Wednesday, December 19, 2018

2019 NFL Draft Defensive End Prospects

Defensive Ends (Zach Allen, Nick Bosa, Austin Bryant, Brian Burns, Jaylon Ferguson, Carl Granderson, Joe Jackson, Jalen Jelks, Montez Sweat, Chase Winovich):

DE Zach Allen:

NFL Combine 2019: The 10 prospects with the most on the line in Indianapolis (Zach Allen, EDGE/DL, Boston College:  Allen measured in at over 6-4 and 280 pounds with arms over 34 inches long at the Senior Bowl. He's a moose. And a rather polished one, with useful hand work, plenty of power, and flashes of scary bend around the corner at his size. Oh, and he checks the production box too with 30.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks over the past two seasons at Boston College. While Allen's fortunately dodged the J.J. Watt label that gets thrown around too often -- Watt was built in a football laboratory, and not everyone has that opportunity -- he's a similar player to the former Defensive Player of the Year.  Someone who did earn many Watt comparisons was Jaguars 2018 first-round selection Taven Bryan. Of course, he ultimately fell short of Watt's combine performance that looks like it's filled with typos, but the former Florida Gator left some good bench marks for Allen.  Allen is a bit smaller than Bryan and is more of an edge rusher first. But he'll want to at least approach some or most of those figures to land in Round 1.) (2-27-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2019-prospects-with-the-most-on-the-line-in-indianapolis/

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine (Down - Allen:  At the Senior Bowl, Allen showed that he is a strong and tough defender at the point of attack. However, he also illustrated that he has some limitations in terms of speed and athleticism. Allen also needs to work on developing more pass-rushing moves. Some teams think Allen would be a better fit as a second-round pick rather than a first-rounder, and many feel that he would be best as a five-technique defensive end in a 3-4 scheme.) (2-19-19):   http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_22.php

NFL combine 2019: Nick Bosa, Rashan Gary headline deep crop of EDGE players (Zach Allen, Boston College:  The Lions need an edge rusher, that's no secret, and they could make a push for Trey Flowers in free agency because of it. But if they can't land Flowers, perhaps a Flowers-type player could interest them in the draft. There are a lot of comparisons between the two. At 6-5 and 285 pounds, Allen can rush from across the front. He also has a high motor -- he once played 107 snaps against Wake Forest, according to ProFootballFocus -- and played for current Lions defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni at Boston College.) (2-19-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/02/03a3818f381488/nfl-combine-2019-joey-bosa-rashan-gary-headline-deep-crop-of-edge-players-.html

2019 Combine Preview: Edge rusher (Zach Allen - Best trait: Motor. Allen shows relentless effort to get to the passer and ball carriers. Has a good football IQ to go along with NFL size. He had double-digit tackles for loss in three straight seasons, and recorded 100 total tackles as a junior.  Concern: His arms are on the short side, and he seems to be more of an effort player than one with pure athletic traits.  Skinny: A productive college player who probably won’t impress teams with his athletic traits at the Combine, but watch his tape and he’s a player teams love to have on the roster because of the effort and production.) (2-15-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2019-combine-preview-edge-rusher

Lions draft: Which defender to take in Round 1? (Second Round - DE Zach Allen, Boston College:  Allen didn’t have huge sack numbers at B.C., but he plays all over the defensive line and he spent two years with Lions defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni in college.) (2-5-19):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/02/05/detroit-lions-2019-nfl-draft-prospects/2776240002/

2019 Senior Bowl: Thursday Practice Report: North Team (Every year at the Senior Bowl, there are prospects who have a slow start to the week, but improve and end in the week playing well. That was the case for Boston College defensive end Zach Allen. He had an underwhelming on Tuesday, but he was much better Thursday, flashing the form that made him one of the better defensive ends in college football over the past couple of seasons. Allen had some good bull rushes in the one-on-ones to get wins. He also had a nice speed to power rush to work through an offensive tackle and get a sack. In the team scrimmage, Allen read a play well to get a pressure and possibly a sack. While Allen did not light up the Senior Bowl, his week of practice should not hurt him significantly.) (1-24-19):  http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2019practice3.php

2019 SENIOR BOWL: DAY 3 NORTH PRACTICE (Boston College’s Zach Allen has been playing both inside and outside of the tackle this week, but he has yet to really flash a first-round splash play. Often, he is attempting to bend the edge in one-on-ones and offensive tackles simply let him slow churn and run himself out of the play.) (1-24-19):  http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2019-senior-bowl-day-3-north-practice-notes

Senior Bowl: North Practice Report (Boston College’s Zach Allen — a projected first-round pick — was overshadowed by a player in his own position group. On Tuesday, Texas’ Charles Omenihu was able to get off blocks and make his presence felt more than Allen.) (1-23-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/senior-bowl-north-practice-report-d4naSzJe00eQz039seHOgw/

Defensive end Zach Allen loved playing for Pasqualoni at Boston College (1-23-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/defensive-end-zach-allen-loved-playing-for-pasqualoni-at-boston-college

How Detroit Lions DC Paul Pasqualoni influenced DE Zach Allen (1-23-19):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/01/23/boston-college-zach-allen-detroit-lions-paul-pasqualoni/2652070002/

Senior Bowl: Saunders, Wren wow Tuesday (Boston College's Zach Allen, wearing No. 44 this week, had a collection of wins in one-on-ones thanks to swim and swipe moves he put on film often in the past two seasons. There was plenty of power to his rushes too, which isn't shocking for a 280-pounder.) (1-22-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-senior-bowl-khalen-saunders-renell-wren-shine-on-tuesday-daniel-jones-drew-lock-have-mixed-showing/

2019 SENIOR BOWL: DAY 1 NORTH PRACTICE NOTES (Along with McCoy, Wisconsin guard Beau Benzchawel disappointed today. At right guard, he was beaten inside by Boston College’s Zach Allen) (1-22-19):  http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2019-senior-bowl-day-1-north-practice-notes

Senior Bowl Buzz - Monday Morning (I am higher than most on defensive end Zach Allen, and I spoke at length with Chuck Smith, the Atlanta Falcons’ second-round pick in 1992 and an All Pro selection in 1997, as he’s been training Allen in the lead-up to the Senior Bowl and the combine. Smith told me Allen may not test well, but he considers Allen a great football player who will develop into a dominant three-down defender at the next level.) (1-22-19):  http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-buzz-monday-morning

2019 Senior Bowl preview: Edge Defenders (Allen was a First-Team All-ACC selection in 2018. He finished this past season on a promising note, amassing 61 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, seven passes defensed, 6.5 sacks and one interception.  Allen is impressive with his power, athleticism, hand violence and a motor that always runs hot. Allen is a disciplined player, always cognizant of his gap and contain responsibilities, where he’s a reliable edge setter.  He has the lateral agility to win to the inside or counter off his initial pass rush move. Allen possesses long arms and a strong upper body. He shows an initial pop on contact and violent hands to shed blocks.  His lack of flexibility and speed to bend the angle is a slight concern. He does have the versatility to play inside or outside, and we will see what ways he’s used in Mobile.) (1-21-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/01/21/2019-senior-bowl-preview-edge-defenders/

2019 Senior Bowl Primer (Zach Allen, DE, Boston College--he looks physically like a long-lost Watt brother. But can he play like J.J., or T.J., or even Derek? There were times where I thought maybe he could. There were times when I’m pretty sure the Watt family would disown him, too. Even so, he’s a natural 5-technique with some inside power and enough production to merit long looks in the top 50.) (1-21-19):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3132/2019-Senior-Bowl-Primer

Senior Bowl: 7 players for the Lions to watch (Boston College DE Zach Allen: When Kentucky’s Josh Allen, a potential top-10 pick, pulled out of the game this week, it left Boston College’s Allen as arguably the best pass rusher in Mobile. Allen had at least six sacks in three straight seasons and projects as late first- or early second-round pick. He played for Lions defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni in college, so there’s plenty of familiarity. And he can play either end position and slide inside on obvious pass-rushing downs.) (1-20-19):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/01/20/detroit-lions-2019-senior-bowl/2631029002/

10 defensive ends the Detroit Lions could target in NFL draft (Allen had 61 tackles, including 15 for a loss, 6.5 sacks, an interception, forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and 11 quarterback hurries as a senior. He finished his career with 40.5 tackles for a loss and 18.5 sacks. Kiper listed him as the No. 7 defensive end available in the draft, he is a potential first-round pick and will play in the Senior Bowl.) (1-17-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/fa9ca596088576/10-defensive-ends-the-detroit-lions-could-target-in-nfl-draft.html

First Responder Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Boston College vs. Boise State bowl game (Zach Allen, EDGE/DT:  Allen is currently my No. 12 overall prospect in the 2019 Draft. At 6-foot-5 and 280 pounds, the Boston College standout has serious NFL defensive end size. So that box is checked. He's an anvil when offensive linemen try to move him in the run game, and he has no problem shedding blocks. Most importantly, despite his notable size and point-of-attack power, Allen has a well-developed arsenal of pass-rushing moves he can use whenever needed. While certainly not the next Von Miller in terms of bend/dip to the quarterback, Allen is not stiff for his size on the outside either. He should be one of the first edge-rushers picked in the 2019 NFL Draft.) (12-25-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/first-responder-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-boston-college-vs-boise-state-bowl-game/

Scout's Eye: Bowl Game Edition Part III (DE Zach Allen, Boston College, SR (6-5, 285, 4.92, #2): This is a high-impact player opposing offenses have to account for before the ball is snapped. Allen is a menacing force and is constantly in the backfield. He can rush the quarterback when lined up on the edge, utilizing a variety of pass-rush moves, and has kicked inside, serving as an effective run-plugger in the Eagles' 4-3 defensive scheme. The Connecticut native takes great pride in his technique, demonstrates a high motor, is relentless in pursuit and possesses excellent athleticism for his size. A strong draft season could push him into the first round.) (12-22-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-bowl-game-edition-part-iii-Q-dVcKHJ40ikbxz5lf1KWQ/

A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (Paul Pasqualoni coached the defensive line at Boston College last year, so he'll be plenty familiar with junior Zach Allen (6 feet 5 inches, 285 pounds), He has the size and physicality to set a mean edge, which Detroit needs with the impending departure of Ezekiel Ansah.) (12-15-18):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html

2019 NFL Draft: Strengths of all prospects in top 32 (12. Zach Allen, EDGE/DL, Boston College - Strengths: Bull rush, pass-rushing moves, size, power, athleticism) (12-12-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-strengths-of-all-prospects-currently-in-top-32/

Trevor Lawrence, Travis Etienne headline PFF's 2018 All-ACC selections (EDGE DEFENDER - First Team: Zach Allen, Boston College:  The nation’s best bull rush, Allen finds himself on the All-ACC team with a ridiculous five sacks and conference-leading 16 QB hits. In total, he recorded 55 total pressures on his 454 pass-rushing snaps and made 39 defensive stops.) (12-3-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-lawrence-etienne-2018-all-acc-selections

College Football's best at everything (BEST BULL RUSH
Zach Allen, Boston College:  Not too many college tackles are used to seeing 6-foot-5, 285-pound edge defenders and that’s just what Allen is. He prefers to play through his opposition instead of around. And he has no trouble getting home to the quarterback that way.) (11-30-18):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-footballs-best-at-everything

Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Zach Allen, DL, Boston College:  “He is a really versatile guy. He plays really hard. He is a pretty good athlete. He can play in a 3-4 or a 4-3. The thing that sticks out about him is the effort. Not overly athletic, but great effort. A lot of his pass rush comes from his motor. He does have versatility, he could be a 3-4 end in some schemes that move their front. He is kind of like a Ryan Kerrigan, just body type-wise. He’ll probably go somewhere in the second round, maybe the first.”) (11-21-18):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (11. Zach Allen, DE, Boston College: Allen isn't super explosive but is easily one of the most calculated outside pass-rushers in college football when it comes to efficiently using his hands to beat blocks in any situation. Oh, and he's a tank at 6-5 and 280 pounds playing on the edge. He was immovable against Clemson and showed how well he changes directions for his size.) (11-14-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-zach-allen-has-the-power-refined-game-to-be-star-defensive-lineman/

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 11 (Up - Zach Allen, DE, Boston College: Clemson and Boston College had four future first-round defensive linemen playing in their game over the weekend, and the most impressive of those players was Allen. Late in the first quarter, Allen had two good rushes, although one was negated by him jumping offsides, but a few plays later, he burned the right tackle with speed to cause an incompletion and also drawing a holding penalty. In the third quarter, Allen made a great play to leap and bat down a pass. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence caught the deflection, but Allen was able to rip him down for a loss of nine yards on the play. Early in the fourth quarter, Allen used his speed to fire by the right tackle to the inside. Allen bounced off the right guard, and then got his hand up in the air to smack down a third-down pass. Allen came close to a few sacks with pressures, and none of the Clemson offensive linemen were able to sustain blocks on him.  The Clemson game was a phenomenal tape from Allen. He showed so much for NFL teams to fall in love with. Allen is quick at the point of attack with a burst out of his stance. He can use speed around the edge or cut to the inside to fly by blockers, yet has the functional strength to shed blocks. Allen possesses a thick build and is very sound in run defense to hold his ground while being able to make tackles outside of his gap. On top of his excellent skill set, Allen has a tremendous motor and gives relentless effort. This tape made him look like a worthy top-10 pick next April.) (11-13-18):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_11.php

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (4.  Zach Allen, DE, Boston College: Allen was awesome against Clemson, showing superb ability to play the run and rush the passer. He had four tackles with one for a loss and three passes batted from taking on the Tigers. Versus Virginia Tech, Allen had four tackles. Against Louisville, he totaled seven tackles with three for a loss and a sack. Allen dominated Temple, recording eight tackles, two sacks, four tackles for a loss and a forced fumble. He has totaled 50 tackles with 5.5 sacks, six passes batted, one forced fumble and 13.5 tackles for a loss on the year.) (11-13-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

$.10 After NFL Week 10 (I intently watched Boston College DE Zach Allen for scouting purposes in this game. He did not disappoint. His body type and style of play do indeed recall J.J. Watt, as the broadcast reminded you on every possession. His ability to use his strength and length at the same time to shed blocks is very reminiscent of Watt coming out of Wisconsin. I don’t see as explosive or as agile of an athlete, but he’s a reasonable enough facsimile to merit draft consideration in the first round. He fits a 3-4 front nicely. Staying in New England with the Patriots would be a great match.) (11-12-18):   https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3095/$10-After-NFL-Week-10

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama's Quinnen Williams rising but not (yet) No. 1 (17. Allen:  In terms of size and style, Allen could not be much different than former teammate and flashy edge rusher Harold Landry, whom the Tennessee Titans selected 41st overall this past spring. Whereas Landry's burst and bend made him a constant threat off the edge, Allen is more of bully at the line of scrimmage, simply overpowering and out-working would-be blockers while playing up and down the line.) (11-8-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-s-quinnen-williams-rising-but-not-yet-no-1-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

