the team won a national title. SEC coaches saw enough of Mathis in 2018 to name him to the All-Freshman Team (18 tackles in 15 games as a reserve). He showed more flashes of talent as a sophomore, racking up 27 tackles in 12 games (two starts). Mathis started six contests in the Tide's FBS championship 2020 season, playing in all 13 contests (31 tackles, five for loss and 1.5 sacks, three pass breakups). He earned second-team All-SEC accolades in 2021, recording a career-high 53 tackles, 12 for loss and nine sacks, and two pass breakups in 15 games (12 starts). Mathis has a daughter, Kyle Rae, who was born in February 2020. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 3
NFL Comparison
DaQuan Jones
Overview
Scheme-versatile wide body with long arms and solid technique at the point of attack. Mathis is a Nick Saban-style run-plugger with powerful hands and a dense anchor. He comes into the league ready for two-gapping duties. He's more effective against downhill rush attacks than move-blocking schemes, but he's more a piece of the front than a standout playmaker. He can push the pocket on early down passing plays but is likely to come off the field on passing downs. Mathis should compete for early playing time as a 4-3/3-4 nose or as a five-technique.
Strengths
Named a permanent team captain for the 2021 season.
Outstanding blend of girth and length.
Instant ground-to-pads hand quickness off the snap.
Will punch and separate with two hands or one.
Possesses three-position versatility in odd/even fronts.
Harmonious hands and feet to punch and slide laterally.
Two-gapper with traits to sit and fight versus downhill run game.
Dents protection with bull rush or edge attack.
Maintains sack viability as muddle rusher.
Weaknesses
Limited range away from home base.
Below average capturing the spot against reach block.
Unable to keep pace with wide-flowing run game.
Needs a more consistent response to down blocks.
Premature shed gives runners a shot to alter their track.
Takes a while to free himself from a sticky punch.
Upfield rush lacks desired edge-to-edge quickness.
Phidarian Mathis is a former 4-star prospect from the state of Louisiana that was a part of one of those classic LSU vs. Alabama recruiting battles—he chose Alabama. Mathis is a redshirt senior that has been a part of a deep rotation along the Alabama defensive line. In the 2021 season, Mathis took a huge step in production. This year, Mathis has accumulated more than 40 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and more than seven sacks. Mathis is a versatile defender that can line up in multiple different alignments along a defensive front. He is a technician against the run and is able to consistently lock and shed offensive linemen to make timely tackles. He also has the athleticism combined with an array of pass rush moves to provide pressure from the interior of a defensive line. Mathis can play in multiple fronts and will immediately provide a physical presence for any defensive front. In the NFL, Mathis has the potential to earn a starting role his rookie year and become a productive defensive lineman for many years.
Ideal Role: Versatile interior defender that can stop the run and offer an interior pass rush presence
Scheme Fit: As a 3-4 DE or a 3-tech in an attacking 4-3 defense
FILM EVALUATION
Written by Keith Sanchez
Games watched: Ole Miss (2021), Georgia (2021), Florida (2021), Texas A&M (2021)
Best Game Studied: Ole Miss (2021)
Worst Game Studied: Florida (2021)
First Step Explosiveness: He has a good first step that translates itself into the power he is able to generate at the line of scrimmage. He is able to quickly knock back offensive linemen and get great leverage. When he is decisive in coming off the ball, he can utilize his quick first step to apply an interior pass rush.
Flexibility: Mathis’ frame has more upper-body mass than lower body, which can affect his overall mobility. In the open field, Mathis changes direction but has to decelerate fully before redirecting. His limited flexibility also affects movement skills on his counter pass-rush moves—they seem to be telegraphed at times.
Hand Counters: Mathis is a technician with his hands. Has multiple moves that he uses in both the turn and in his pass rush. In the run game, he effectively shoots his hands to shock offensive linemen and quickly disengages. In his pass-rush sequence, he can use a two-hand swipe to get around defenders, or he can use a chop and rip move to apply QB pressure.
Hand Power: Mathis has excellent strength in his hands. Uses his strong hands to stabilize and control offensive linemen at the line of scrimmage. He’s seemingly effortlessly able to disengage with offensive linemen by throwing them out of the way. Mathis can also use a stiff long-arm when converting speed to power to push offensive linemen back into the quarterback.
Run Defending: Mathis plays the run at a high level using really good technique. His overall strength allows him to choose which technique he wants to beat offensive linemen with. He can do a quick shock and shed maneuver to make the tackle, or he can effectively lock out offensive linemen and anchor if he needs to maintain gap integrity. Mathis is also effective at setting the edge on outside runs. When he decides to, Mathis can use a quick swim move to blow past offensive linemen and make a tackle in the backfield.
Effort/Motor: Mathis is a part of a defensive line rotation that keeps him fresh and allows for him to provide good effort and hustle on the interior defensive line. He consistently chases ball-carriers down from the backside of a play. He will also make an effort to run 10-plus yards down the field in pursuit of the play.
Football IQ: Mathis plays a multitude of positions along the front, which shows his knowledge of Alabama’s multiple-front defense. He is able to quickly diagnose blocks and properly play them. Mathis has a relatively good IQ that assists in his dominance as a run defender.
Lateral Mobility: Mathis is able to play zone run blocking schemes but can get outreached due to his limited lateral mobility. He has the ability to run sideline to sideline but lacks suddenness in the open field. Mathis will give great effort as a sideline-to-sideline defender but he is primarily a defender that needs to get vertical to become disruptive.
Core/Functional Strength: Mathis has great functional strength that shows itself in his ability to play the run at a high level. Mathis is able to shock blockers and stabilize throughout the duration of the play. While playing the double team, Mathis is able to hold ground and make it difficult for offensive linemen to make it to the second-level defenders. Mathis has great strength that will give him an opportunity to play early as a run-down defender.
Versatility: Mathis plays multiple positions on the interior of this Alabama defense. On the next level, Mathis will play primarily as a defensive tackle. His versatility will be limited due to his lack of true lateral mobility.
Prospect Comparison: A'Shawn Robinson (2016 NFL Draft, Detroit Lions)
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 74.00/100 (Fourth Round Value)
Crabbs Grade: 70.00/100
Marino Grade: 72.00/100
Harris Grade: 74.00/100
Sanchez Grade: 76.50/100
Weissman Grade: 76.00/100
Parson Grade: 75.00/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Hulking two-gap type who has the lengthy frame to play 5T but primarily manned the nose position in college. Fights hard to battle through blockers. Work against double teams is adequate but playing on the edge of 3-man front is where he'd have the most success in the NFL. His large, naturally strong body will give him the most appeal to NFL teams.
Weaknesses:
Build-up speed is there more so than burst off the snap. Not someone who's going to win with a pass-rush plan. Power is good, not great. Nothing really spectacular about his play or his traits
Accolades:
2021: Started 11 of 12 games as redshirt senior after playing nearly entire career at Illinois State
2019: All-MVFC honorable mention
After receiving all-state honors in football and winning a state wrestling title at Bloomington High School (Ill.), Ridgeway signed with in-state FCS program Illinois State. After a redshirt season, he promptly displayed FBS-level talent, starting 10 of 11 games played to garner Freshman All-American and Missouri Valley Football Conference All-Newcomer Team honors in 2018 (30 tackles, two for loss). Ridgeway was an honorable mention all-conference performer in 2019 (50 tackles, three for loss, two pass breakups in 15 starts). He was voted a first-team All-MVFC pick after the spring 2021 season, tying for the team lead with 22 tackles (three for loss) in the team's four games, while also intercepting a pass. He transferred to Arkansas for 2021. Ridgeway missed the season opener after having an appendectomy but started 11 of the next 12 contests, recording 39 tackles, a career-high four for loss with two sacks. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Rounds 4-5
NFL Comparison
Quinton Dial
Overview
College nose tackle with the size and length for consideration along the interior or as an odd front defensive end. Ridgeway is more wrestler than gap-eater when taking on blocks as a nose. He's likely to be coveted by traits-based evaluators eager to develop the physical ingredients into a more polished product. While most of his experience has come at nose tackle, the sum of his parts might make more sense as a 3-4 defensive end, where his long arms and natural power would become more beneficial as an edge-setter. Regardless of position, he won't offer much help as a pass rusher, so rotational lineman with upside is likely to become his tag as a Day 3 prospect.
Strengths
Impressive physical measurements.
Long arms and big hands.
State champion wrestler with core strength and lean mass.
Room for marked improvement with additional technique work.
Adequate pad level into double teams.
Better reactive athleticism than expected when runner tests his gaps.
Push rusher but seeks out early access to blocker's edge.
Weaknesses
Lumbering get-off as pass rusher.
Rarely see rush counters and secondary rush falls flat.
Knocked off of his base by down blocks.
Failed to defend gaps effectively against Georgia's physical front.
Ends up on the ground too often.
More mauler than technician with hand usage.
Sources Tell Us
"Yeah, I didn't like the Georgia tape, but for guys who look the way he does, you just bet on the physical more than the tape." -- Scout for AFC team
John Ridgeway was the starting nose tackle for the Arkansas Razorbacks. Ridgeway transferred to the Arkansas program from Illinois State, where he played for four years. Illinois State played their season during the spring of 2021 and then Ridgeway transferred to Arkansas, so he essentially played two seasons at one time. In his one year at Arkansas, Ridgeway was able to make an impression and took on some of the best offensive lines the SEC has to offer. The Razorbacks played a grueling schedule which was a good test for the FCS transfer, playing programs like Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Auburn, and Penn State. Ridgeway passed the test. Ridgeway served as the anchor for the Razorback defense and was consistently able to take on double teams and be a disruptive force in the middle of the defense. Ridgeway has natural strength and heavy hands that, when he shoots his hands, can knock back the offensive lineman and literally press their upper body backward. Ridgeway plays in a low stance where he is able to play with good leverage, which makes him a difficult player to move even with double teams. On the next level in the right scheme, Ridgeway can be an immediate starter and can become an instant run-stopping interior defensive lineman.
Games watched: Alabama (2021), Texas A&M (2021), Georgia (2021), Penn St. (2021)
Best Game Studied: Georgia (2021)
Worst Game Studied: Alabama (2021)
First Step Explosiveness: Ridgeway possesses a powerful first step that helps him generate power to become a disruptive interior defensive lineman. Ridgeway is able to use this first step to displace offensive linemen into the backfield. Ridgeway is not a quick player but his size combined with his power makes him a hassle to block for both centers and guards.
Flexibility: Even though Ridgeway couldn't be considered a fluid athlete in space, he is flexible enough to effectively do his job and sometimes be dominant. Ridgeway's game is centered around power and he can generate this power because he is able to sink his hips and get low into his stance in the leverage battle with an offensive lineman at the snap. Ridgeway is also athletic enough to reset his lower half when he’s fighting double teams to keep his base and power.
Hand Counters: As a run defender, Ridgeway has an array of hand counters that allow him to reset his hands and battle with offensive linemen. But Rudgeway can use improvement in his hand usage as a pass rusher. It will best serve Ridgeway as a pass rusher to add hand maneuvers that allow him to defeat offensive linemen with speed when rushing the passer.
Hand Power: Ridgeway has excellent power in his hands. When he shoots his hands, you can visibly see that he can jolt the upper body of offensive linemen backward, stopping them in their tracks. He can also control offensive linemen with his hands when he has them properly locked-out to play the run.
Run Defending: Ridgeway's combination of size, power, and natural instincts make him a good run defender. At Arkansas, he plays primarily 0-tech, where he has to constantly take on double teams and he does this at a high level. Ridgeway does a great job at holding the line of scrimmage and preventing offensive linemen from working to the second level, keeping his linebackers free to make plays. In single-block situations, he can properly lock and shed defenders to make the tackle.
Effort/Motor: Ridgeway plays the 0-tech position at Arkansas, which is a position that can take a toll on a player both mentally and physically. But when RIdgeway is on the field, he brings it every snap. Whether it's taking on double teams or making an effort to bring down the ball-carrier from the backside of the play, Ridgeway gives good effort.
Football IQ: This player plays his position with a high level of understanding. He can quickly decipher between when the offensive lineman is trying to run block him or is pass setting him. He always seems to make the right play and play blocks properly when playing the run.
Lateral Mobility: This player has limited lateral mobility. The majority of this player's game is centered around anchoring in the middle of the defense and he does little lateral movement. His limited lateral mobility also affects his ability to rush the passer.
Core/ Functional Strength: At the point of attack, Ridgeway shows good functional strength, which makes it hard to move him off the line of scrimmage. Ridgeway is rarely moved by one offensive lineman and usually needs two guys to be able to displace him. He also looks to have a strong core in the way he can contour his body and adjust to the different angled blocks that offensive linemen approach him with.
Versatility: Ridgeway’s game is rooted in brute strength and stopping the run, which limits his versatility. I believe that this player has a dominant run-stopping trait but lacks the overall athleticism to be considered an interior pass rusher. This player's best value will come as a run-stopping interior defensive lineman.
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 75.00/100 (Third Round Value)
Crabbs Grade: 76.00/100
Marino Grade: 75.50/100
Harris Grade: 74.00/100
Sanchez Grade: 75.00/100
Weissman Grade: 74.50/100
Parson Grade: 75.00/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Wide-bodied NT with ballerina feet when deploying his spin move at close to 340 pounds. Quick first step that stalls out in a hurry but will threaten the line of scrimmage with it often. Gets low and anchors like champ against doubles. Good block-defeater in the run game and he will hustle from the backside to make tackles. Works hard to get around a blockers edge and will push the pocket. Well-rounded NT with high-end glimpses of new-age athleticism.
Weaknesses:
Good, not overwhelming power. Teams that get him going lateral often can limit his impact. Fair amount of his rushes are high and don't have much plan to them. Shorter arms that most NTs his size.