Scout's Eye: Top NFL Prospects to Watch in Week 11 (DE Zach Allen, Boston College, SR (6-5, 285, 4.92, #2): This is an impact player that offenses have to account for before the ball is snapped, as Allen is a menacing force and constantly in the backfield. He can rush the quarterback when lined up on the edge, using a variety of pass-rush moves. And he has kicked inside, serving as an effective run-plugger in the Eagles' 4-3 defensive scheme. The Connecticut native takes great pride in his technique, demonstrates a high motor, is relentless in pursuit and possesses excellent athleticism for his size.) (11-8-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-top-nfl-prospects-to-watch-in-week-11-YJXIsG_qr0qtj8irwhwkTA/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (6.  Zach Allen, DE, Boston College. (Previously: 6 Avg. 7.2 per 11): Versus Virginia Tech, Allen had four tackles. Taking on Louisville, he totaled seven tackles with three for a loss and a sack. Allen dominated against Temple, recording eight tackles, two sacks, four tackles for a loss and a forced fumble. He has totaled 46 tackles with 5.5 sacks, three passes batted, one forced fumble and 12.5 tackles for a loss on the year.) (11-7-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama vs. LSU highlight must-see Week 10 matchups:  (​17. Zach Allen, DE, Boston College, Sr:  In terms of size and style, Allen could not be much different than former teammate and flashy edge rusher Harold Landry, whom the Tennessee Titans selected 41st overall this past spring. Whereas Landry’s burst and bend made him a constant threat off the edge, Allen is more of bully at the line of scrimmage, simply overpowering and out-working would-be blockers while playing up and down the line. Don't think that this means the imposing 6-5, 285 pounder isn't a legitimate athlete, however, as this interception shows.)  (11-2-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-vs-lsu-highlight-must-see-week-10-matchups-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (6.  Zach Allen, DE, Boston College. (Previously: 6 Avg. 7.3 per 10): Versus Miami, Allen had six tackles with a sack and another half tackle for a loss. Taking on Louisville, he totaled seven tackles with three for a loss and a sack. Allen dominated against Temple, recording eight tackles, two sacks, four tackles for a loss and a forced fumble. He has totaled 42 tackles with 5.5 sacks, three passes batted, one forced fumble and 12.5 tackles for a loss on the year.) (10-31-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Lions scouted Boston College-Miami, Eagles pass rusher Zach Allen (10-27-18):   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/10/27/lions-scouted-boston-college-miami-eagles-pass-rusher-zach-allen/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Surprising QB class shakes up the rankings (17. Allen (2018: 36 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, three passes defensed (seven games)):  In terms of size and style, Allen could not be much different than former teammate and flashy edge rusher Harold Landry, whom the Tennessee Titans selected 41st overall this past spring. Whereas Landry’s burst and bend made him a constant threat off the edge, Allen is more of bully at the line of scrimmage, simply overpowering and out-working would-be blockers while playing up and down the line. Don't think that this means the imposing 6-5, 285 pounder isn't a legitimate athlete, however, as this interception shows.) (10-26-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-surprising-qb-class-shakes-up-the-rankings-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (6. Allen:  Boston College had a bye last week. Taking on Louisville, Allen had seven tackles with three for a loss and a sack. He dominated against Temple, recording eight tackles, two sacks, four tackles for a loss and a forced fumble. Allen has totaled 36 tackles with 4.5 sacks, three passes batted, one forced fumble and 11 tackles for a loss on the year.) (10-24-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: ACC, SEC defenders rising as rivalry games begin (14. Allen ((2018: 36 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, three passes defensed (seven games)):  In terms of size and style, Allen could not be much different than former teammate and flashy edge rusher Harold Landry, whom the Tennessee Titans selected 41st overall this past spring. Whereas Landry’s burst and bend made him a constant threat off the edge, Allen is more of bully at the line of scrimmage, simply overpowering and out-working would-be blockers while playing up and down the line. Don't think that this means the imposing 6-5, 285 pounder isn't a legitimate athlete, however, as this interception shows.) (10-18-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-acc-sec-defenders-rising-as-rivalry-games-begin-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (6.  Zach Allen, DE, Boston College. (Previously: 6 Avg. 7.6 per 8): Taking on Louisville, Allen had seven tackles with three for a loss and a sack. He dominated against Temple, recording eight tackles, two sacks, four tackles for a loss and a forced fumble. Allen has totaled 36 tackles with 4.5 sacks, three passes batted, one forced fumble and 11 tackles for a loss on the year.) (10-17-18):
http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

NCAA Midseason All-American Team (Edge Defender - Zach Allen, Boston College (2018 Grade: 89.8):  As for Zach Allen, he was a top-notch run stuffer last season, but he now has the No. 6 pass-rushing grade among edge defenders at 89.9 while tying for eighth in the nation with 32 pressures.) (10-15-18):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-midseason-all-american-team

2019 NFL Draft Big Board - Oregon's Justin Herbert to be tested by gifted UW DBs (14. Allen (2018:  29 tackles, eight tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, three passes defensed (six games)):  In terms of size and style, Allen could not be much different than former teammate and flashy edge rusher Harold Landry, whom the Tennessee Titans selected 41st overall this past spring. Whereas Landry’s burst and bend made him a constant threat off the edge, Allen is more of bully at the line of scrimmage, simply overpowering and out-working would-be blockers while playing up and down the line. Don't think that this means the imposing 6-5, 285 pounder isn't a legitimate athlete, however, as this interception shows.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-oregon-s-justin-herbert-to-be-tested-by-gifted-uw-dbs-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (6. Allen: Taking on N.C. State, Allen had eight tackles with .5 for a loss and a pass batted. A week earlier, Allen dominated against Temple, recording eight tackles, two sacks, four tackles for a loss and a forced fumble. He has totaled 29 tackles with 3.5 sacks, three passes batted, one forced fumble and eight tackles for a loss on the year.) (10-10-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

The 5 top-graded defensive players from every Power-5 conference (2. Zach Allen, Edge, Boston College (2018 season grade: 89.0):  Allen has lived in Harold Landry’s national shadow long enough. Despite two solid years of production, Allen has stepped up his game in 2018. He already has 28 QB pressures including three sacks and 10 QB hits, which ties for his career-high.) (10-5-18):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-top-5-defensive-players-power-5

2018 NFL Draft Big Board - New duo boost already dominant defensive line class (15.  Allen (2018: 23 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks (five games)):  In terms of size and style, Allen could not be much different than former teammate and flashy edge rusher Harold Landry, whom the Tennessee Titans selected 41st overall this past spring. Whereas Landry’s burst and bend made him a constant threat off the edge, Allen is more of bully at the line of scrimmage, simply overpowering and out-working would-be blockers while playing up and down the line. Don't think that this means the imposing 6-5, 285 pounder isn't a legitimate athlete, however, as this interception shows.) (10-4-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2018-nfl-draft-big-board-new-duo-boost-already-dominant-defensive-line-class-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (19. Zach Allen, DE, Boston College: Allen could not be blocked by the Temple offensive line in the back-and-forth contest on Saturday. He finished the game with four tackles for loss and two sacks, and it seemed like he could've nearly doubled those figures based on the repeated pressure and disruption he created. For being 6-5 and 285-ish pounds, Allen plays with good speed but is a bull-rusher who counters off his initial straight-arm move.) (10-3-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-nc-states-kelvin-harmon-joins-pack-of-receivers-in-top-20/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (7.  Zach Allen, DE, Boston College. (Previously: 6 Avg. 8.2 per 6): Allen dominated against Temple, recording eight tackles, two sacks, four tackles for a loss and a forced fumble. Boston College was upset by Purdue, yet Allen recorded .5 sacks and five tackles. A week earlier, Allen played well against Wake Forest on in a Thursday night game, recording five tackles with .5 for a loss. He has totaled 21 tackles with 3.5 sacks, two passes batted, one forced fumble and 7.5 tackles for a loss on the year.) (10-3-18):   http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Week 5 National Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER - Zach Allen, Boston College (Week 5 Grade: 91.1):  Allen dominated the Temple offensive line, registering 12 QB pressures to lead the nation in Week 5. He brought in two sacks, four QB hits and an additional six hurries while he also recorded five defensive stops in the game.) (10-2-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-5-team-of-the-week/

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 5 (Up - Zach Allen, DE, Boston College: Already the 2019 NFL Draft is known to be a class that is loaded with good defensive line talent. A lot of attention gets paid to prospects like Ed Oliver, Nick Bosa, Derrick Brown, Raekwon Davis and the Clemson defensive line; however, team sources say that Allen is a sleeper because he is really good and deserving of a lot of attention. Last year, some scouts told me they were grading Allen in the first round before he decided to return to Boston College.   Allen is a quick pass-rusher who can get upfield and uses his strength to shed blocks. He shows a nice ability to fight off blockers and get pressure on the quarterback. Allen is also very tough in the ground game, making a lot of tackles and being tough at the point of attack. For the NFL, Allen should have the ability to be a 4-3 left defensive end to provide a mismatch versus the right tackle or serve as a five-technique in a 3-4 defense. Allen looks like he could be on his way to being a top-20 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.) (10-2-18):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_05.php

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (6. Zach Allen, DE, Boston College. (Previously: 10 Avg. 9 per 4): Allen played well against Wake Forest on in a Thursday night game, recording five tackles with .5 for a loss. On the year, he has 10 tackles with one sack, one pass batted and three tackles for a loss. ) (9-19-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Walterfootball Big Board (10.  Zach Allen, DE, Boston College. (Previously: 10 Avg. 10 per 3) - 09/12/18: Allen got his season started with three tackles and a sack against UMass. On the year, Allen has five tackles with one sack and 2.5 tackles for a loss.   08/30/18: Allen (6-4, 284) didn't receive the hype of teammate Harold Landry, but Allen was the better pro prospect and could easily have been picked before Landry if both had been in the 2018 NFL Draft. Allen is a tough run defender who is strong to hold his ground at the point of attack. He anchors well and is tough to move. As a pass-rusher, Allen has an impressive first-step and burst out of his stance for a heavy defensive end. He has the strength to get pressure on the bull rush and the speed to close. Allen could use more pass-rushing moves for the NFL and with his size and strength, it would be nice to see him add a club or rip move.   Allen totaled 100 tackles with 15.5 tackles for a loss, six sacks, three passes broken up and an interception in 2017. In the NFL, Allen will be an asset as a run defender playing end in a 4-3 or 3-4 defense.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: More D-linemen added after wowing in Week One (11. Allen (2018: 13 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1 sack (three games)): In terms of size and style, Allen could not be much different than former teammate and flashy edge rusher Harold Landry, whom the Tennessee Titans selected 41st overall this past spring. Whereas Landry’s burst and bend made him a constant threat off the edge, Allen is more of bully at the line of scrimmage, simply overpowering and out-working would-be blockers while playing up and down the line.) (9-6-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-more-d-linemen-added-after-wowing-in-week-one-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

Ranking the top 25 prospects in 2018: Bosa's bro to wreak havoc? (22. Jelks:  It was easy to notice Allen while studying Titans second-round pick Harold Landry in the spring. Allen is strong at the point of attack in the run game, and his power overwhelms offensive tackles in the passing game. -- DJ) (8-30-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000952266/article/ranking-the-top-25-prospects-in-the-2018-college-football-season

Greg Gabriel early 2019 NFL Draft breakdown: Boston College DL Zach Allen (8-27-18):   http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/08/27/greg-gabriel-early-2019-nfl-draft-breakdown-boston-college-dl-zach-allen/aiegsio/

Scouting the ACC – Boston College (We presently grade Zach Allen higher than we graded his former teammate Harold Landry one year ago, which is in direct contrast to league scouts. Allen is not the pass rusher Landry is, but he's a more polished three-down defender who can stuff the run and occupy the gaps as well as get up the field and harass opposing quarterbacks.  He has better size, growth potential and versatility than Landry. Allen can be used at end in a four-man line or on the outside in a three-man front, and he can even play inside as a pass rusher on third downs. His intensity, intelligence and motor are infectious and unlike Landry, I would be surprised if Allen doesn’t end up in the first round next year.) (7-26-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-acc-%E2%80%93-boston-college


NFL Draft Defender Ranks (3. Allen:  Zach Allen (6’5/285), Harold Landry’s running mate last year, probably would have gone in Round 2 had he declared for the 2018 draft. With Landry gone, he steps fully in the spotlight. Allen posted 15.5 TFL last year and he’s only getting better. He was one of two FBS defensive linemen to finish with 100 or more tackles last year. He'll be a first-rounder next spring if that progression continues.) (6-8-18):  http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks

DE Nick Bosa:

Scouting Reports:

Walterfootball:  http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2019nbosa.php

Articles:

NFL Combine winners, losers: Kyler Murray critics take L; D-line freaks show off (D-line freaks - A loaded class of edge-rushers did not disappoint. That included Nick Bosa and Quinnen Williams, who are in a battle to be the first pick among defensive linemen, but they have competition.  Montez Sweat ran a 4.41 40-yard dash. Rashan Gary ran a 4.58. Dexter Lawrence put up 36 reps in the bench press, and we haven’t seen a full workout yet from Ed Oliver. These guys will be the story of the first round of the draft.) (3-5-19):  http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2019-winners-losers-kyler-murray-critics-defensive-linemen/csnr73i17bkm1gyz9c56j81cc

2019 NFL Scouting Combine: Twelve numbers that matter most (4.14 seconds:  Nick Bosa ran the short shuttle in 4.14 seconds and also had a 1.55 10-yard split on his 40-yard dash -- both of these numbers beat the combine results of his Pro Bowl brother, Joey, who ran the short shuttle in 4.21 seconds and had a 1.69 10-yard split in the 40. These two tests have been more correlated to NFL DE success than the full 40-yard dash. For fun, though, remember when the older Bosa's 40 was considered "slow" at 4.86? Well, Nick got his brother there, too, running a 4.79.) (3-4-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001021021/article/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-twelve-numbers-that-matter-most

Combine: How Sweat won the day (Nick Bosa, EDGE, Ohio State (Draft range: Top 3):  Bosa played just three games last season before shutting it down for good. He suffered a core-muscle injury, had surgery in the fall, but participated in every drill in Indianapolis. And while he wasn't the fastest edge rusher here, he checked all the boxes and reaffirmed the belief that he's the same dominant player we last saw in September. He only managed a 4.79 40-time, which bested his brother by less than a tenth of a second, but all you need to do is watch Bosa play to know he can take over a game with his insane first step, his unbelievable hand usage, and sheer power. If he falls out of the top pick the 49ers will sprint to the podium to draft him at No. 2.) (3-3-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-montez-sweat-steals-the-show-with-blazing-40-time-and-how-dl-lb-workouts-affect-the-first-round/