Accolades:
2021: Fourth-most run-stops in FBS (24)
2021: Career-high 9.5 TFL
The four-star recruit from Mobile, Alabama, played in five games off the bench as a true freshman in 2017 (five tackles) and in 10 contests as a key reserve in 2018 (23 tackles, four for loss with 1.5 sacks). Farrell started three games for the 2019 national champions, posting 46 tackles, seven for loss with three sacks in 15 games played. Farrell initially opted out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns but returned in September to start six of 10 contests for the Tigers (25 tackles, 2.5 for loss with one sack). In his final season, Farrell recorded 45 tackles in 12 starts with a career-high 9.5 tackles for loss with two sacks, before opting out of the team's bowl game to prepare for the NFL draft. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 5
NFL Comparison
D.J. Reader
Overview
Nose tackle prospect with a well-earned reputation for making it hard on blockers to do their job in the run game. Farrell has seen personal maturity and development in his play that allowed him to consistently bully opponents as a physical force in the middle in 2021, but he tested poorly at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine. He will be somewhat tethered to home base but could help in upgrading a leaky run defense. Farrell is a two-gapping nose with Day 3 value.
Strengths
Very rugged football player in the trenches.
Combines strength with skill to defeat the block.
Surprising snap quickness for his size.
Comes off the ball with low pads and excellent leverage.
Pure power to lift, displace and toss interior blockers.
Plants roots and fights off down blocks and double teams.
Able to peekaboo for running back as two-gapper.
Strong hands and twitchy upper body to shed.
Clears interior rush edge with extremely heavy slap.
Weaknesses
Only a running-down player at the next level.
Needs to convert bad weight to better weight.
Tardy lateral movement gets him reached/sealed versus zone.
Pads get too tall on the move.
Limited range and tackle radius.
Tightness causes missed tackles in tight quarters.
Bull-rush is a little too gradual.
Neil Farrell Jr. is a senior defensive lineman for the LSU Tigers. As a Tiger, Farrell has spent most of his career as a rotational player. This past year was Farrell’s first year being a consistent starter and his production matched. Farrell finished the year with more than 40 tackles. As an interior defensive lineman, Farrell showcases good athleticism and can beat offensive lineman with his quick first step. Farrell also shows that he has the functional athleticism to flow sideline to sideline. To be a productive NFL player, he needs to improve his ability to stop the run. Against the run, Farrell will occasionally get flushed out off the line of scrimmage. Farrell will need to improve his overall strength to become a reliable three-down defensive lineman in the NFL.
Ideal Role: Rotational interior pass rush lineman
Scheme Fit: Attacking 4-3 scheme
FILM EVALUATION
Written by Keith Sanchez
Games watched: Florida (2021), Ole Miss (2021), Alabama (2021), Arkansas (2021)
Best Game Studied: Ole Miss (2021)
Worst Game Studied: Arkansas (2021)
First Step Explosiveness: Farrell has good explosiveness at the snap. When he can time the snap right, he can quickly shoot the gap and get upfield to get pressure. At LSU, they take advantage of Farrell’s quickness and run him on stunts and twists to take advantage of his athleticism and ability to get upfield quickly.
Flexibility: Farrell seems to be fluid in his movements. He has good reactionary athleticism that allows him to try and work counter moves. Farrell looks to be confident in his agile movements when rushing the passer and will attempt spin moves to defeat offensive lineman.
Hand Counters: Farrell has active hands but he doesn’t use them effectively. Watching Farrell, he uses his hands to attempt swim moves and arm moves but they are inconsistent in their effectiveness. When using his hands, Farrell can use work on the timing of his hand counters to improve the overall effectiveness of them.
Hand Power: Part of Farrell’s ineffectiveness in his hands is his lack of overall power. In the run game, Farrell struggles to control offensive linemen because of the lack of strength in his hands to stabilize them. When he strikes offensive linemen, there doesn’t appear to be any power in those punches to shock offensive linemen and affect their ability to work upfield.
Run Defending: As a run defender, Farrell has both positive and negative aspects of his game. Farrell is athletic enough to run with offensive linemen on zone stretch plays an maintain integrity. But on power run plays, Farrell offers little resistance. He is often flushed out of the play and displaced three-plus yards off the ball.
Effort (Motor): Farrell shows to be a high-effort player at times but he is inconsistent. There are times when he will chase plays 10-plus yards down the field and other times where he gives little effort to chase ball-carriers. It would benefit Farrell’s overall value if he can play with a consistently high motor.
Football IQ: It appears that Farrell has good knowledge of playing the defensive line position he is just inconsistent in his discipline. In the run game, instead of maintaining gap integrity, he feels that he can’t beat an offensive lineman at the point of attack and will abandon that gap and look elsewhere to get penetration. Farrell appears to be a freestyle player and doesn’t play within the defense.
Lateral Mobility: Farrell appears to have good lateral mobility. When defending the run he has the fluidity to move laterally along the line of scrimmage. Farrell shows that he can redirect and change direction of his flow to react to the ball carriers when they change direction.
Functional Strength: Farrell shows to have limited functional strength. When playing the run he will get displaced off the line of scrimmage because he isn't strong enough to hold the point of attack. Farrell needs to improve both his lower body strength and upper body strength in order to be an effective run stopper.
Versatility: Farrell appears to have limited versatility as a player. As an interior defensive lineman I don't believe he has the strength to fulfill the roles of a 3-4 DE. Farrell should play in a 4-3 scheme that allows their defensive lineman to shoot gaps.
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 67.50/100 (Seventh Round Value)
Crabbs Grade: 68.50/100
Marino Grade: 70.00/100
Sanchez Grade: 65.50/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Butler played primarily as a 3 technique for the Vols, with the ability to play on the edge as well. He had five sacks and 23 hurries in 2021, in part because of his non-stop motor and good hand usage at the snap. He often played much bigger than 297 frame.
Weaknesses:
He can sometimes get taken for a ride in the run game when he doesn't stay low, and he'll struggle to disengage and get off blocks. He can disappear for stretches and ends up on the ground a lot, where he's helpless to make a play on the ball.
Accolades:
2021: 726 snaps on the year, most among SEC players
2021: Set career highs in tackles (47), TFL (8.5) and sacks (5.0)
Coming out of Garner Senior High School in Raleigh, Butler was a four-star recruit who expected to make an impact on the Volunteers right away. He played in eight games as a true freshman (four tackles) then came off the bench again for nine contests in 2018 (13 tackles, one for loss). Butler earned more playing time as a junior, starting four of 13 games (45 tackles, three for loss with 2.5 sacks, two pass breakups). He started all 10 games of the 2020 season and posted 43 tackles, three for loss with two sacks. In 2021, Butler set career-highs with 47 tackles, 8.5 for loss and five sacks in 13 contests (12 starts). He was also named a second-team Academic All-American by sports information directors. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Rounds 4-5
NFL Comparison
Byron Cowart
Overview
Defensive lineman who isn't a pure one-gapper or two-gapper, but has enough play strength and athleticism to operate in either capacity. Butler plays more stoutly than his top-heavy frame might indicate. His blend of body control and grit allow him to reverse course against block sustain and get back into the play. He's not overly explosive up the field but has enough edge rush and secondary effort to become a nuisance from time to time. Butler should step into a rotational role early in his career before competing for a spot as a starting three-technique for a 4-3 unit.
Strengths
Put impressive tape together against Alabama.
Plays with athletic movements and bend.
Capable to stack and shed versus single blocks.
Range and motor will have him in on the action.
Lateral quickness to capture the edge and disrupt zone blocks.
Maintains gap integrity with steady base through lateral engagements.
Secondary effort makes him tough to sustain and finish for blockers.
Athletic ability creates rush opportunities on twists.
Charges in to force anchor and then works to an edge.
Rushes with body control and good change of direction.
Weaknesses
Lacks desired girth in his lower body.
Failed to make much impact against Georgia's mauling front.
Balance can waiver when his base narrows.
Needs a better feel and take-on against edge blocks.
Lack of separation length shows up at times.
Average upfield burst to set the tone with his rush.
Needs to get to his counters more quickly.
Matthew Butler took advantage of the extra year of eligibility due to the COVID pandemic and returned to Tennessee for his “super senior” season and delivered the best season of his career. Butler is an academic standout that is viewed as a leader within the Tennessee program. Butler is a quick, flexible, and technically-refined defensive lineman that plays with terrific fundamentals. His pads are low, his hands are always busy, and he is urgent in everything he does on the field while also playing with good control. His best moments come when he gets the opportunity to shoot gaps or run a two-man game, taking advantage of his quickness, motor, and hand technique. The Volunteers played him at every spot along the defensive line and he has appeal at three- and five-technique in the NFL. When it comes to limitations, Butler’s modest length and mass standout. While he plays with good technique, Butler doesn’t have much margin for error given his lack of length and he has to work overtime to clear his pads. And while he wasn’t easily rooted out of his run fit in college, holding up against NFL offensive linemen presents a new set of challenges to remain stout against the run. Butler has the makings of a quality rotational defensive lineman at the next level in a defense that is multiple up front to take advantage of his versatility and enable him to shoot gaps.
Ideal Role: Rotational three- and five-technique
Scheme Fit: Multi-front
FILM EVALUATION
Written by Joe Marino
Games watched: Pittsburgh (2021), Georgia (2021), Ole Miss (2021), Alabama (2021)
Best Game Studied: Alabama (2021)
Worst Game Studied: Georgia (2021)
First Step Explosiveness: Butler has above average first-step quickness and it’s a big reason why he has found success shooting gaps and working to the edges of blockers. He anticipates the snap well and fires out with low pads, quickly eating up ground. He is controlled and coordinated throughout his initial steps.
Flexibility: Butler features good flexibility and it shows up with his ability to slip through gaps and around the edges of blocks. The Vols get him going on twists and stunts and he has an impressive ability to corner while carrying speed through tight turns. Some of his reps in the Ole Miss (2021) and Alabama (2021) games really showcased that ability to work inside-out and turn the corner.
Hand Counters: Butler’s hands are busy throughout every rep and are never tardy to activate. In my exposures, I saw effective usage of a cross/chop, club/rip, and push/pull moves with regularity. He only has modest length, which creates some challenges with getting off blocks and clearing his hands, but he battles and keeps his hands battling with urgency through the whistle.
Hand Power: Butler has sudden and urgent hands with good pop behind them. With that said, he doesn’t have the type of power behind his strikes that will consistently overwhelm and stun blockers but he has enough. I love the urgency and intent behind the way he activates his hands.
Run Defending: Butler’s quickness, leverage, urgency, and active hands lead to effective run defense. With that said, his modest length and compact build presents some concerns when forecasting him to the next level. His best moments come as a single-gap penetrator, although he holds his own when tasked with resetting the line of scrimmage, stacking blocks, and allowing the second level to get downhill. I don’t envision Butler being a standout run defender in the NFL but there are ways he can be effective and not present a liability.
Effort (Motor): While there are certainly times that Butler finds some extra juice on money downs, his effort on a snap-to-snap basis is consistently outstanding. He competes throughout every rep to beat blocks and he is aggressive in pursuit. His competitive toughness shines on tape.
Football IQ: Butler is an experienced player and it shows when watching him play. His play recognition and processing skills are terrific. In addition, there is a commitment to playing with good leverage, technique, and fundamentals that is apparent in his game.
Lateral Mobility: Butler has easy movement skills in all directions. He has no issues working up and down the line of scrimmage in pursuit and stringing out run plays. He flows with urgency and without restriction in pursuit. I also love his ability to redirect and work back across blocks and cross the face of his opponent.
Core/Functional Strength: Butler plays with outstanding leverage and his build is fairly compact which combines together to showcase sufficient core strength. He isn’t easily rooted out of his gap but there is a notable amount of effort required for Butler to stay committed to his technique and fundamentals to hold up at the point of attack. He has an awareness of his skill set and understands how to execute accordingly.
Versatility: Butler is a balanced defender, capable of making plays against the run and pass. Tennessee plays him anywhere from the nose to a five-technique with single-gap and two-gap responsibilities. At the next level, he has appeal as a three-technique to a five-technique, although his modest length isn’t ideal for a majority of his snaps being played at the five.
Prospect Comparison: Sheldon Day (2016 NFL Draft, Jacksonville Jaguars)
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 73.50/100 (Fourth Round Value)
Crabbs Grade: 72.50/100
Marino Grade: 73.50/100
Sanchez Grade: 74.50/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Twitched-up interior defensive lineman who can also line up as a 4i or 5 technique. Lateral mobility and sideline-to-sideline skills to run down the ball carrier, but also the quickness to shoot gaps with regularly. Active hands at snap and consistently uses them well to win early in rep. High-motor that won't allow him to give up on a play if he gets stymied off the snap. Incredibly disruptive and it's hard to find examples of him not winning the rep.
Weaknesses:
Had surgery to repair a torn ACL last November, and has only played in five games the last two seasons after opting out in 2020 because of COVID. There aren't a lot of holes in Davis' game; he just needs to stay healthy.
Accolades:
2021: AAC Defensive Player of the Week once in five games before missing rest of season with injury
30 bench-press reps at Pro Day would have ranked T-fourth at combine
Davis stayed in-state to play for the Knights after earning first-team all-state honors as a senior linebacker at West Florida Tech. He added weight early in his UCF career, though, playing in 10 games as a reserve defensive lineman his redshirt freshman season (17 tackles, 2.5 for loss). Davis started the team's final nine games in 2019 (27 tackles, eight for loss with three sacks in 13 appearances) before opting out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19. He started the first five games of 2021 (17 tackles, 4.5 for loss with one sack) but missed the second half of the year with a torn ACL. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Rounds 5-7
NFL Comparison
Trysten Hill
Overview
One-gapping three-technique with terrific snap quickness that creates early advantages with the potential to become full-scale disruptions. Davis is a former linebacker with above-average bend, foot quickness and athleticism to create mismatches for lumbering guards. He needs more schooling and refinement as both a run defender and pass rusher to become capable of competing against the spectrum of talent he will see on the next level. He hasn't played much football over the last two seasons, but his explosive flashes could foreshadow a bright upside as a disruptive, upfield talent.