Combine takeaways: Big day for D-linemen (Ohio State's Nick Bosa didn't do anything to hurt his status as the top player in the draft. After running a 4.79-second 40-yard dash at 266 pounds, he looked like a prototype running through drills, and he might be even better in space than we thought, as he looked great in the wave drill and changing direction, though he did miss a bag while running the stack and shed.) (3-3-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-results-montez-sweat-quinnen-williams-devin-white-josh-allen-dominate/

Amid Kyler Murray-to-Cardinals Rumors, Nick Bosa Pleads Case for Top Pick and other notes (Nick Bosa is back. The former Ohio State defensive end made his long-awaited return Sunday at the NFL Scouting Combine. Bosa hasn’t performed publicly in any athletic capacity since he suffered a core muscle injury in September, and he was a full participant in Sunday defensive ends workout.  Bosa looked stiff throughout most of his on-field workout, but his so-so Underwear Olympics performance won’t impact his draft stock. Teams know what kind of player he is on the field. Bosa ran a 4.79 40-yard dash, which isn’t a spectacular number, but his 10-yard split time (1.55) was third among defensive ends this year. That number is a more important measurement for pass rushers, because it measures their initial burst off the line.  The buzz of the combine has been the idea that the Cardinals will take Oklahoma quarterback Kyler Murray with the first pick of the draft. Bosa had been the presumed No. 1 pick since he announced his intentions to leave Ohio State and prepare for the NFL draft in October. When asked on Saturday, Bosa told reporters that the Cardinals would be making a “big mistake” if they pass on him with the No. 1 pick and he said he’s healthy again, and has been”training at full speed for a couple months.") (3-3-19):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/03/03/2019-nfl-combine-nick-bosa-returns-makes-case-first-overall-pick

No Sweat, Mississippi State edge rusher leads dominant DL group at Combine (Projected top five picks Quinnen Williams and Nick Bosa did everything they needed to do (athletically-speaking)) (3-3-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/no-sweat-mississippi-state-edge-rusher-leads-dominant-dl-group-at-combine-lIYXFAHcLk6MN-tMaysgUg/

NFL Combine: Nick Bosa inadvertently recreates brother's 40-yard-dash (3-3-19):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/2019/03/nick-bosa-40-yard-dash-joey-bosa

How top DE Bosa got past one of 'darkest moments' (3-3-19):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2019/03/03/nfl-combine-nick-bosa-injury-ohio-state/3045024002/

Nick Bosa: Big mistake if Cardinals pass on me (3-2-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001020393/article/nick-bosa-cardinals-making-big-mistake-if-they-pass-on-me

Raiders Like Nick Bosa, Quinnen Williams (3-2-19):  http://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Raiders-Like-Nick-Bosa,-Quinnen-Williams

Combine Notes- Saturday (Another update from our podcast: many were surprised when I mentioned that Jachai Polite was rated as the No. 2 edge rusher in the draft, ahead of Nick Bosa. This does not mean Polite will be drafted before Bosa, as I explained during the podcast, which you can listen to here. I’m told the Green Bay Packers really like Polite at this point in the process, and we had them selecting the Florida junior during our mock draft immediately after the Super Bowl.)
 (3-2-19):  http://draftanalyst.com/combine-notes-saturday

DJ's takeaways from scouting combine (Nick Bosa, Ohio State (No. 1 to Cardinals): An injury held out Bosa for most of the 2018 season, but the Buckeye defender is touted as a top prospect. He clocked a 4.79 40-yard dash Sunday. "He's the best player in the draft in my opinion. ... I think he's as skilled of a pass rusher as we've seen in a while. He's not the physical freak that we've seen from Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney. He's not in that class. ... But, when the tape starts, you put it on, he's unblockable.") (3-4-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001019889/article/daniel-jeremiahs-day-1-nfl-scouting-combine-takeaways

Combine: Oliver, Burns win weigh-ins (Losers - Nick Bosa, Ohio State. Bosa's length -- 33-inch arms and 77 7/8-inch wingspan -- simply did not stack up to other top edge rushers like Josh Allen, Clelin Ferrell, Montez Sweat, and Jachai Polite. Not a crushing blow to his draft stock, of course. Certainly not a win though.) (3-1-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-ed-oliver-brian-burns-among-winners-as-dls-edges-lbs-weigh-in-and-get-measured/

NFL Combine 2019: The 10 prospects with the most on the line in Indianapolis (Nick Bosa, EDGE, Ohio State:  Bosa has been a sleeping giant since the middle of September when he went down with a core muscle injury against TCU inside Jerry World. Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer reported Bosa is going to be a full participant in Indianapolis which is ... awesome, seeing as he entered the pre-draft process with exactly zero momentum after spending the past two seasons as arguably the bests defensive player in college football.  Just about everyone, including myself, has compared Nick to his brother Joey.  The similarly sized Josh Allen steamrolls into Indy with a hefty amount of hype. He's long been nipping at Bosa's heels for the No. 1 edge rusher or even the No. 1 overall pick spot. The former Ohio State star has the most on the line in Indianapolis.) (2-27-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2019-prospects-with-the-most-on-the-line-in-indianapolis/

NFL Draft 2019: A big board of the top 25 Lions targets entering the combine (1. Nick Bosa, EDGE, Ohio State:  The Lions have ignored the edge position for years, and now that Ezekiel Ansah seems headed elsewhere, they're in a spot where they can't afford not to address it. That makes Nick Bosa the top player here, as he would be on many teams' boards. He's much like his older brother, Joey, as a prospect, which means his strength, tenacity and fierce hands make up for a lack of speed. He'd be a perfect next piece to a line with Damon "Snacks" Harrison and A'Shawn Robinson, but it's not going to happen.) (2-26-19):  https://expo.mlive.com/sports/g66l-2019/02/25732221735574/nfl-draft-2019-a-big-board-of-the-top-50-lions-targets-entering-the-combine.html

10 players who could be stars of the NFL scouting combine (5. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State:  After missing all but the first three games of the season with a core muscle injury, Bosa pledged last week he'd be "back in action" at the combine. The odds-on favorite to be the No. 1 overall pick has the chance to remind onlookers of the combination of speed and strength that made him one of college football's most feared rushers. Many will be eager to see how his testing numbers compare to those of older brother Joey, the standout Los Angeles Chargers defensive end who was the No. 3 overall pick in 2016.) (2-26-19):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2019/02/26/nfl-combine-2019-rashan-gary-dk-metcalf/2935457002/

Roundup: Bosa ready to participate at combine (2-25-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001018873/article/roundup-nick-bosa-ready-to-participate-at-combine

Nick Bosa Is Ready to Go at the NFL Combine, and More Updates Ahead of Indy (2-25-19):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/02/25/nfl-combine-2019-nick-bosa-kyler-murray-rashan-gary

NFL combine 2019: Nick Bosa, Rashan Gary headline deep crop of EDGE players (Nick Bosa, Ohio State: He's got size, speed and a whole bag of professional pass rushing moves. If that sounds like he's the total deal, well, that's because he is. Barring a trade up the board, Detroit has no shot at him. He just might be the favorite to go No. 1 overall. And he should be one of the biggest draws of the combine, as he shows where he's at coming off injury.) (2-19-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/02/03a3818f381488/nfl-combine-2019-joey-bosa-rashan-gary-headline-deep-crop-of-edge-players-.html

2019 Combine Preview: Edge rusher (Nick Bosa - Best trait: He’s a game wrecker. He possess speed, power and a variety of pass rush moves. He’s considered by most analysts to be the most complete edge rusher in this class, and could go No. 1 overall.  Concern: A core muscle injury suffered Week 3 forced him to miss the rest of this past year as he decided to prepare for the draft instead of return to Ohio State late in the year. The medical evaluations will obviously be important to make sure he’s 100 percent.  Skinny: There are a lot of comparisons to his older brother Joey, who’s become one of the best pass rushers in the NFL. The two have a similar build and playing style, and the younger Bosa should be able to come in and make an impact right away just like his brother did.) (2-15-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2019-combine-preview-edge-rusher

Previewing the 2019 NFL Combine: Studs, starters and sleepers at Defensive End (Grade: A-.  A First Round Prototype: Nick Bosa, Ohio State:  Like his older brother, Joey, Bosa is a plug and play Pro Bowl caliber edge rusher who - barring complications with his medical - will not make it out of the top five picks of the 2019 NFL draft and is a legitimate contender for No. 1 overall. The Bosa brothers play with a similar brand of controlled chaos that results in consistent big plays. As noted by Nick's official bio at Ohio State, the two had virtually identical stats through 30 games: Joey had 34.5 tackles for loss and Nick had 29.0; Joey had 21.0 quarterback sacks and Nick had 17.5 - and Nick accomplished his production in roughly 600 fewer snaps.) (2-15-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/previewing-the-2019-nfl-combine-studs-starters-and-sleepers-at-defensive-end-EmCIcb0FQ0uumrwUgp9iPQ/

Pass-rushers to target in the 2019 NFL Draft and free agency (NICK BOSA, OHIO STATE EDGE: Projected as the No. 1 overall pick in PFF Senior Analyst Mike Renner’s latest mock draft, former Ohio State edge defender Nick Bosa is hands down the best pass-rushing talent in the 2019 draft class. Going back to his 2017 season, Bosa earned an impressive 92.5 pass-rush grade and a 20.7 pressure percentage along with his 24 defensive stops.) (2-12-19):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-pass-rushers-to-target-in-the-2019-nfl-draft-and-free-agency

Nick Bosa to Lions: Trade up for me in draft (2-3-19):  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Nick-Bosa-NFL-Draft-Lions-trade-128636193/


Nick Bosa: 2019 NFL Draft Film Room (1-30-19):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-film-room-nick-bosa

Nick Bosa NFL draft profile (1-28-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/01/28/nick-bosa-nfl-draft-profile/

10 defensive ends the Detroit Lions could target in NFL draft (Bosa was named the Big Ten's Smith-Brown Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2017 but his junior season was cut short due to injury. He played in just three games and recorded 14 tackles, including six for a loss, and four sacks. Bosa had core muscle surgery and decided in October to withdraw from school to prepare for the draft. His older brother, Joey, was also a standout defensive end at Ohio State and the No. 3 overall pick by the Chargers in the 2016 draft. It's unlikely Bosa will even be around by the time the Lions select eighth as he's viewed as a potential No. 1 pick and ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. recently listed him as the top defensive end in the draft.) (1-17-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/fa9ca596088576/10-defensive-ends-the-detroit-lions-could-target-in-nfl-draft.html

Projecting The NFL Scouting Combine: Defensive Line (Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State (Day 1) – Rehabbing a core muscle injury since October, Bosa possesses the ability to impact both the run game and be a disruptive force against the pass, blending power and finesse.) (1-16-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/projecting-the-nfl-scouting-combine-defensive-line-JnMnU1Uymk2YPB0birSorQ/

Draft: Analysis of top underclassmen (Nick Bosa, Ohio State:  Complete package with speed, explosiveness, bend, pass-rushing moves, power, and length.) (1-15-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-here-are-the-top-underclassman-draft-prospects-you-need-to-know/

Scout’s Eye: Bowl Edition – Part IV (DE Nick Bosa, Ohio State, JR (6-3, 270, 4.76, #97): An Ohio State legacy player, Bosa is likely the odds-on favorite to be the most discussed prospect leading up to the 2019 NFL Draft. He announced his intent to enter the draft back in October and has been rehabbing a “core muscle” injury as he prepares for the draft. Bosa possesses the ability to impact both the run game and be a disruptive force against the pass, blending power and finesse to win the leverage battle. He’s stout at the point of attack and has proven to win with his powerful bull-rush but also demonstrates impressive hand technique with his pass rush repertoire. Many have pegged Bosa to be the top player in the 2019 NFL Draft.) (12-29-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-bowl-edition-part-iv--IHTlG89Bkq--cT8bCVQDA/

NFL Draft 2019 Position Primers: Nick Bosa, Clelin Ferrell the Top Edge Rushers (NICK BOSA, DE, OHIO STATE:   The brother of NFL star Joey, son of NFL lineman John and great-grandson of Chicago mob boss Tony Accardo, Bosa is favored to be the No. 1 pick in 2019. He missed most of his junior season after injuring his core muscle in October, but Bosa is the most explosive edge rusher coming out of the college ranks since Joey, who the Chargers took No. 3 overall in 2016. The younger Bosa’s magnificence starts with his first step.  If you study any Bosa highlight, you’ll notice that he’s up with his hands on the tackle’s pads a split second after the snap. He has top-level speed and discards blocks with ridiculous ease. Bosa possesses a great bull rush where he shoves the tackle directly into the quarterback, but he also has some niftier misdirection moves. Offenses double-team and chip him with extra blockers like NFL schemes do to account for rushers like Khalil Mack and Aaron Donald, but Bosa wins battles anyway. Plus, he opens up space for his teammates. He has no obvious shortcomings. If he’s healthy, Bosa will be an instant stud in the league.) (12-21-18):   https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/21/nfl-draft-2019-top-edge-rushers-nick-bosa-clelin-ferrell

2019 NFL Draft Big Board 2.0: Herbert Moves Into Top 10, Uptick in Offense in Latest Rankings (1. NICK BOSA, DE, OHIO STATE (Height: 6' 4" | Weight: 265 pounds):  He was the best player in college football over the season’s first three weeks. And his core muscle injury hasn’t changed the way evaluators see his trajectory into the pros.) (12-14-18):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert

2019 NFL Draft: Strengths of all prospects in top 32 (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State - Strengths: Pass-rushing moves, bend, explosiveness, strength) (12-12-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-strengths-of-all-prospects-currently-in-top-32/

7 players the Lions could take with a top-five NFL draft pick (Nick Nosa - Breakdown: Ezekiel Ansah is eligible to hit free agency next year. And even if he were to return, which I find unlikely, the Lions can't count on him anymore. Not after that grab-bag of injuries that have slowed him the last three years. They need help at end -- and there won't be anyone better than Bosa in this draft. He projects as a 4-3 base end, but is scheme-versatile too, just the sort of thing Matt Patricia wants. Problem is, I have about as good a chance of going No. 1 overall as Bosa does lasting beyond the first couple picks.) (12-7-18):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/583e085bc13932/7-players-the-lions-could-take.html

Prospects: Who should stay, go (Nick Bosa, Ohio State: Bosa has been the best defensive player in college football for two seasons now. He has a special blend of athleticism, power, and pass-rushing moves ... similar to his brother. Should he stay or go? Go. Duh. He is nursing a core muscle injury but should be good to go for some type of pre-draft workout. After that, if everything looks to be firing on all cylinders, Bosa should be the favorite to be the No. 1 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.) (12-4-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-underclassmen-tracker-who-should-declare-who-should-go-back-to-school/

Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State:  “He is really identical to his brother in terms of his excellent size, and he is a great athlete. He brings it every play. He is very effective in the run game also. That’s where he separates him from other guys, he is a complete player.”) (11-21-18):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports

2019 NFL Draft Big Board 1.0: Nick Bosa No. 1, Justin Herbert Top QB at No. 13 (1. NICK BOSA, DE, OHIO STATE:  The true junior was the best player in America through three weeks of this season before shutting it down. Assuming he checks out physically coming off his core muscle surgery, he’s the leader in the clubhouse to be the No. 1 prospect going into pre-draft process.) (11-15-18):   https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/15/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State:  Bosa's top spot is still safe for the time being.) (11-14-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-zach-allen-has-the-power-refined-game-to-be-star-defensive-lineman/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (2.  Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State. (Previously: 1 Avg. 1.5 per 11): Bosa has withdrawn from Ohio State to prepare for the 2019 NFL Draft, but was already out recovering from core-muscle surgery. He totaled four sacks, 14 tackles with six for a loss and one forced fumble over his roughly two games of playing time in 2018.) (11-13-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama's Quinnen Williams rising but not (yet) No. 1 (2.  Bosa:  Before suffering a core muscular injury that ultimately required surgery and ended his college career, Bosa lived up to his billing as a rare legitimate defensive Heisman contender and No. 1 overall candidate against TCU September 15, registering five tackles and a strip sack that resulted in a Ohio State touchdown. One shouldn't blame Big Ten tackles or NFL scouts for confusing Nick with his older brother Joey as Bosa has emerged as one of the dominant defenders in the country. While perhaps slightly shorter than Joey, Nick offers a similar blend of power, technique, functional athleticism and instincts, making him arguably the safest NFL prospect in the country and a good bet to at least match Joey's No. 3 overall selection two years ago.) (11-8-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-s-quinnen-williams-rising-but-not-yet-no-1-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Quinnen Williams closing in on Ed Oliver as top DT prospect (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Bosa's top spot is still safe for the time being.) (11-7-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-quinnen-williams-closing-in-on-ed-oliver-as-top-dt-prospect/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (2.  Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State. (Previously: 1 Avg. 1.5 per 11): Bosa has withdrawn from Ohio State to prepare for the 2019 NFL Draft, but was already out recovering from core-muscle surgery. He totaled four sacks, 14 tackles with six for a loss and one forced fumble over his roughly two games of playing time in 2018.) (11-7-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama vs. LSU highlight must-see Week 10 matchups:  (​2. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State, Jr:  Before suffering a core muscular injury that ultimately required surgery and ended his college career, Bosa lived up to his billing as a rare legitimate defensive Heisman contender and No. 1 overall candidate against TCU September 15, registering five tackles and a strip sack that resulted in a Ohio State touchdown. One shouldn’t blame Big Ten tackles or NFL scouts for confusing Nick with his older brother Joey as Bosa has emerged as one of the dominant defenders in the country. While perhaps slightly shorter than Joey, Nick offers a similar blend of power, technique, functional athleticism and instincts, making him arguably the safest NFL prospect in the country and a good bet to at least match Joey's No. 3 overall selection two years ago.)  (11-2-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-vs-lsu-highlight-must-see-week-10-matchups-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 Draft Prospect Rankings: WRs Harmon, Johnson can do it all (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State: Bosa's top spot is still safe for the time being.) (10-31-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-wrs-kelvin-harmon-anthony-johnson-put-their-complete-games-on-display/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (1.  Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State. (Previously: 1 Avg. 1.5 per 10): Bosa has withdrawn from Ohio State to prepare for the 2019 NFL Draft, but was already out recovering from core-muscle surgery. He totaled four sacks, 14 tackles with six for a loss and one forced fumble over his roughly two games of playing time in 2018.) (10-31-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Surprising QB class shakes up the rankings (1.  Bosa (2018: 14 tackles, 6 TFL for loss, 4 sacks, 1 Fumble recovery, TD (three games)):  Before suffering a core muscular injury that ultimately required surgery and ended his college career, Bosa lived up to his billing as a rare legitimate defensive Heisman contender and No. 1 overall candidate against TCU September 15, registering five tackles and a strip sack that resulted in a Ohio State touchdown. One shouldn’t blame Big Ten tackles or NFL scouts for confusing Nick with his older brother Joey as Bosa has emerged as one of the dominant defenders in the country. While perhaps slightly shorter than Joey, Nick offers a similar blend of power, technique, functional athleticism and instincts, making him arguably the safest NFL prospect in the country and a good bet to at least match Joey's No. 3 overall selection two years ago.) (10-26-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-surprising-qb-class-shakes-up-the-rankings-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Washington's Ben Burr-Kirven the new-age linebacker prototype (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Bosa's top spot is safe for the time being. No legit contenders.) (10-24-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-washingtons-ben-burr-kirven-the-new-age-linebacker-prototype/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (1. Bosa:  Bosa was out indefinitely after having surgery on a core-muscle injury, but he has now withdrawn from Ohio State to prepare for the 2019 NFL Draft. Bosa totaled four sacks, 14 tackles with six for a loss and one forced fumble in 2018 over roughly two games of playing time.) (10-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Rankings 3.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season  (1. Oliver:   Ohio State announced last week that Bosa intends to withdraw from the school to focus on rehab and NFL draft prep after suffering a core muscle injury earlier this season. While he won't suit up for the Buckeyes anymore this fall, he's shown enough to secure his spot as the top prospect in the country. -- DJ) (10-23-18):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000977769/article/rankings-30-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season

2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 8 (1. NICK BOSA, OHIO STATE – EDGE DEFENDER (Week 3 Draft Board rank: 1st (no change)): Bosa logged 113 defensive snaps this season before it was over, accumulating a 92.6 overall grade (was first in the nation when he qualified) and 11 pressures on just 69 pass-rushes.) (10-22-18):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2019-nfl-draft-board-32-prospects-week-8

PFF College Video Breakdown – Nick Bosa's draft stock (10-19-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-video-breakdown-nick-bosas-draft-stock

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: ACC, SEC defenders rising as rivalry games begin (2. Bosa ((2018: 14 tackles, 6 TFL for loss, 4 sacks, 1 Fumble recovery, TD (three games)):   Before suffering a core muscular injury that ultimately required surgery and ended his college career, Bosa lived up to his billing as a rare legitimate defensive Heisman contender and No. 1 overall candidate against TCU September 15, registering five tackles and a strip sack that resulted in a Ohio State touchdown. One shouldn’t blame Big Ten tackles or NFL scouts for confusing Nick with his older brother Joey as Bosa has emerged as one of the dominant defenders in the country. While perhaps slightly shorter than Joey, Nick offers a similar blend of power, technique, functional athleticism and instincts, making him arguably the safest NFL prospect in the country and a good bet to at least match Joey's No. 3 overall selection two years ago.) (10-18-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-acc-sec-defenders-rising-as-rivalry-games-begin-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Add Miami's Gerald Willis to group of premier DT prospects (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State:  Bosa made the right decision to leave Ohio State to prepare for the NFL Draft. As I wrote yesterday, he'll likely stay at the No. 1 spot for me unless someone like Ed Oliver or Clelin Ferrell goes bananas over the next few months.) (10-17-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-add-miamis-gerald-willis-to-group-of-premier-dt-prospects/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (1.  Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State. (Previously: 1 Avg. 1.6 per 8): Bosa was out indefinitely after having surgery on a core-muscle injury, but he has now withdrawn from Ohio State to prepare for the 2019 NFL Draft. Bosa totaled four sacks, 14 tackles with six for a loss and one forced fumble in 2018 over roughly two games of playing time.) (10-17-18):
http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Nick Bosa done at Ohio State: NFL Draft stock, teams that make sense and what's next (10-16-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nick-bosa-done-at-ohio-state-nfl-draft-stock-teams-that-make-sense-and-whats-next/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board - Oregon's Justin Herbert to be tested by gifted UW DBs (2. Bosa (2018: 14 tackles, 6 TFL for loss, 4 sacks, 1 Fumble recovery, TD (three games)):   Before suffering a core muscular injury that ultimately required surgery, Bosa lived up to his billing as a rare legitimate defensive Heisman contender and No. 1 overall candidate against TCU September 15, registering five tackles and a strip sack that resulted in a Ohio State touchdown. One shouldn’t blame Big Ten tackles or NFL scouts for confusing Nick with his older brother Joey as Bosa has emerged as one of the dominant defenders in the country. While perhaps slightly shorter than Joey, Nick offers a similar blend of power, technique, functional athleticism and instincts, making him arguably the safest NFL prospect in the country and a good bet to at least match Joey's No. 3 overall selection two years ago.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-oregon-s-justin-herbert-to-be-tested-by-gifted-uw-dbs-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State:  We're about a month away from potentially seeing Bosa on the field again. He's the best prospect in college football.) (10-10-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-lsu-cornerback-greedy-williams-nearing-top-of-the-list/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (1. Bosa: Bosa is still out indefinitely after having surgery on a core muscle injury.) (10-10-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2018 NFL Draft Big Board - New duo boost already dominant defensive line class (2.  Bosa (2018: 14 tackles, 6 TFL for loss, 4 sacks, 1 Fumble recovery, TD (three games)): Before suffering a core muscular injury that ultimately required surgery, Bosa lived up to his billing as a rare legitimate defensive Heisman contender and No. 1 overall candidate against TCU September 15, registering five tackles and a strip sack that resulted in a Ohio State touchdown. One shouldn’t blame Big Ten tackles or NFL scouts for confusing Nick with his older brother Joey as Bosa has emerged as one of the dominant defenders in the country. While perhaps slightly shorter than Joey, Nick offers a similar blend of power, technique, functional athleticism and instincts, making him arguably the safest NFL prospect in the country and a good bet to at least match Joey's No. 3 overall selection two years ago.) (10-4-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2018-nfl-draft-big-board-new-duo-boost-already-dominant-defensive-line-class-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State: There hasn't been anyone deserving the No. 1 spot other than the currently injured Bosa.) (10-3-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-nc-states-kelvin-harmon-joins-pack-of-receivers-in-top-20/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (1.  Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State. (Previously: 1 Avg. 1.8 per 6): Ohio State announced that Bosa is out indefinitely after having surgery on a core muscle injury. In Week 3 taking on TCU, Bosa had a strip-sack that was recovered by Ohio State for a touchdown, but that was also the game in which he sustained his injury. Bosa has four sacks, 14 tackles with six for a loss, and one forced fumble in 2018 over roughly two games of playing time.   In Week 1, Dre'Mont Jones and Bosa formed a lethal tandem who Oregon State was incapable of blocking. After coming close on a few plays, Bosa used his speed and strength to get to the quarterback for multiple sacks in the first half. The Beavers' offensive tackles were incapable of blocking Bosa, who constantly used speed to get upfield and active hands to knock down the blockers trying to get a hold of him. Bosa totaled two sacks, two fumble recoveries, one touchdown and four tackles for the contest despite only playing in the first half. He showed that he is an elite talent and a tremendous edge rusher. The Oregon State tape will help Bosa to grade out as a high first-round pick.) (10-3-18):   http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Rankings 2.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season (1. Bosa: Bosa was having a dominant season before suffering a core muscle injury against TCU 10 days ago. He is still the premier defensive talent in college football. -- DJ) (9-25-18):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000966534/article/rankings-20-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State:  Bosa had what his dad called "major surgery" per Ari Wasserman of The Athletic, and stated his son wouldn't even be reevaluated until November. Fortunately, it was only a groin injury, and Bosa should be able to get back to 100 percent before the end of the season. The question is ... have we seen the last of him in an Ohio State uniform? It's not a crazy question to pose because Bosa has already done enough to be widely considered a top 5 lock in next year's draft and a re-injury could really complicate things during the pre-draft process for the No. 1 prospect on my board.) (9-25-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-d-k-metcalf-climbs-into-top-20-after-another-game-with-big-plays/

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 4 (Down - Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State: Bosa is on the stock-down list temporarily, but that could quickly be reversed. Ohio State announced that Bosa is out indefinitely after having surgery on a core muscle injury. The 2019 NFL Draft is loaded with defensive line talent, so if Bosa were to miss the rest of the season or a large portion of it, that could cause teams to prefer some of the other talented defensive linemen because they are healthier and not carrying a medical red flag from their final season in college football. If Bosa gets back to the field and doesn't miss more than a handful of games, he could quickly illustrate why he is the No. 1 prospect on my 2019 NFL Draft Big Board. ) (9-25-18):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_04.php

NFLDraftScout.com Prospect Notebook: Week 5 (As it stands today, Ohio State junior defensive end Nick Bosa (6-3, 270, 4.76, #97) and Houston junior defensive tackle Ed Oliver (6-2, 290, 4.92, #10) will be heavy favorites to be the first two players off the board.)(9-24-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/nfldraftscout-com-prospect-notebook-week-5-ANpeh6VaeEeJFbu9ZUVRGg/

Nick Bosa has surgery for a core muscle injury, no timetable for return (9-20-18):   https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2018/09/nick_bosa_has_surgery_no_timet.html

Draft Prospect rankings: Alabama's next elite safety (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State: Before he went down with a groin injury, Bosa was a game-changer against TCU. No surprise. His strip sack in the end zone gave the Buckeyes six points and generated a handful of other pressures on the Horned Frogs quarterback. I'll certainly be monitoring his injury -- which isn't believed to be super serious -- but Bosa has a firm grasp on the top spot.) (9-19-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-alabamas-deionte-thompson-emerging-as-elite-safety-prospect/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (1.  Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State. (Previously: 1 Avg. 2.3 per): Taking on TCU, Bosa had a strip-sack that was recovered by Ohio State for a touchdown, but he also left the game early with a groin injury. Bosa is up to four sacks, 14 tackles with six for a loss, and one forced fumble in 2018.  In Week 1, Dre'Mont Jones and Bosa formed a lethal tandem who Oregon State was incapable of blocking. After coming close on a few plays, Bosa used his speed and strength to get to the quarterback for multiple sacks in the first half. The Beavers' offensive tackles were incapable of blocking Bosa, who constantly used speed to get upfield and active hands to knock down the blockers trying to get a hold of him. Bosa totaled two sacks, two fumble recoveries, one touchdown and four tackles for the contest despite only playing in the first half. He showed that he is an elite talent and a tremendous edge rusher. The Oregon State tape will help Bosa to grade out as a high first-round pick.) (9-19-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3 (1. NICK BOSA, OHIO STATE – EDGE DEFENDER: The nation’s best pass-rusher is at it again, winning 30.4 percent of his rushes this season to lead the country. PFF pass-rush production translates well at the next level and Bosa has two-plus years of elite-level grading.) (9-18-18):  PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3