Strengths
Experience at multiple spots along the defensive front.
Bendy and athletic for an interior defender.
Gets off the snap with menacing quickness.
Gets skinny into gaps for backfield disruption.
Pivots and swivels for quick block dismissal.
Rangy with a big closing burst to the ball.
Explodes into blocker for early pocket push.
Quick feet help attack both edges of protection.
Uses slap with hip flip to climb over the top.
Weaknesses
Hasn't played much football over last two seasons.
Opted out of 2020 and suffered season-ending injury in October 2021.
Lacks proportional build of typical three-technique.
Narrow base gets him displaced by down blocks.
Erratic balance through contact.
Requires more go-to moves and counters as rusher.
Conditioning issues show up in the second half of games.
Tall pad level lowers success rate of inside counters.
Sources Tell Us
"A team needs to get him on a good nutrition and conditioning plan so he can be a 60-minute pro. That’s the next step, because he’s got plenty of talent." -- Scouting director for an AFC team
Draft Network - NA
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Uwazurike was a first team All-Big 12 and second team Academic All-Big 12, and he can line up anywhere along defensive line and be a problem. He has long arms, long legs and doesn't look like he's 320 -- more like a 275-pound defensive end with both quickness and strength. He's so strong, in fact, that his bull rush is a big problem for interior offensive linemen, even giving Iowa center Tyler Linderbaum all he could handle. He's so quick for his size that he has the twitch, coupled with the pass-rush moves, to beat offensive tackles off the snap and get into the backfield.
Weaknesses:
He can struggle at times to disengage with offensive tackles with rushing off the edge in passing situations, and for all the big-play ability he possesses, he can go stretches without having an impact on the game -- he'll need to be more consistent in the NFL.
Accolades:
2021: first-team All-Big 12
46 career starts over four years
Eyioma Uwazurike (pronounced ee-OH-MA ew-wha-zah-REE-kay), a Detroit native, played in 13 games as a reserve his redshirt freshman season in 2017 (16 tackles, four for loss). He played well as a sophomore but missed four games with a groin injury (27 tackles, five for loss, in nine games with eight starts). Uwazurike got on NFL scouts' radars in 2019 as he received honorable mention All-Big 12 notice by posting 32 tackles, 5.5 for loss with 1.5 sacks in 13 starts for the Cyclones. He was an honorable mention selection again in 2020 as a 12-game starter (27 tackles, eight for loss with three sacks). In 2021, league coaches voted him to the first team after outstanding play in 13 games with 10 starts (42 tackles, 12 for loss with nine sacks). -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 4
NFL Comparison
Corey Williams
Overview
Uwazurike's combination of size, length and athleticism makes him an intriguing defensive line projection at the next level. He has played every defensive line position in both odd and even fronts and was productive doing so. Early glances at tape show a player with subpar pad level and inconsistent scraps at the point of attack, but a closer look shows the technique improved and he received more reps inside at the nose. He's an active pass rusher with lively hand usage and the ability to go from an edge attack to a straight bull rush in the middle of the rep. He will appeal to 3-4 teams at either nose or five-technique.
Strengths
Accomplished four-year starter.
Rare combination of top-end size and length.
Versatility to play up and down the line.
Played with better technique as two-gapper over second half of season.
Able to battle at the point or drive into gaps for disruption.
Athletic rusher who probes and stays busy throughout the rep.
Forces linemen to keep feet moving, which opens opportunities.
Can go from finesse to bull rusher at any point during the rep.
Slap-swim is a winning move for him.
Finishes the sack with full use of his length.
Weaknesses
Upfield burst is just average.
Tends to be a little lumbering in his lateral movements.
Allows his pad level to get away from him on the move.
Has a hard time shuffling and staying square with the block.
Below-average short-area twitch for tackling.
Rush hands are heavy but lack suddenness.
High center of gravity limits success of his counters.
Sources Tell Us
"Their coaches rave about the way he's overcome personal adversity and become more mature." -- Scouting director for AFC team
Eyioma Uwazurike is a former 3-star recruit from the state of Michigan. Uwazurike was a part of the 2016 recruiting class, so that makes him one of the older prospects in this draft. Early on in his career at Iowa State, Uwazurike saw little playing time and was used primarily as a reserve. The 2020 season was the first season where Uwazurike was named the starter for the entire season. Going into the 2021 season, Uwazurike was primed for a big year and he had one. He was named First-Team All-Big-12 and recorded nine sacks, proving to be Uwazurike's most productive season by far. As a prospect Uwazurike is a big, powerful defensive lineman that can generate movement. He is best when he has a predetermined stunt or slant called and he can use his quickness to shoot gaps. Early on, Uwazurike can contribute as a player who disrupts the run.
Games watched: Oklahoma (2021), Oklahoma State (2021), Clemson ( 2021) Texas (2021)
Best Game Studied: Texas (2021)
Worst Game Studied: Oklahoma (2021)
First Step Explosiveness: This player possesses a quick first step, he is just inconsistent in his usage of it. When he times the snap right, he can get good penetration and displace offensive linemen into the backfield. But when he is late, he doesn't have a presence and is often a nonfactor on plays.
Flexibility: Uwazurike has flexibility issues that affect his overall athleticism. Uwazurike shows lower-body stiffness that affects his ability to play with good leverage. Oftentimes, Uwazurike plays highs and allows offensive linemen to get under his pads and move him off the ball because they have better leverage than him.
Hand Counters: Uwazurike has to improve vastly in this department to become successful on the next level. He has very long arm movement that offensive linemen are easily able to predict. He tries an arm-over maneuver, but he exposes his ribs and often takes shots there that slow his ability to get upfield. He needs to improve on the overall quickness and usage when he is in hand combat.
Hand Power: His hands have very little impact on offensive linemen. When he decided to shoot his hands into the chest plate of offensive linemen, it didn’t create any movement. His lack of hand usage also showed in his ability to disengage, as he didn't seem to have the hand strength to firmly grab offensive linemen and shed them in a quick manner.
Run Defending: This player has an unorthodox approach to his run-stopping technique. He relies on using his frame to thrust into the offensive lineman then takes steps backward to create separation and get arm extension. This allows him to get the space he needs to find the ball-carrier and disengage when he needs to.
Effort/Motor: Uwazurike has a solid overall motor. He is willing to chase the ball-carrier down the field and chase plays backside. At times, Uwazurike is rotated out of the game, which could be an indicator of his need to improve his overall conditioning.