Heisman Watch: PFF Heisman rankings after Week 3 (6. NICK BOSA, EDGE, OHIO STATE: There’s not much more you can say about our No. 1 player for the 2019 NFL Draft, our No. 1 player entering the 2018 season or our highest-ranked defensive player on the Heisman Watchlist. Bosa wins at will, earning a 30.9 percent pass-rush winning percentage, higher than any other FSB edge defender. Unfortunately for Bosa, his teammate in Haskins will largely get credit if the Buckeyes keep winning and an abdominal injury will keep him out of this week’s contest where he likely could have added to his sack totals, something he’ll need to do to stay on the national watch list. We, however, grade every play from every game and can truly pull out generational talents, and Bosa is that generational talent.) (9-18-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-heisman-watch-pff-heisman-rankings-after-week-3

Nick Bosa injury update: Ohio State DE out against Tulane (9-17-18):  http://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/news/nick-bosa-injury-update-ohio-state-de-out-vs-tulane-week-4-urban-meyer/s6uwqf4kphvv1qlbcu16setz0

The five best defensive players in college football through Week 3 (4. EDGE NICK BOSA, OHIO STATE 92.3: The No. 1 player in the PFF College 50 coming into the season, Bosa has lived up to the hype with the top grade among edge defenders and the No. 2 pass-rush grade at 91.0. He has four sacks, two QB hits and five hurries on only 69 rushes to go with nine other quick wins that didn’t make the stat sheet as pressures. It all adds up to a win percentage of 30.4, best among rushers with at least 60 attempts. Bosa has also played well against the run with an 85.2 grade that ranks ninth in the nation.) (9-17-18):    https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-college-the-five-best-defensive-players-in-football-week-3

Ohio State star defensive end Nick Bosa leaves game vs. TCU with apparent groin injury (9-15-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/ohio-state-star-defensive-end-nick-bosa-leaves-game-vs-tcu-with-apparent-groin-injury/

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Clemson's Dexter Lawrence proving to be more than space-eater (1. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State:  Bosa once again loaded the stat sheet for Ohio State with five solo tackles, three tackles for loss, and one sack against Rutgers. He quickly converted speed to power with extended arms into offensive linemen and countered if and when they stymied his initial rush. Like his brother, Bosa is calm and under control during his pass rush, and it allows him to quickly utilize one of his many moves to get to the quarterback. He's always throwing something different at blockers. After dominant performances against Bowling Green and Rutgers, he'll face stronger competition Saturday against TCU.) (9-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-clemsons-dexter-lawrence-proving-to-be-more-than-space-eater/

Walterfootball Big Board (1.  Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State. (Previously: 1 Avg. 2.7 per 3) - 09/12/18: Bosa added another sack and a handful of tackles against Rutgers. He is up to nine tackles with five for a loss and three sacks in 2018.  In Week 1, Dre'Mont Jones and Bosa formed a lethal tandem who Oregon State was incapable of blocking. After coming close on a few plays, Bosa used his speed and strength to get to the quarterback for multiple sacks in the first half. The Beavers' offensive tackles were incapable of blocking Bosa, who constantly used speed to get upfield and active hands to knock down the blockers trying to get a hold of him. Bosa totaled two sacks, two fumble recoveries, one touchdown and four tackles for the contest despite only playing in the first half. He showed that he is an elite talent and a tremendous edge rusher. The Oregon State tape will help Bosa to grade out as a high first-round pick.  08/30/18: Like his older brother Joey, Nick Bosa (6-3, 265) looks like an elite edge defender. He is fast off the edge with the ability fire by tackles to get upfield. Bosa has excellent hands, functional strength to fight off blocks, a burst to close, and puts quarterbacks down hard. In the ground game, Bosa is solid, but it is his pass-rush potential that excites.  Bosa had 34 tackles, 8.5 sacks, two passes batted and one forced fumble in 2017. He was the Buckeyes' best defensive end even though he rotated with Sam Hubbard, Tyquan Lewis and Jalyn Holmes. Bosa could explode as a junior now that those other three have left for the NFL, which should leave Bosa playing every down in 2018. As a freshman, Bosa played well for Ohio State, recording 29 tackles with seven tackles for a loss and five sacks.) (9-12-18):   http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

PFF NCAA Week 2 – Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER - Nick Bosa, Ohio State (Week 2 Grade: 84.8):  Let’s make it two from two for Bosa on this team after another five QB pressures and three other stops in run defense on just 37 snaps. Imagine the carnage he might cause if Ohio State kept him on the field for more than half a game?) (9-9-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-2-team-of-the-week

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: More D-linemen added after wowing in Week One (2. Bosa (2018: 9 tackles, 5 TFL for loss, 3 sacks, 1 Fumble recovery, TD (two games)):  One shouldn’t blame Big Ten tackles or NFL scouts for confusing Nick with his older brother Joey as Bosa has emerged as one of the dominant defenders in the country. While perhaps slightly shorter than Joey, Nick offers a similar blend of power, technique, functional athleticism and instincts, making him arguably the safest NFL prospect in the country and a good bet to at least match Joey's No. 3 overall selection two years ago.) (9-6-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-more-d-linemen-added-after-wowing-in-week-one-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Stock (up - Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State:  Jones and Bosa were a lethal tandem who the Beavers were incapable of blocking. After coming close on a few plays, Bosa used his speed and strength to get to the quarterback for multiple sacks in the first half. The Beavers' offensive tackles were incapable of blocking Bosa, as he constantly used speed to get upfield and active hands to knock down blockers trying to get a hold of him. Bosa totaled two sacks, two fumble recoveries, one touchdown and four tackles despite only playing in the first half. He showed that he is an elite talent and a tremendous edge rusher. That tape will help Bosa to grade out as a high first-round pick.) (9-5-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_01.php

PFF NCAA Week 1 – Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER - Nick Bosa, Ohio State (Week 1 grade: 91.3):  Well, we told you he was going to be good but I don’t think we’ll be making many claims about prescience. It only took 35 snaps for Bosa to pick up two sacks, a hit and a hurry and make two stops in the running game as well. Expect this to be the first of many appearances on this team.) (9-2-18):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-1-team-of-the-week

Ranking the top 25 prospects in 2018: Bosa's bro to wreak havoc? (1. Bosa:  Bosa is a dominant D-lineman and he plays with flawless technique. He's the most complete player in college football. -- DJ) (8-30-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000952266/article/ranking-the-top-25-prospects-in-the-2018-college-football-season

2019 NFL Draft: Ohio State's two Round 1 defensive linemen and supremely gifted corner (Nick Bosa, EDGE:  What else can I say about Bosa before the college football season gets underway? He's currently my No. 1 overall prospect in the 2019 draft class. My pro comparison for him is ... his brother. He's a stud. I couldn't locate a clear-cut hole in his game. He's twitchy, decently bendy, utilizes his hands well at the point of attack, plays with power, and has a relentless motor.  With a quarterback class lacking the star power of the 2018 group, he has a real shot to be the second edge-rusher to be grabbed with the top pick in the draft in the past three years. I expect a boost in production from his 8.5-sack, 16.0-tackle-for-loss campaign in 2017. Joey might have been slightly more athletic. Nick seems stronger.) (8-14-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-ohio-states-two-round-1-defensive-linemen-and-supremely-gifted-corner/

2019 NFL Draft prospect rankings -- top 5 at every position (1. Nick Bosa, Ohio State: Strengths – One of the most technically-sound pass-rushers with his hand usage that you’ll ever see in college football.  Room to improve in 2018 – Still has too many ugly, off-balance reps that see him ending up on the ground.) (8-14-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-5-at-every-position

Scouting the Big 10 - Ohio State (Nick Bosa finally becomes draft eligible after two outstanding seasons. The junior is a terrific pass rusher who constantly disrupts the action off the edge. Bosa plays with great balance and body control and shows good speed up the field. He parallels his brother Joey in many ways, as I doubt Nick wows anyone with great workout numbers in the lead-up to the draft, but his tape will determine his grade.) (7-19-18): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-big-10-ohio-state

2018 college football season: Top 11 defensive linemen to watch (2.  Bosa:  The compact, powerfully built Bosa has been consistently productive from the moment he put on the Ohio State uniform. Bosa has quality tape as a 4-3 defensive end and as an interior rusher in sub packages. He's extremely challenging to block thanks to his initial quickness, pad level, and formidable upper-body strength that allows him to disengage quickly as he slithers past blockers. He's not as smooth in his pass-rush approach as his older brother Joey Bosa, but he flashes similar potential to impact the run at the point of attack.) (7-13-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000940247/article/2018-college-football-season-top-11-defensive-linemen-to-watch

Who Are the Defensive Linemen Expected to Dominate the 2019 NFL Draft? (DE Nick Bosa, junior, Ohio State: He came to Columbus with all kinds of expectations: a five-star ranking, following his brother who was a national champion and the third pick in the draft. To top it off, he needed to win a job in a crowded defensive-line group. By Year 2, he was conference defensive player of the year, even though he wasn’t a full-time starter. He’s almost certain to be a top-five pick in the draft.) (7-12-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/07/12/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-linemen-nick-bosa-dexter-lawrence

Ohio State DE Nick Bosa — Nick Bosa on track to follow in Pro Bowl brother's footsteps (7-2-18):   http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/07/02/gabriels-early-2019-nfl-draft-breakdown-ohio-state-de-nick-bosa/adt39pa/

NFL Draft Defender Ranks (1.  Nick Bosa (6’4/263) is a clone of his brother Joey, except that he may be a slightly better athlete. Playing in a rotation amid one of college football’s deepest defensive lines last year—and consistently facing multiple blockers—Bosa managed 8.5 sacks and 16 TFL. Bosa wins with a blend of quickness, power and sheer effort. He, Ed Oliver and Justin Herbert are the three likeliest players to hear their name called at 1.1 next year.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks

Scouting Nick Bosa: Ohio State DE dominant like brother Joey (6-5-18):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000935834/article/scouting-nick-bosa-ohio-state-de-dominant-like-brother-joey

Brugler: Early Top 12 prospects for 2019 NFL Draft (2. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State (6-4, 265, 4.67, junior):  With his muscular, flexible frame and tendency to routinely be in the face of quarterbacks, he looks like a carbon copy of his older brother Joey. The No. 97 jersey number doesn't hurt either. And like Joey, Nick has an advanced understanding of hand use at the top of his rush.) (6-4-18): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/brugler-early-top-12-prospects-for-2019-nfl-draft-g3Y8aWBH3EmWOgw8z-eLjA/

2019 Prospect Peek: Ohio State DE Nick Bosa (5-31-18):  https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/2019-prospect-peek-ohio-state-de-nick-bosa-g6E6cWX0F0elDvbzHlr5xQ/

2019 NFL Draft: An early introduction to nine of the potential top defensive linemen (Nick Bosa, EDGE, Ohio State:  Experience: Has appeared in 27 games in his first two seasons for the Buckeyes. Tallied seven tackles for loss and five sacks as a freshman and 8.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss in 2017. He also forced one fumble and defended two passes during his sophomore season.  Strengths: Requisite size and impressive length. Suddenness and fluidity in hips immediately stand out. Inside counter looks effortless and effective. Doesn't get complacent during his rush. Constantly uses his hands to keep offensive linemen off him and maintains his speed while doing so. Strength (mainly for bull rushes) is good, not great. Can flatten well at times and showed flashes of outstanding speed-to-power rushes. Utilizes a swift swim move. Overall, martial-artist like hand work, plus change-of-direction ability. Refined edge-rusher during 2017 season as 19/20 year old. Weaknesses: His bend to the quarterback leaves a bit to be desired. Could stand to get a little stronger up top.  Early comparison: Joey Bosa ) (5-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-an-early-introduction-to-the-potential-top-dl-in-next-years-draft-nick-bosa/

18 for '18: Defensive prospects who will be NFL stars (2. Bosa:  The best reason for anticipation about Bosa's 2018 season is that we should get to see him play on more of a full-time basis. You'd think the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year would've never come off the field, but OSU rotated four talented defensive ends through both end positions -- Bosa and three 2018 draft picks ( Sam Hubbard, Jalyn Holmes, Tyquan Lewis). Bosa's advanced technique and explosive quickness make comparisons to his older brother, Los Angeles Chargers star Joey, very easy.) (5-22-18):http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000933757/article/18-for-18-defensive-prospects-who-will-be-nfl-stars



DE Brian Burns:

Scouting Reports:

Walterfootball:  http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2019bburns.php

Lions draft prospect of the day: Florida State EDGE Brian Burns:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/02/04/brian-burns-scouting-report-detroit-lions-2019-nfl-draft/
Articles:

U-M DE Gary, LB Bush among NFL combine winners (Winners - 5. Brian Burns, DE, Florida State: Another player who won at weigh-ins, Burns added more than 20 pounds to his frame by coming in at 249. He carried it well, placing second among defensive linemen in the 40 (4.53) and gliding around throughout his workout. Operating at his best when he's pairing his pass-rush savvy with his well-rounded athleticism (as shown by a 7.01 three-cone drill, 36-inch vertical and 10-9 broad jump), Burns can be a consistently disruptive threat off the edge.) (3-5-19):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2019/03/05/nfl-combine-winners-losers-dk-metcalf-montez-sweat-draft-stock/3049233002/

2019 NFL Combine Stock Report: Defensive Linemen (Up - Brian Burns posted some great numbers at the combine, but those were expected. Burns was always seen as a better athlete than a football player, and that was demonstrated when he leapt a 10-foot-9 broad jump, then ran a 4.53 40 with a 1.61 10-yard split. I wasn't going to give a stock-up arrow to Burns because this was expected, but Burns earned one for his great work in the field drills. He looked natural in them, and his excellent performance in those could pus him into the first round.) (3-3-19):  http://walterfootball.com/combine2019stockDL.php

Sunday's 2019 Combine winners: EDGE rushers (Burns may have locked himself up a top-8 selection in the draft after he proved he can carry more weight (checked in at 249 pounds), maintaining an elite level of athleticism, running a 4.53 (40) with a 1.61 (10), and dominating in the drills. Bending the edge and dropping into coverage, Burns looked incredibly smooth and comfortable in every situation.) (3-3-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/sundays-2019-combine-winners-edge-rushers/

2019 NFL Scouting Combine: EDGE winners, losers from Sunday (Winners - Burns was fantastic on Sunday, posting some of the best times at his position across the board. A 4.59 40-yard dash, 7.01 3-cone, and 10-foot-9 broad jump highlighted his explosiveness and quick feet.  Burns was solid through on-field drills, showing great change of direction and the ability to turn the corner, as he’s one of the best at doing so on film. He looked like a natural out in space and tracking the ball, illustrating the capability to drop back into coverage.  Burns already had some of the best tape of any prospect in the draft, so this combine performance should lock him into the draft’s top 20 selections.) (3-3-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-edge-defender-winners-losers-montez-sweat/

Combine takeaways: Big day for D-linemen (Florida State's Brian Burns had the second-best 40 at his position with a 4.53, a great time after he measured in at a heavier-than-expected 249 pounds. He was solid running through early drills but really came on toward the end, showing great change of direction and the ability to turn the corner to chase down ball-carriers. He looked like a natural out in space and tracking the ball. The team that drafts him will want to utilize all his skills and potentially have him in a Bruce Irvin-type role where he can rush the passer but also cover the field.) (3-3-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-results-montez-sweat-quinnen-williams-devin-white-josh-allen-dominate/

No Sweat, Mississippi State edge rusher leads dominant DL group at Combine (Florida State’s Brian Burns also changed his narrative, looking like greased lightning personified in running a 4.53 at 6-5, 249 pounds – over 20 pounds heavier than he played just three months ago for the Seminoles.) (3-3-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/no-sweat-mississippi-state-edge-rusher-leads-dominant-dl-group-at-combine-lIYXFAHcLk6MN-tMaysgUg/

Brian Burns moves into the conversation for the Lions at No. 8 overall (3-3-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/brian-burns-moves-into-the-conversation-for-the-lions-at-no-8-overall/

Top linemen and linebackers for Lions from NFL Combine (Burns is an athletic freak as well given his speed on the outside and ability to get after the pocket. He also showed some great hands as well picking some passes thrown in his direction on the field drills. Burns moves around well and the Lions could do a lot worse than grabbing him early in this draft as he showed to have all the tools to impress on the field in drills and the measurables as well.) (3-3-19):  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/ContentGallery/NFL-Combine-top-linemen-linebackers-for-Lions-129680744/

Combine: Oliver, Burns win weigh-ins (Winners - Brian Burns, Florida State. There were rumblings Burns would weigh in somewhere in the 230s, a development that would've raised red flags as someone without the bulk to hold up on the edge at the NFL level. To nearly hit the 250-pound mark is an enormous win for the Seminoles star with immense talent and loads of length.) (3-1-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-ed-oliver-brian-burns-among-winners-as-dls-edges-lbs-weigh-in-and-get-measured/

NFL Combine 2019: The 10 prospects with the most on the line in Indianapolis (Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State:  While his entire performance is critical, the most vital aspect for Burns in Indianapolis will be when he stands on the scale. While listed at 6-5 and 235 pounds during 2018, NFL.com has him at 227. When responding to a question as to why Burns was listed so low, NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein sent this tweet in the article.  So, the call for Burns to add weight are not unfounded. And they're pretty serious. We're talking a Barkevious Mingo profile if the Florida State star is 6-5 and around 235 pounds. Maybe it won't impact his draft position, but Burns almost has to (at least) hit the 240-pound mark to build a solid foundation for a successful NFL career. Burns is more talented than Mingo was, and he's more advanced as a pass rusher than 6-6, 244-pound quasi-bust Leonard Floyd who did go in the top 10 of the 2016 Draft. Mingo went No. 6 overall.  As far as the drills, the three cone is the one to watch with Burns. Anything under 7.00 seconds will be acceptable. I won't be surprised if he goes way under that time. He's one bendy dude.) (2-27-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2019-prospects-with-the-most-on-the-line-in-indianapolis/

Who and what to watch at the 2019 NFL Combine: EDGE rusher (Brian Burns, Florida State (Suggested by: Bryce Rossler and Scott Warheit):  Do you like Gary’s run stuffing potential, but desire Polite’s ability to rush the passer and be position flexible? If you said yes, then Burns may be the player for you. His biggest obstacle to being a top-10 pick is his weight, listed at 236-pounds at Florida State, but recent reports have him listed at 246, a much more acceptable range for the Lions scheme.
As Rossler pointed out in his evaluation of Burns, “(he) will need to add weight and functional strength while maintaining his athletic gifts”. If the weight gain proves to be true at the Combine, Burns will have to illustrate that he is still an elite athlete and can maintain his added bulk. If he can, he will very much be in play at pick 8.) (2-27-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/02/26/who-what-watch-2019-nfl-combine-edge-rusher/

NFL Draft 2019: A big board of the top 25 Lions targets entering the combine (14. Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State:  If the Lions find themselves drawn to untapped potential, they could fall in love with Brian Burns. He was a productive player at Florida State, totaling 23 sacks in three years, but he never topped out at more than 10 in a season. More than that, his frame might not be ready for the NFL as he might not even be 240 pounds. He has the length, and he shows explosion off the snap, but his game comes with lows when he's stuck on blockers. He's likely to be a swing-for-the-fences type of pick, but the combine will be critical for judging just where his frame is.) (2-26-19):  https://expo.mlive.com/sports/g66l-2019/02/25732221735574/nfl-draft-2019-a-big-board-of-the-top-50-lions-targets-entering-the-combine.html

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine II (Up - Burns: In speaking to a handful of teams over the past months, all of them had a second-day grade on Burns. There are not 32 players with first-round grades, however, so some second-round talents will get selected on the opening night of the 2019 NFL Draft. Team sources say that Burns is expected to be a workout star at the combine and at his pro day as he has good length and is very athletic, and fast. The things he lacks are weight and strength, but in the workout time of year, those issues get masked by speed and athleticism with players working out in shorts with no blocking. Teams also say that Burns is getting good marks for his makeup, so that should help him in team interviews. With some good workouts, Burns has a shot at being a pick in the back half of the first round because there are some teams that really like him, even if most are grading him on Day 2.) (2-26-19):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_23.php

Nick Bosa Is Ready to Go at the NFL Combine, and More Updates Ahead of Indy (9. Florida State pass rusher Brian Burns is another pass rusher who has a real shot to help himself. I heard he’s weighing in the mid-to-high 240s now (he was listed at 236 at FSU last year). Given the type of explosive athlete he’s shown to be, teams are excited to see what kind of vertical he puts up.) (2-25-19):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/02/25/nfl-combine-2019-nick-bosa-kyler-murray-rashan-gary

NFL combine 2019: Nick Bosa, Rashan Gary headline deep crop of EDGE players (Brian Burns, Florida State:  I don't know if he's exactly a fit for this defense or not, but I'm intrigued by this mid-round prospect. At 6-foot-5 and 227 pounds, he's way too lean to play the edge in the NFL. He must add weight. That said, he's also an elite speed rusher who comes off the edge as fast as anyone I've seen in this class. He had 10 sacks last year, a team high, and finished with 15.5 tackles for loss overall. He might just be a pass rusher at the next level, given his size, or perhaps he could be used in space as a hybrid linebacker. I don't know. But as a beat writer covering a team that loves hybrid players who play multiple positions, and badly needs more speed on defense, I'm intrigued.) (2-19-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/02/03a3818f381488/nfl-combine-2019-joey-bosa-rashan-gary-headline-deep-crop-of-edge-players-.html

2019 Combine Preview: Edge rusher (Brian Burns - Best trait: He’s a game wrecker. He possess speed, power and a variety of pass rush moves. He’s considered by most analysts to be the most complete edge rusher in this class, and could go No. 1 overall.  Concern: A core muscle injury suffered Week 3 forced him to miss the rest of this past year as he decided to prepare for the draft instead of return to Ohio State late in the year. The medical evaluations will obviously be important to make sure he’s 100 percent.  Skinny: There are a lot of comparisons to his older brother Joey, who’s become one of the best pass rushers in the NFL. The two have a similar build and playing style, and the younger Bosa should be able to come in and make an impact right away just like his brother did.) (2-15-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2019-combine-preview-edge-rusher

Brian Burns: 2019 NFL Draft Film Room (2-14-19):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-film-room-brian-burns

Pass-rushers to target in the 2019 NFL Draft and free agency (BRIAN BURNS, FLORIDA STATE EDGE:  Though he doesn’t get the same love as Bosa and Allen do at the top of the draft, Florida State’s Brian Burns is loaded with pass-rushing talent. His 90.4 pass-rush grade tied for eighth at his position this past season, and he ranked third in the country in total pressures with 66.) (2-12-19):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-pass-rushers-to-target-in-the-2019-nfl-draft-and-free-agency

Lions draft: Which defender to take in Round 1? (First Round - OLB Brian Burns, Florida State:  There’s a lot of pass rushers on this list because, well, that's the Lions' biggest need. Burns will need to add weight to play right end, but he had an impressive 10-sack season.) (2-5-19):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/02/05/detroit-lions-2019-nfl-draft-prospects/2776240002/

10 defensive ends the Detroit Lions could target in NFL draft (Burns may need to add weight to play on the edge in a 4-3 scheme but is coming off a productive junior season in which he finished with 52 tackles, including 15.5 for a loss, 10 sacks, eight quarterback hurries, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. He is a potential first-round pick.) (1-17-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/fa9ca596088576/10-defensive-ends-the-detroit-lions-could-target-in-nfl-draft.html

Draft: Analysis of top underclassmen (Brian Burns, Florida State:  Tall, lanky, flexible speed-rusher with a good inside counter and some pass-rushing moves who lacks weight.) (1-15-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-here-are-the-top-underclassman-draft-prospects-you-need-to-know/

Brian Burns called draft answer for Lions (1-12-19):  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Lions-draft-answer-Brian-Burns-127719448/

Teams Don't See Burns as Top-10 Pick (1-2-19):  http://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Teams-Don't-See-Burns-as-Top-10-Pick

Prospects: Who should stay, go (Brian Burns, Florida State:  Burns is a long-limbed, lanky edge-rusher who flourished on a disappointing Florida State defense in 2018. He had 10 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss to go along with 52 total tackles and three forced fumbles. He wins with explosiveness off the ball, flashes of impressive bend, and an inside move.  Should he stay or go? Stay. Hear me out on this. Burns is not undersized ... he's just underweight. After solely winning on his athleticism alone in his first two seasons for the Seminoles, Burns started to show some counter moves and hand use as a junior. With another offseason to get bigger and stronger, Burns would have a complete arsenal as a pass-rusher and would probably garner top 10 or even top overall pick hype in 2020. ) (12-4-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-underclassmen-tracker-who-should-declare-who-should-go-back-to-school/

Trevor Lawrence, Travis Etienne headline PFF's 2018 All-ACC selections (EDGE DEFENDER - First Team: Brian Burns, Florida State: Through the regular season and all the conference championships, Burns still holds the edge of Ohio State’s Chase Young with a national-best 69 total QB pressures.) (12-3-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-lawrence-etienne-2018-all-acc-selections

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 13 (Slider - Brian Burns, DE, Florida State:  Burns had an ugly game against the Gators. While taking on a bad offensive tackle in Martez Ivey, Burns was a non-factor. He got in on a few runs, but Florida kept him from making any big plays. Ivey was dominated in many games this year, including embarrassing performances versus Josh Allen of Kentucky and Montez Sweat of Mississippi State. Against Florida, it became obvious that Burns was not of the same caliber as those defenders. The Florida tape illustrates that Burns should return for his senior year and get stronger before going to the NFL.) (11-27-18):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_13.php

Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Brian Burns, OLB/DE, Florida State:  “The concern is going to be his weight, he is in the high 220s right now, so he’s kind of a sinewy body type. The two guys that I have done that were in the high 220s that were really good pass rushers coming out were Bruce Irvin and Vic Beasley, and he is probably a looser athlete than both those guys. Really fun to watch on tape because when he knows he is going to get the QB, he can go get him. He can change directions, he has really good countermoves, his takeoff is great, he can win with speed off the edge. The question is going to be what will he do on first or second down; he will have a bullseye on his chest until he bulks up and can hold up against the run. If you draft him, you know he can be a factor right away as a sub-downs player.”) (11-21-18):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (20. Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State: Burns has started to lean on an effective pass-rushing move -- an inside swim. I'd still like to see more of a humming motor from him, especially when he's utilizing his speed rush to the outside.) (11-14-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-zach-allen-has-the-power-refined-game-to-be-star-defensive-lineman/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (49.  Brian Burns, DE, Florida State.) (11-13-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Quinnen Williams closing in on Ed Oliver as top DT prospect (20. Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State: Collectively, NC State probably has the best offensive line in the ACC, and Burns had a good, not great performance in Florida State's loss to the Wolfpack. To me, he is just reaching his potential as a football player.) (11-7-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-quinnen-williams-closing-in-on-ed-oliver-as-top-dt-prospect/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (49.  Brian Burns, DE, Florida State.) (11-7-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 Draft Prospect Rankings: WRs Harmon, Johnson can do it all (20. Brian Burns, DE, Florida State: Burns didn't get onto the stat sheet with a sack or tackle for loss against Clemson's sturdy offensive line, but I liked what I saw in regards to his motor and hand usage. Because he's so fluid in his hips, he can re-route himself so quickly to get inside after starting an outside rush or vice versa.) (10-31-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-wrs-kelvin-harmon-anthony-johnson-put-their-complete-games-on-display/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (49.  Brian Burns, DE, Florida State.) (10-31-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

NFL Prospect Matchups: Clemson vs Florida State (Brian Burns, a week eight riser, has been tough to stop all season long.  From the first game of the campaign against Virginia Tech, he’s been an incessant nuisance to opponents.  Burns is quick, explosive and very athletic.  He shows great speed off the edge, easily moves around the field and makes plays in every direction.  He’s the type of pass rusher that could give Hyatt fits.  On the other hand if the Clemson tackle shuts down Burns, it will be a game scouts point to in war rooms next April.) (10-26-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/nfl-prospect-matchups-clemson-vs-florida-state

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Washington's Ben Burr-Kirven the new-age linebacker prototype (16. Brian Burns, DE, Florida State
I'd like to see more high-energy plays from Burns on the edge, but when his motor's humming, he can deliver excellent pass-rushing reps. Beyond the speed at which he turns the corner and his length to get strip sacks, Burns has a nice crossover move to the inside, which keeps offensive tackles honest.) (10-24-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-washingtons-ben-burr-kirven-the-new-age-linebacker-prototype/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (49. Brian Burns) (10-24-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Rankings 3.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season  (21. Burns:  Burns is a long, lean edge rusher with outstanding burst and bend coming off the edge. He does need to get physically stronger, though. -- DJ) (10-23-18):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000977769/article/rankings-30-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season

2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 8 (14. BRIAN BURNS, FLORIDA STATE – EDGE DEFENDER (Week 3 Draft Board rank: 24th (+10)):  Burns leads the nation in pressures with 46, six more than the next closest FBS defender.) (10-22-18):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2019-nfl-draft-board-32-prospects-week-8