Football IQ: He has a good presence and overall knowledge of the offensive line. He can diagnose run blocks and understand what leverage offensive linemen are trying to get on him
Lateral Mobility: Moving laterally is not his strong suit and at times he struggles. He has lower-body stiffness that prevents him from stretching out zone runs and keeping his integrity. He also struggles to redirect in the open field to adjust to ball-carriers changing direction. He is a one-flow player.
Core Functional/Strength: This is a trait in Uwazurike’s game that can use improvement. When playing the run, he is inconsistent in his effectiveness due to what looks like a lack of overall strength. The lack of strength in his core shows when he is battling in the trenches and Uwazurike ends up on the ground due to his inability to torque his body and stay in a position of strength.
Versatility: Uwazurike has versatility in the fact that I believe he can play in both a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme. With that being said, he would only be considered as a defensive lineman. He has limited athleticism that would prevent him from being effective on the edge.
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 70.67/100 (Fifth Round Value)
Crabbs Grade: 71.50/100
Marino Grade: 70.50/100
Sanchez Grade: 70.00/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Somewhat of a modern-day NT. Not wide-bodied. Long and athletic and carries nearly 330 pounds extremely well. College defense asked him to stunt way more often than he will in the NFL. Flashed a nice swim and when allowed to get upfield, his bull rush was typically effective. Good balance to fight through lateral blocks. Large tackling radius. His long arms certainly help dispatch blockers in the run game.
Weaknesses:
Hand-work is not high-caliber. Not a super-gifted block defeater. Wasn't overly productive as a pass rusher.
Accolades:
43 career games played (25 starts)
2021: Set career highs in tackles (27) and TFL (5.0)
Otito Ogbonnia (pronounced oh-TEE-toe oh-BONE-yuh) has not only played well for the Bruins' football team, but he also threw shot put for the track and field squad in 2018-19. He even won the event at the 2019 Pan American U20 Championships in Costa Rica. The two-time all-district pick in football from Houston made a quick impact on the gridiron for UCLA, starting six of 12 games played as a freshman in 2018 (21 tackles). Ogbonnia started five of 12 contests the next season (12 tackles, two for loss with one sack) and two of seven games played in 2020 (16 tackles, 1.5 sacks, two pass breakups). He was a full-time starter in 2021, setting career highs with 30 tackles, five for loss with two sacks, in 12 contests. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 5
Overview
Interior lineman who plays with heavy hands to pop and separate for an early advantage, but heavy feet that prevent him from doing enough with it. He can handle some of the heavy lifting, but not all. Ogbonnia will flash as a one-technique or tilted nose but lacks the pad level and parking brake to hold it down as a 3-4 nose. He has very average quickness and does not profile as a mismatch defender. He is not an NFL pass-rush threat. He had splashy moments at the Senior Bowl and has a shot as a backup 4-3 nose but could offer some position flexibility for teams running varied fronts.
Strengths
Dense body type with proportional limbs and thickness.
Good worker with high football character.
Talented shot-putter with explosive hips.
Length and strength to set an edge and spill the run.
Fires punch through blocker's pads for point-of-attack separation.
Slides and swims into the A-gap for quick win.
Uses forceful rip power through the edge as rusher.
Possesses adequate bull-rush potential.
Weaknesses
Just a single season as a full-time starter.
Struggles to maintain lowered pad level.
Early movements are too elongated.
Lacks agility and plays with heavy feet.
Base fails to stay rooted to the ground.
Has trouble maintaining balance on the move.
Fairly easy to elude if he finds the pocket.
Otito Ogbonnia is a senior who aligns as an IDL for the Bruins’ hybrid-like defense. He has been shaded over the center, aligned in a “0,” and also aligned in a 5-tech. He is a sufficient-level athlete with regards to lateral movement and mobility. In the passing game, he is predominantly a bull rusher who lacks an array of tools in his pass-rush arsenal. He can adequately loop or stunt but doesn't generate consistent pressure on passing downs. In the run game, he is more effective. He is very strong at the point of attack and it's extremely hard to move him off his spot with a single block. He has very good functional strength to disengage, but moving laterally isn't a strength. He is most effective when he comes off the ball with good pad level and maximizes his functional strength. He's not explosive and can be late off the ball at times as a result.
Ideal Role: Early-down rotational defender
Scheme Fit: He can play in an even or odd front
FILM EVALUATION
Written by Drae Harris
Games watched: USC (2021), CAL (2021), ASU (2021), Arizona (2021)
Best Game Studied: Arizona (2021)
Worst Game Studied: USC (2021)
First Step Explosion: He is a player that I would consider “stronger” as opposed to being classified as explosive. He lacks good get-off and can be late off the ball at times.
Flexibility: He isn’t the most flexible athlete. He can come off the ball and get his pad level higher than ideal. When this occurs, he doesn't maximize his good functional strength simply by not playing with good posture.
Hand Counter: He doesn’t counter well. However, the functional strength he has in his hands allows him to disengage from linemen. He has been predominantly a rusher who has relied on his power as opposed to technique.
Hand Power: He has good power in his hips and hands. He can hold the point of attack and is hard to move backward, especially with single blocks. He also shows the power in his hands to disengage.
Run Defending: He is better against the run than he is against the pass. He can use his girth to hold the point of attack and disengage to get to the football.
Effort: He's been inconsistent with his effort throughout the game. This may be due to conditioning. When plays are run away from him and are out of his vicinity, he can shut it down.
Football IQ: He displays good football IQ. He can hold the point, locate the football, and disengage. He needs to be more consistent getting off the ball, though.
Lateral Mobility: He has average lateral agility. He does a good job of holding the point and getting to the football. This is also evident when moving down the line when plays are out of his vicinity.
Core/Functional Strength: He displays good functional strength. He is stronger than he is explosive. However, his good power allows him to disengage.
Versatility: He lacks true positional versatility. He plays IDL and should remain there in an even or odd front scheme.
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 67.83/100 (Seventh Round Value)
Crabbs Grade: 67.50/100
Marino Grade: 66.00/100
Harris Grade: 70.00/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Interior defender with good size. Shows great grip strength. Draws double teams. Showed more speed and power at the Senior Bowl.
Weaknesses:
Inconsistent performer that could be a result of defensive scheme. Showed limited sack production despite playing at a lower level. Does not explode off the sack.
Accolades:
2021: Career highs in tackles (34) and TFL (5.5)
2021: All-Missouri Valley second-team
Johnson contributed early in his career with the Bears, starting nine times in 11 appearances as a redshirt freshman (18 tackles, three for loss with one sack) and sophomore (24 tackles, four for loss with 2.5 sacks, one blocked kick). The former football and wrestling star at Illinois' Plainfield South High School started seven of 11 games in 2019 (18 tackles) before doubling up on second-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference honors in 2020-21 (27 tackles, six for loss with 1.5 sacks, one blocked kick in 10 fall/spring games) and the fall of 2021 (43 tackles, 6.5 for loss with 1.5 sacks, two pass breakups, three blocked kicks). His father, also named Eric, earned All-MVFC honors himself at Illinois State before playing in the CFL and XFL. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 6
Overview
Strong performances at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and Senior Bowl practices have boosted Johnson's draft stock despite somewhat pedestrian tape. He has the build, strength and length to play as a defensive tackle or odd-front end. He flashes recovery strength to battle back against early disadvantages, but needs to get off the ball and into opponents more aggressively to create early advantages of his own. Johnson's week in Mobile gives him a chance to hear his name called during the draft.