Risers and Sliders -- Week 8 (Risers - Brian Burns/Edge/Florida State: Burns could’ve been added to the risers list any number of weeks this season, but as he was tearing up opposing offenses, opponents were tearing up Florida State. The Seminoles have seemingly turned the corner, and Burns was terrific during their win over Wake Forest. He finished the game with four tackles including two for loss, two sacks and two hurries. His fourth-down sack early in the game when Wake Forest owned a 10-point lead and was driving for another score changed the momentum of the game. In seven games this season, Burns has recorded nine sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss. I graded him as a second-round prospect in July and would not be surprised if Burns slides into the first round.) (10-22-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/risers-sliders-week-8

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (50.  Brian Burns, DE, Florida State.) (10-17-18):
http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (19. Brian Burns, DE, Florida State:  Burns had two sacks and two forced fumbles in Florida State's loss to Miami. I'm not going label him as "timid," but I would like to see more aggression at the point of attack and better "finishes" at the quarterback. Yes, this is nit-picking. It's only because Burns as All-Pro potential.) (10-10-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-lsu-cornerback-greedy-williams-nearing-top-of-the-list/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (50. Brian Burns, DE, Florida State.) (10-10-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (18. Brian Burns, DE, Florida State: Back into the top 20 for Burns after an impressive showing against Louisville in Florida State's comeback victory. His rapid spin move was effective early, and he used a smooth side step and dip around the corner when rushing to the outside. I'd still like to see more power out of Burns, but he's a specimen who's shown the ability to be productive on edge of the Seminoles defense.) (10-3-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-nc-states-kelvin-harmon-joins-pack-of-receivers-in-top-20/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (50.  Brian Burns, DE, Florida State.) (10-3-18):   http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Draft Prospect rankings: Alabama's next elite safety (16. Brian Burns, DE, Florida State: Burns cramped up during Florida State's stunning loss to Syracuse, but I noticed more refined hand usage at the point of attack when getting after the quarterback and when setting the edge against the run. If his skill set continues to trend upward, with his length and inherent athleticism, Burns could be a top 10 pick.) (9-19-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-alabamas-deionte-thompson-emerging-as-elite-safety-prospect/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (47. Brian Burns, DE, Florida State. (Previously: 47 Avg. 32.5 per 4)) (9-19-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3 (24. BRIAN BURNS, FLORIDA STATE – EDGE DEFENDER: An athletic projection coming into the season, Burns is tapping into his potential with a 79.8 pass-rush grade this year. There’s still more work to do as he posted good, not great, production last season, but he’s trending positively after three weeks of action.) (9-18-18):  PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3

2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Clemson's Dexter Lawrence proving to be more than space-eater (10. Brian Burns, DE, Florida State:  Though it was against Samford's offensive line, Burns was seemingly in the backfield near the quarterback on every third pass-rushing snap. Some of those plays he was -- purposely? -- unblocked, and on others his electric burst off the snap was the reason he was able to wreak havoc. He reminds me a lot of how Clelin Ferrell was a season ago. Ridiculously long and athletic but in need of a stable of pass-rushing moves to rely on throughout a game.) (9-12-18):https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-clemsons-dexter-lawrence-proving-to-be-more-than-space-eater/

Walterfootball Big Board (47.  Brian Burns, DE, Florida State (Previously: 18 Avg. 28 per 3)) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 2 (Down - Brian Burns, DE, Florida State:  Team sources say they like the potential of Burns, but he needs more development at the college level. Evaluators who have scouted Burns in person this year say that he is too light for the NFL and is going to get pushed around by NFL offensive tackles. Burns has good speed, athleticism, and pass-rush potential. However, sources feel he has to gain more weight and get stronger to hold up. They think that Burns should return to Florida State for his senior year to get stronger in 2019, and another year in Tallahassee could give Burns a higher grade for the 2020 NFL Draft.) (9-11-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_02.php

20 PFF college stats to know from week 2 (Brian Burns, edge, Florida State:  Leading all edge defenders in Week 2, Burns racked up 10 total QB pressures on 49 pass-rush snaps.) (9-9-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-20-pff-stats-to-know-from-week-2

FSU's Brian Burns takes Myles Garrett comparison in stride, prepares for breakout year (8-15-18):   https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/florida-state-seminoles/chopping-block/os-sp-fsu-brian-burns-20180815-story.html

Scouting the ACC - Florida State (I was very impressed with Brian Burns from a distance during the 2017 season, and after breaking down his film this summer, I believe he’s a better pro prospect than the highly touted Josh Sweat.  Burns is more natural rushing the passer and slightly quicker as well as more explosive and more adept at making plays in any direction of the field. He’s also lighter than Sweat and was a liability defending the run last season.  In a perfect world, Burns stands up in a 3-4 alignment rather than lining up at end in a four-man front. I presently grade Burns as a second-round selection, but there has been first-round talk surrounding him in the scouting community.) (7-30-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-acc-florida-state-0

2019 NFL Draft: Talented underclassmen to watch during the 2018 college football season (Defensive line - Brian Burns, Florida State:  Burns was a four-star recruit and the No. 46 overall player in the high school class of 2016 according to 247 Sports, and he's thrived since his first season for the Seminoles. The menacing defensive end had three tackles for loss and two sacks in his first collegiate game in September of 2016. In total, Burns has 13 quarterback takedowns and 23 tackles behind the line in his two seasons in Tallahassee and has grown into his 6-5 frame. He could add even more weight -- he's now listed at 231 -- which would help him convert impressive speed off the edge into power at the point of attack.  Now a true junior, Burns is Florida State's clear-cut best pass-rusher. His combination of explosiveness and length will give many ACC offensive tackles fits throughout the season. If he eclipses double-digit tackles for loss (again) and nears 10 sacks while displaying some hand usage to go along with his springy athleticism, he'll have the makeup to be an early-round selection if he decides to enter the 2019 draft.) (6-15-18):https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-talented-underclassmen-to-watch-during-the-2018-college-football-season-1/

DE Jaylon Ferguson:

2019 NFL Combine Draft Rumor Mill: Eight Teams Project Jaylon Ferguson on Day 2 or Later (2-27-19):  http://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Eight-Teams-Project-Jaylon-Ferguson-on-Day-2-or-Later

Who and what to watch at the 2019 NFL Combine: EDGE rusher (Jaylon Ferguson, La Tech (Suggested by: Jeff Risdon):  Ok, we’re cheating a little bit here as Ferguson had his on-field workout privileges pulled from the Combine, but he will still get a chance to attend the event for medicals and if the NFL allows interviews, they could go a long way to determining how interested the Lions are in him. The Lions put in a lot of work on him for their down defensive end role during the year and at the Senior Bowl, so he is most likely still on their board, just where is unclear.) (2-27-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/02/26/who-what-watch-2019-nfl-combine-edge-rusher/

Ten bold predictions for the 2019 NFL Scouting Combine (3. No one has more on the line than Colorado State WR Preston Williams:  Sure, timed events like the 40-yard dash are important for Williams but for he, Mississippi State's Simmons and Louisiana Tech defensive end Jaylon Ferguson - the three talented players only begrudgingly invited to the Combine this year due to off-field issues - the interview process is absolutely critical. By remaining at Mississippi State and Louisiana Tech throughout their respective careers, Simmons and Ferguson had time to build relationships with their coaching staffs. Williams, a Tennessee transfer and former five-star recruit, did not have as much time to do so at Colorado State, starring only one year there. Given his talent and off-field concerns, Williams might be the most polarizing prospect in the draft.) (2-25-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/ten-bold-predictions-for-the-2019-nfl-scouting-combine-Pujzj6Cxwk-9WVKUKgV1Xw/

$.05 For President's Day (The NCAA’s all-time sack leader is Jaylon Ferguson, who broke Terrell Suggs’ mark in Louisiana Tech’s last game. Ferguson is a likely top-100 prospect, but he won’t be performing at the Combine, either.  Ferguson had his invitation withdrawn after the Combine organizers decided a misdemeanor simple battery charge before he ever played a down of college football was serious enough to keep him out. Never mind that Ferguson has stayed out of trouble for four years since. Never mind they allowed folks guiltier of far more insidious and serious immature nefariousness have been venerated in Indianapolis on a yearly basis. Never mind the above context of Kareem Hunt signing a fresh deal.  The NFL’s seemingly random, reactionary and ridiculously loose application of discipline remains a major issue. Ferguson is unfortunately caught in the crossfire. At least they’ve now decided he can have the medical examinations in Indy, which is the primary reason the Combine exists at all.) (2-18-19):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3139/$05-For-Presidents-Day

UPDATE - Jaylon Ferguson and Modified Combine Invitations (2-15-19):  http://draftanalyst.com/update-jaylon-ferguson-modified-combine-invitations

Three prospects allowed at combine for med. evals (Ferguson, Simmons, Williams) (2-15-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001018062/article/ferguson-others-allowed-at-combine-for-medical-evals

Jaylon Ferguson's agent releases statement after combine invite rescinded (2-14-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/02/14/2019-nfl-draft-combine-jaylon-ferguson/

Top pass rushing prospect Jaylon Ferguson has his combine invite yanked (2-14-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/02/14/jaylon-ferguson-nfl-scouting-combine-detroit-lions/

Lions draft: Which defender to take in Round 1? (Second Round - DE Jaylon Ferguson, Louisiana Tech:  If the Lions don’t take a defensive end up top, they'll need to grab one on Day 2. Ferguson played well at the Senior Bowl and holds the NCAA record for career sacks.) (2-5-19):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/02/05/detroit-lions-2019-nfl-draft-prospects/2776240002/

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Post-Senior Bowl (Up - Jaylon Ferguson, DE/OLB, Louisiana Tech: Montez Sweat was the talk of Senior Bowl, but Ferguson had a solid week as well. He showed good speed off the edge with natural pass-rushing skills. The 6-foot-4, 256-pounder needs to get stronger if he gets drafted into a 4-3 defenses. Some team sources are very intrigued with Ferguson and think he could be a nice value pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Ferguson probably won't get out of the second round, and he might sneak into Round 1.) (2-5-19):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_20.php

10 players who impressed at Senior Bowl practices (Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech, 6-4, 256:  The NCAA’s all-time leading sack man broke Terrell Suggs’ record this year by recording his 45th career sack in Tech’s bowl game. Ferguson is on the South Team, but got a shout out from North Team head coach Jon Gruden on the NFL Network Wednesday after Gruden watched the tape of Ferguson’s first practice on Tuesday. His size and quickness could allow him to play in multiple schemes utilizing many techniques, though he does prefer to play with his hand in the dirt.) (1-25-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-players-who-impressed-at-senior-bowl-practices

A Senior Bowl pass rusher for every round for the Lions (Second round: Jaylon Ferguson, Louisiana Tech:  The NCAA’s career leader in sacks nicely fits the Lions profile. He offers length, a quick first step and a preference for playing with his hands off the ground.  Ferguson did better in team drills in the South practice sessions than he did the individual drills, including a violent termination of an edge run where he effectively stacked and shed the block to make a play.) (1-25-19):   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/01/25/senior-bowl-pass-rusher-for-every-round-detroit-lions/

2019 Senior Bowl: Thursday Rumor Mill (Team sources said that the most impressive prospects to them were three edge rushers. They said the best of the group on Tuesday was Mississippi State's Montez Sweat. A little bit behind him was Louisiana Tech's Jaylon Ferguson, and a bit behind Ferguson was Granderson. All three of them showed speed, functional strength, and natural feel as pass rushers.   Sources said Sweat (6-6, 252) entered the Senior Bowl as a prospect some saw as a late first-round or early second-round pick. Back at the East-West Shrine, some sources asked me if I thought Sweat would get to Round 2, and I said no. If he continues this caliber of play throughout the week of practice in Mobile, there will be no doubt that Sweat ends up being a first-round pick.  Ferguson (6-4, 256) has some fans and skeptics in the scouting community, but a big week in Mobile could put him in the first round conversation. Granderson (6-4, 246) is more of a second-day prospect, but he could be helping himself to move up in Day 2.  Sweat, Ferguson and Granderson all must add weight and strength for run defense in the NFL. They also would probably fit best in a 3-4 defense as outside linebackers. Opinions will vary, and some sources will prefer other players, but those were the three that some team sources said performed the best.) (1-24-19):  http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2019rumors4.php

Jeremiah's five standouts from Senior Bowl Day 2 (All-time great a trusted advisor for NCAA sacks leader: Edge rusher Jaylon Ferguson might come from a small school, but at Louisiana Tech, he's found a big-time resource.  A Hall of Fame resource, in fact.  Willie Roaf, the former Louisiana Tech offensive lineman who made 11 Pro Bowls in his 13-year NFL career, makes his home in Ruston, La., and has been an invaluable help to the NCAA's career sack leader (45).  "I talk with Willie a lot. He signs off on a lot of stuff that I do," Ferguson said. "He's Big Willie. He's a mentor around Ruston. Everything he's done is what we're striving to do right now. He made his life through football and made a great life for himself after football."  Ferguson broke the FBS sack record of 44, previously held by former Arizona State star Terrell Suggs, in his final college game last month with 2.5 sacks against Hawaii in the Hawaii Bowl. The Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year said the best advice Roaf has imparted, however, had nothing to do with playing the game.  "Save my money, don't spend it," Ferguson said.  He could have a lot to save very soon -- NFL.com analyst Daniel Jeremiah ranks Ferguson the No. 35 prospect in this year's draft. -- Chase Goodbread):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001012985/article/senior-bowl-notebook-day-2-shades-of-darius-leonard-in-lb

Jaylon Ferguson an enforcer option at EDGE for Lions (1-23-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/01/23/jaylon-ferguson-an-enforcer-option-at-edge-for-lions/

Senior Bowl: Eight prospects who can soar ahead of 2019 NFL Draft (Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech: Ferguson is a known commodity to most. The 6-5, 262-pound edge-rusher set the FBS record for career sacks with 45. He also had 26 tackles for loss in 2018. He's a potential first-round talent, and the measurables are there. Don't act surprised when he's prolific at the next level, too.):  http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/senior-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-daniel-jones-wes-hills-andy-isabella-jaylon-ferguson/6srgdbt3yy0x10b7zpon4xmhk

Senior Bowl offers wealth of edge-rushing talent for Lions to consider (Louisiana Tech’s Jaylon Ferguson checks all the boxes. With 2.5 sacks in his final college game, a 31-14 bowl victory over Hawaii, he became the FCS’s all-time sack leader, passing Terrell Suggs.  The biggest question about Ferguson is how his production translates against a higher level of competition, something he’s looking to prove this week.  “There’s a lot of big-time rushers and big pass rushers from bigger schools, but at the same time I feel like I had the same or even better production against the same competition, but I don’t get recognized for it as much as I should,” Ferguson said. “I’m using this week to prove I can go up against the better competition and dominate.”  Ferguson has an NFL build, standing at 6-foot-4, 256 pounds with adequately long arms — a critical component to playing in Detroit’s gap-control front. He would be a logical fit to replace Ziggy Ansah, assuming the Lions part ways with the oft-injured former first-round pick this offseason.  Despite Ferguson’s imposing frame, he’s soft-spoken, talking barely above a whisper during multiple interviews.  That flips when he steps between the lines.  “I live my life slow so I can play fast,” Ferguson said. “Really before the game, I’ll just be in my own world, just chilling and quiet. And then right before we go on the field, I turn it up, I turn it on, get ready to go because on the field you can’t be cool and laid back. You’ve got to be up. People are looking up to you. People are depending on you. So you’ve got to get up and go.”) (1-23-19):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/01/23/senior-bowl-offers-wealth-edge-rushing-talent-lions-consider/2660807002/