Strengths
Solidly built with broad, proportional frame and good length.
Wealth of experience with 48 games under his belt.
Father was talented college football player.
Wrestling background helps core strength and leverage.
Displays ability to anchor and fight back versus single blocks.
Power to play under pads and stress blocker's base.
Potential to set a quality edge as two-gapper.
Flashes of hand violence in his rush.
Weaknesses
Play lacks consistent fire and intensity.
Disappointing rush production relative to college competition.
Missing go-to moves and counters.
Burst to close on quarterbacks is non-threatening.
Will need to improve feel and take-on against double teams.
Leans into contact at the point of attack.
Lacks knock-back explosiveness into first blow.
Draft Network - NA
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Davidson has the look of a prototypical NFL nose tackle with the added bonus that he logged four passes defended in 2021. He is stout at the point of attack, uses hands well, keeps heads up to find the ball carrier. He's also built low to the ground; has the athleticism to fight off cut blocks and consistently makes play on ball. He shows the ability to stand up double teams and has the lateral athleticism to make plays on perimeter.
Weaknesses:
He will occasionally struggle to get off blocks and maintain gap integrity as a result. And though he can push -- and occasionally collapse -- the pocket with a bull rush, he's not a pass rusher, nor should he be thought of as one. He won't rack up sacks, but he can be disruptive in backfield.
Accolades:
2021: Second-team All-Pac-12
Set career highs with 57 tackles and 6.5 TFL
Davidson was a first-team All-Arizona selection at Desert Ridge High School and planned on signing with Central Florida for the 2016 season. He did not enroll at UCF that fall and instead waited to sign with ASU for 2017. As a redshirt freshman in 2018, Davidson played in eight games as a reserve (10 tackles, 3.5 for loss with two sacks) before a fibula injury ended his season prematurely. He lost 25 pounds while rehabbing his leg, and the improved movement helped him start 12 of 13 contests in 2019 (51 tackles, 4.5 for loss with 1.5 sacks). Davidson started all four of the Sun Devils' games in 2020 (19 tackles, 1.5 for loss), and in 2021, Pac-12 coaches awarded him second-team all-league status as he excelled in 12 starts for ASU (57 tackles, 6.5 for loss, four pass breakups). He opted out of the team's bowl game to prepare for the NFL draft. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Round 7
Overview
Gap-stuffing nose tackle who plays with good strength to disrupt blocking from guard to guard. Davidson is an early-down run defender only, but he can be a handful to get blocked on those downs. He plays on a bulky, powerful base that helps absorb double teams with relative success and he has the upper-body strength to beat a single block. He needs to improve his hand command at the point of attack and learn to shed with better timing to help him finish more consistently. Davidson projects as a backup nose for odd or even fronts.
Strengths
Impressive bubble with wide, girthy base.
Good lateral quickness to challenge reach blocks.
Pops and shoves blocker to gain early traction.
Plays with adequate feel and response to down blocks.
Anchors quickly to slow double-team momentum.
Shows ability to stack or slide past blocker with hand usage.
Slides with lateral blocks, maintaining gap integrity.
Weaknesses
Could afford to turn some bad weight into good weight.
Needs to control and command the blocker in front of him.
Head-ducker who loses sight of the runner.
Needs better pad level for improved contact balance.
Early success in the rep fades and leads to lack of finish.
Comes off blocks too late to tackle.
Down-the-middle rush offers little threat.
D.J. Davidson is a sufficient-level athlete for a bigger young man, with sufficient agility and lateral mobility. In the passing game, he has sufficient value. He lacks good quickness to take advantage when he is shaded over a lineman. He is primarily a power rusher who can occasionally generate pressure by disengaging. In the run game, he is hard to move. He holds the point of attack against single blocks and double teams. He has good functional strength to disengage and get to the football. He has schematic versatility to play in an even or odd front, but will likely be most effective as an early-down player.
Ideal Role: Early-down rotational defender
Scheme Fit: He can play in an even or odd front
FILM EVALUATION
Written by Drae Harris
Games watched: USC (2021), CAL (2021), ASU (2021), Arizona (2021)
Best Game Studied: Arizona (2021)
Worst Game Studied: USC (2021)
First Step Explosion: He is strong but not explosive. His get-off is sufficient. He is not a twitchy athlete but can get off the ball for a bigger man.
Flexibility: He is overall flexibility is sufficient. He generally plays with good pad level. This helps him fight double teams when he keeps his pads low.
Hand Counter: Using his hands to counter is not a strength of his game. After using his power rush, he should have the functional strength to disengage and get to the football.
Hand Power: He has good power in his hands. He does a good job holding the point of attack and is hard to move with single blocks. He can disengage and find the football.
Run Defending: He has more value on early downs as a run defender at this stage.
Effort: He's been inconsistent with his effort throughout the game. This may be due to conditioning. When plays are run away from him and are out of his vicinity, he can shut it down.
Football IQ: He displays good football IQ. He can locate the ball-carrier while he is engaged. He isn't fooled often by misdirection plays.
Lateral Mobility: He has average lateral agility. This is evident after he disengages and finds the ball-carrier. When plays are out of his vicinity he can sufficiently get through trash to locate the ball.
Core/Functional Strength: He displays good functional strength. His good power allows him to disengage and get to the football.
Versatility: He lacks true positional versatility. He plays IDL and should remain there in an even or odd front scheme. He has limited value as an end in any front.
SCOUT GRADES
Harris Grade: 69.00/100 (Sixth Round Value)
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Well-rounded defensive lineman who played out of position and in the wrong role in his final season in colleg, mainly in a two-point stance near the guard or tackle. He has the burst and speed to play the flashier three technique position. He two-gaps well because of his experience doing it, and has the natural power in his hands to move blockers. Possesses enough athleticism to threaten across the line of scrimmage on stretch plays or rollouts. High-ish floor, mid-tier ceiling type of prospect, but he needs to be freed on the inside more often.
Weaknesses:
More of a pocket climber than someone who will win quickly with a planned out pass-rush move. Bench-press ability is there but not a legitimate people-mover
Accolades:
Two-time All-Pac-12 second team
William V. Campbell Trophy finalist (best combination of academics, community service and on-field performance)
Earl Thomas Booker IV was considered one of the top 20 recruits nationally at defensive end while at Gilman High School in Maryland, where he was a first-team all-state pick, a track team captain (won a state title in shot put) and senior class vice president. At Stanford, he contributed as a true freshman in 2018, starting three of 13 contests and racking up 28 stops, four for loss with 3.5 sacks, one interception and two pass breakups. Booker garnered honorable mention All-Pac-12 notice as a sophomore in 2019, accumulating 50 tackles, 8.5 for loss with four sacks and three pass breakups in 12 games (six starts). He was a team captain and second-team all-conference pick in 2020 (21 tackles, three for loss with one sack), tying for fifth in the FBS with two blocked kicks, and 2021 (59 tackles, five for loss with 1.5 sacks). In 2020, Booker helped found CardinalBLCK (Brilliance, Leadership, Community and Knowledge) as a safe space for Black student-athletes. He was a finalist for the 2021 William V. Campbell Award, also known as the academic Heisman, and the Senior CLASS Award for excellence on and off the field. Thomas' father played football at the University of Wisconsin. -- by Chad Reuter
Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Rounds 5-6
Overview
Defensive tackle with pretty good flashes but a lack of consistency that can be frustrating to watch. Booker has a thick frame and pretty good upper-body power but is unable to plant a post leg and hold his ground against edge pressure or double teams. He's strong enough to punch and separate but arm length might be the culprit in his inability to rid himself of blocks on a consistent basis. He's a decent athlete with some rush potential and could be a rotational player for a team employing multiple fronts.
Strengths
Team captain and three-year starter.
Good lower-body thickness from belt to boots.
Powerful hands to punch into full extension.
Able to pull blocker from side to side to find football.
Active lateral feet to get to more tackle tries.
Possesses spin counter for when rush stalls.
Slide quickness to work across the gaps.
Good athletic ability for a big man.
Weaknesses
Two sacks in his last 18 games.
Occasional struggles as play finisher.
Lack of flexion sees him stick longer in his rush.
No hand counters to lean on in second phase of the rush.
Punch hands come in a little wide.
Needs to feel double teams sooner.
Double teams and down blocks move him out of the gap.
Shed timing and success is below average.
Stanford’s Thomas Booker is a versatile defensive lineman who can be a disruptive player versus the run and the pass. Booker is a four-year contributor for the Cardinal, playing a variety of roles. He has aligned all around the defensive front, playing anything from 0-technique all the way to 9-technique. He is a good overall athlete with good lateral mobility and change of direction. In the passing game, Booker flashes an excellent first step to get upfield and stress offensive linemen’s edges. He has good length and demonstrates above average hands when rushing the quarterback. Booker can win with a bull rush when converting speed to power and has a nonstop motor. In the running game, Booker primarily wins with quickness and by using his long arms to stack and shed off blocks. He isn’t the most stout at the point of attack and can get pushed back at times. His best roles will either come as a 3-technique in a 4-3 or a 5 or 4i in a 3-4. His versatility and disruptive upside will be attractive for evaluators, but his lack of top-end power and strength may limit his ability to be a full-time player at the next level.
Ideal Role: Developmental interior defensive lineman who can contribute in subpackages
Scheme Fit: Scheme Versatile
FILM EVALUATION
Written by Brentley Weissman
Games watched: UCLA (2021), USC (2021), ASU (2021), UCLA (2020)
Best Game Studied: UCLA (2021)
Worst Game Studied: ASU (2021)
First Step Explosiveness: Booker has excellent first-step quickness. He explodes off the ball and fires off low with good leverage. His quickness off the snap places a lot of stress on opposing offensive linemen and his upfield penetration is impressive as a rusher.
Flexibility: Booker has good flexibility and change of direction skills. He isn’t the type of player to corner and bend around the arc, but he has enough flexibility in his ankles to flatten and get to the quarterback. He has very good lateral agility in pursuit in the run game and he is very hard to shake in the open field.
Hand Counters: For a player who has played a ton of snaps in his collegiate career, Booker doesn’t utilize a ton of hand counters and secondary rush moves. Booker has quick hands and a firm punch but once his initial rush gets stalled he lacks the ability to pivot and too often relies on power. If Booker can continue to work on his hands and rush moves, his consistency as a rusher will only improve.
Hand Power: Booker has firm hands at the point of attack that often shock his opponent. He uses his length and hand power to keep his body clear while rushing and maintaining separation. While he lacks pure knock back power at the point of attack, his hand strength is more than serviceable.
Run Defending: Booker is an above average run defender who is at his best when he is shooting gaps with his quickness and length inside. When he is forced to attack double teams or set maintain gaps, he is oftentimes washed down the line of scrimmage and loses gap integrity as he simply doesn't have the anchor nor power to hold firm. He displays very good processing ability to read blocking schemes and has very good range working down the line.
Effort: Booker’s motor is always running and he plays the game the way it’s supposed to be played. When you watch Booker, there are plenty of times you’ll see him 20 yards down the field chasing the play and making the tackle. Additionally, as a pass rusher, he never stops fighting and will work to uncover through the whistle.
Football I.Q: A standout academic at Stanford, it is not surprising that Booker’s IQ translates well to the football field. He is quick to diagnose blocking schemes and is always in good position to avoid being trapped. He can sniff out screens and draws and takes very good angles to the football.
Lateral Mobility: For a man his size, Booker has very good lateral mobility. He flows down the line of scrimmage in pursuit and has excellent range. He is light on his feet and can change direction with ease. A multiple-sport athlete in high school, Booker’s lateral mobility and foot coordination are certainly strengths.
Core/Functional Strength: Booker has just above average strength at the point of attack. There are times you’ll see Booker come off the ball hard, fire his hands, extend his arms, and anchor against the run. But more often than not, Booker loses gap integrity in the run game simply because he gets pushed off the ball by stronger offensive linemen. He needs to continue to work on his strength and anchor if he is going to have a chance to succeed at the next level.
Versatility: Booker is a highly versatile player who has played multiple spots on the defensive front. He has played 0, 1, 3 4i, 5, and outside edge for Stanford and has done a good job at each spot. While he is a bit of a tweener in my eyes, lacking the explosive quickness to win off the edge consistently and lacking the stout anchor inside, the fact that he can play multiple spots should allow him to find a spot in a rotation early in his career.
Prospect Comparison: Willie Henry (2016 NFL Draft, Baltimore Ravens)
SCOUT GRADES
TDN Consensus: 72.60/100 (Fourth Round Value)
Crabbs Grade: 74.00/100
Marino Grade: 72.00/100
Harris Grade: 71.00/100
Sanchez Grade: 74.00/100
Weissman Grade: 72.00/100
Palmy - "Very few have the ability to truly excel regardless of system. For many the system is the difference between being just a guy or an NFL starter. Fact is, everyone is talented at this level."
Didn't realize how old Butler was. I like him, and maybe for a DT that helps him be ready faster with a more mature body, so not necessarily a knock, but more of a suprise.
Booker is a guy I had my eyes on, but reading through he seems like the whole is less than the sum of his parts, so to speak (in other words, good trait-by-trait write-ups, but mediocre/inconsistent overviews and summaries).
Still love Uwazurike on day 3.
Packer fan crush Eric Johnson "lacking fire" and having stronger all star performances than small school film is a bit concerning. Cooled on him a bit reading through this.