Small school pass rushers looking to impress at Senior Bowl (1-22-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/small-school-pass-rushers-looking-to-impress-at-senior-bowl

2019 Senior Bowl: Tuesday Practice Report: South Team (Louisiana Tech defensive end Jaylon Ferguson has some fans in the scouting community who think he is an intriguing talent. Ferguson did well overall in the pass rushing one-on-ones. He had a very impressive win over Washington State's Andre Dillard, using a rip move to the inside. Ferguson had some other good wins, but also an ugly rep where he was mandhanled by Alabama State's Tytus Howard. Howard pushed Ferguson into the turf with violence. At 6-foot-4, 256 pounds, Ferguson is going to need to get stronger for taking on NFL offensive tackles.) (1-22-19):  http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2019practice2.php

Senior Bowl South: Sweat, Mack excel Tuesday (Lousiana Tech's Jaylon Ferguson looks the part of modern-day edge rusher but we want to see more from him the rest of the week. He had his moments in one-on-one drills but he needs to play with more consistency.) (1-22-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-senior-bowl-montez-sweat-daylon-mack-dominant-on-tuesday-south-quarterbacks-looked-rusty/

Senior Bowl Buzz - Monday Morning (I’m told Jaylon Ferguson is working very hard in training and is poised for a good week at the Senior Bowl and terrific numbers during combine workouts. The belief is that Ferguson, who tipped the scales at 259 pounds this morning, can easily add 15 pounds to his frame without losing any quickness or speed.) (1-22-19):  http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-buzz-monday-morning

2019 Senior Bowl Week (Yet the one I’m most interested in this setting is Louisiana Tech’s Jaylon Ferguson. His 10 yard split will be exceptional, and he frequently looked more comfortable at left defensive end, facing right tackles, which might create a natural mismatch. It might not look pretty on day one, but if Ferguson can absorb coaching and progress through the week, the tools to disrupt are there.) (1-22-19):  http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/85852/351/2019-senior-bowl-week

10 players for Lions to watch at Senior Bowl (Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech:  Ferguson is bigger and older than Ximines, but brings a rare level of production to the table. In four college seasons, Ferguson racked up 45 sacks, including 17.5 last season. He also has developed a reputation for being a solid run defender who sets a strong edge. Listed at 6-foot-5, 265 pounds, he has an NFL-ready body.) (1-21-19):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/01/21/ten-players-detroit-lions-watch-senior-bowl/2636139002/

2019 Senior Bowl preview: Edge Defenders (Ferguson is the NCAA’s career sack leader with a whopping total of 45.  His outstanding accomplishment was done with traits that should entice NFL scouts this week. Ferguson comes off the ball with long strides and has no trouble translating the speed to power. He gets his hands extended to control offensive linemen and create backward movement, or setting the edge.  When pass rushing, he makes his money by demonstrates a variety of heavy hands to win by going through blockers. Ferguson can line up in multiple spots and has experience attacking the line from all different angles. He does lack the flexibility to bend the edge, burst and change of direction, making him limited as an athlete.  Ferguson could be a nice mid-round option and provide quality depth.) (1-21-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/01/21/2019-senior-bowl-preview-edge-defenders/

Senior Bowl: Storylines to monitor (Can Jaylon Ferguson perform well enough to lock himself into Round 1?  Ferguson is probably already in the first-round conversation on many teams' boards. At 6-5 and 265 pounds with 45 sacks and 67.5 tackles for loss in his legendary four-year career at Louisiana Tech, his production is basically off the charts. How refined is he with his hands on the edge? And can he routinely bend it? Those are two characteristics of the league's most dominant pass-rushers. Ferguson won't be able to fully erase my concerns in those two areas in Mobile, but if he plays to his collegiate production during the week of practices, when he'll get a ton of one-on-one reps, and shows out in the game, he'll be trending toward a Marcus Davenport reputation.  If neither development occurs, Ferguson could be on the fast track to landing in the second round after a productive collegiate career like Browns defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-senior-bowl-here-are-the-four-most-compelling-storylines-to-keep-an-eye-on/

2019 Senior Bowl Primer (Jaylon Ferguson, EDGE, Louisiana Tech--Ferguson posted ridiculous sack production at Louisiana Tech: 45 career sacks will merit serious attention. His speed-to-power move looks like it will translate, but this is a challenge to prove he can do it against much better blocking and more aware quarterbacks.) (1-21-19):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3132/2019-Senior-Bowl-Primer

Senior Bowl 2019: Defensive prospects who can enter NFL Draft first-round conversation if they impress (Jaylon Ferguson, EDGE, Louisiana Tech:  Ferguson's production speaks for itself. He had 67.5 tackles for loss and 45 sacks in his four seasons at Louisiana Tech and has NFL defensive end size at 6-5 and 262 pounds. But his counter moves are more impressive than his initial moves off the snap, meaning it can take him extra time to get to the quarterback. Also, he's not a bendy edge-rusher despite being a good, relatively explosive athlete.   If Ferguson can piece together a solid week in Mobile, and does it by winning his reps quickly, landing in Round 1 will not be out of the question whatsoever.) (1-16-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2019-defensive-prospects-who-can-enter-nfl-draft-first-round-conversation-if-they-impress/

10 defensive ends the Detroit Lions could target in NFL draft (Ferguson returned for his fifth year in college and posted the best numbers of his career. He finished with 64 tackles, including 26 for a loss, and led the nation with 17.5 sacks, to go with nine quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. Ferguson was a finalist for the Ted Hendricks Award, was listed by Kiper as the No. 3 defensive end in the draft and will play in the Senior Bowl.) (1-17-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/fa9ca596088576/10-defensive-ends-the-detroit-lions-could-target-in-nfl-draft.html

Scout's Eye: Bowl Game Edition Part III (DE Jaylon Ferguson, Louisiana Tech, rSR (6-4, 262, 4.84, #45): The "Sack Daddy" enters his final collegiate game with 42.5 career sacks, just one and a half shy of tying the NCAA record held by Terrell Suggs (sacks have officially been compiled by the NCAA since 2000). Blessed with tremendous length, Ferguson uses his long arms to establish leverage and capitalizes on his strength with an assortment of hand combat moves. He has managed the art of multi-tasking between football, school and fatherhood; off the field he has mastered the unicycle. While his limited athleticism and bend on the field might prevent Ferguson from being a first-round pick, he should expect to hear his name called early on Day 2.) (12-21-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-bowl-edition-part-iv--IHTlG89Bkq--cT8bCVQDA/

NFL Draft 2019 Position Primers: Nick Bosa, Clelin Ferrell the Top Edge Rushers (JAYLON FERGUSON, DE, LOUISIANA TECH:  This season’s FBS total sack leader, Ferguson was just a three-star recruit out of high school but has risen to the status of Conference USA legend. He’s a 6' 5" menace with a knack for tossing around blockers and making them look silly.  Ferguson has excellent burst and leverages his hands effectively into the pads of offensive linemen (making an effort at) blocking him. This especially serves him well in the run game. While he can sometimes get worn down on a drawn-out play, the Bulldog woos offenses away from his side with his instant impact at the snap. He’s a massive human being who likes to use all of his frame, but in the NFL it’ll serve him well to bend and twist more in pursuit of the quarterback. While he needs to work a bit on his rush angles, Ferguson’s strength and savvy make him a top prospect.) (12-21-18):   https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/21/nfl-draft-2019-top-edge-rushers-nick-bosa-clelin-ferrell

Hawaii Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Louisiana Tech vs. Hawaii bowl game (Jaylon Ferguson, EDGE:  Ferguson has enjoyed one of the most productive careers among edge-rushers in college football history. At 6-foot-5 and 262 pounds, he has NFL size today. While not someone with a true trump card, Ferguson has above-average bend for his stature, a good speed-to-power game, and impressive length. As long as he doesn't tank during the pre-draft process, he's basically a lock to go no later than the third round.) (12-21-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/hawaii-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-louisiana-tech-vs-hawaii-bowl-game/

A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (Louisiana Tech senior edge rusher Jaylon Ferguson (6 feet 4 inches, 267 pounds) figures to be a candidate to go in the earlier rounds of the draft after he posted 15 sacks and 23.5 tackles for loss this season, with one game to go. His experience makes him ready, and yet his rawness of pass-rushing moves makes him a piece that Patricia could have fun developing at one of the weaker spots on the defense.) (12-15-18):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html

Meet Jaylon Ferguson, college football's most productive pass rusher (11-28-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/11/28/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-interview-jaylon-ferguson-louisiana-tech/

Risers and Sliders -- Week 13 (Jaylon Ferguson/DE/Louisiana Tech: Ferguson looked solid during the Bulldogs' poor loss to Western Kentucky, the worst team in Conference USA. Graded as a potential first-round pick entering the season, he’s considered one of the best pass rushers from the senior class but has rounded out his game this season and developed into a terrific run defender. He posted eight tackles during the defeat to WKU to go along with two tackles for loss and a half-sack. For the season, Ferguson has totaled 59 tackles while amassing 23.5 tackles for loss and 15 sacks. Though I have my concerns about his instincts, there’s no denying Ferguson’s tape is impressive and will push him into the early part of the draft.) (11-26-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/risers-sliders-week-13

2019 NFL Draft names to know (Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech (No. 45):  OK, let's get this out of the way, Stadium TV is an internet broadcasting company, but it appears this game is free to watch and I didn't want to go the full year without highlighting Ferguson.  The 6-foot-5, 265-pounder has been tough for opponents to handle off the edge this season. He's up to 12.5 sacks with a flurry of 6.5 the past four games, including two against Mississippi State.  Ferguson has long arms and is good with his hands, making him a good fit for coach Matt Patricia's scheme. ) (11-19-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2019-names-to-know-after-week-12

2019 Draft: Five unsung edge-rushers (Jaylon Ferguson, Louisiana Tech: Ferguson was a menace against the LSU offensive line a week ago, and he followed that nearly unblockable performance with four tackles for loss and four sacks against North Texas on Saturday.  He's been highly productive now in four consecutive seasons at Louisiana Tech with 48 tackles for loss and 35.5 sacks currently to his name. Ferguson's a tall, sleek power-rusher with a good inside counter and long arms he uses to initiate contact with offensive tackles. He can get stuck on blocks occasionally but typically disengages en route to the quarterback or when locating a ball-carrier in the backfield. Ferguson's greatest strengths are his sustained acceleration off the snap, smooth athleticism, and impressive length. He has block-shedding skills, which have helped him become a fine run-defender too.) (10-2-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-jachai-polite-oshane-ximines-and-the-unheralded-edge-rushers-with-serious-nfl-talent/

NFLDraftScout.com Prospect Notebook: Week 6 (Louisiana Tech senior defensive end Jaylon Ferguson (6-4, 269, 4.84, #45), a mid-round prospect, collected four sacks against North Texas, boosting his career total to 33.5.) (10-1-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/nfldraftscout-com-prospect-notebook-week-6-FWQ5UHlVtUag3HSD3XXi2g/

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 4 (Up -  Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech:  Some sources are intrigued with Ferguson, while others aren't high on him. The evaluators who like Ferguson are interested in his skill set, as they like his combination of size, speed and athleticism. Through three games this season, Ferguson has 15 tackles with three tackles for a loss, two sacks, one forced fumble and one pass batted. He has enough fans in the scouting community that he could be an early-round pick next April. ) (9-25-18):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_04.php

NCAA Week 4 – Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER - Jaylon Ferguson, Louisiana Tech (Week 4 Grade: 90.4): Ferguson actually led the nation’s edge defenders with his 91.7 pass-rushing grade in Week 4, highlighted by his six QB pressures on just 21 pass-rushing snaps against LSU. He also recorded two defensive stops, four total tackles and no missed tackles on the day.) (9-23-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-4-team-of-the-week

2018 college football season: Top 11 defensive linemen to watch (7. Ferguson:  Ferguson is a heat-seeking missile once he gets into the backfield. He's a find ball, attack ball run defender with a tremendous closing burst and 41.5 career tackles for loss to prove it. At 6-foot-5 and 259 pounds, he has plus length that he combines with bouncy feet to beat offensive tackles on either their outside or inside shoulders as a pass rusher. Ferguson has experience as a stand-up rusher, as well, and appears to have the athletic ability to play in a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme at the next level. While the level of competition across from him hasn't always been challenging, his physical traits and athletic talent are translatable to the NFL.) (7-13-18):http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000940247/article/2018-college-football-season-top-11-defensive-linemen-to-watch

NFL Draft Defender Ranks (8. Jaylon Ferguson) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks

2019 NFL Draft: 10 prospects to watch from Non-Power 5 conferences (Jaylon Ferguson, EDGE, Louisiana Tech:  Another tall, long, Davenport type, Ferguson has been a steady producer during his career at Louisiana Tech. He wins with speed, impressive bend, and moments of power around the corner to get to the quarterback. If he returns to his 2016 form when he tallied 14 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks, he'll be in the conversation to be picked in one of the first two rounds next April.) (5-31-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-10-prospects-to-watch-from-non-power-5-conferences/

DE Carl Granderson:

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine II (Down - Granderson:  After a good performance at the Senior Bowl, Granderson had his draft status take a nose dive after being charged with third-degree sexual assault and sexual battery. According to the local media in Wyoming, the incident took place in November of last year. With the possibility of prison time if convicted, NFL teams are taking a wait-and-see approach with Granderson, which could easily lead to him going undrafted.) (2-26-19):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_23.php

NFL draft prospect Carl Granderson accused of sexual assault (2-7-19):  http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospect-carl-granderson-accused-sexual-assault-wyoming-combine/1w5miqa1twpl012tufvmphpt1p

Craig Bohl alludes to Granderson's hearing loss after late hit penalty (9-4-18):  https://trib.com/sports/college/wyoming/football/craig-bohl-alludes-to-granderson-s-hearing-loss-after-late/article_52548936-ca00-5988-9b78-0324f47fc44a.html

2019 NFL Draft: Five under-the-radar prospects who could rise into the first round (Carl Granderson, EDGE, Wyoming:  At 6-5 and almost 250-plus pounds, Granderson passes the eyeball test, and he was all over the field for Wyoming as a junior with 78 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks. Many of his behind-the-line production was a byproduct of scary speed-to-power ability and bend and burst around the corner.   I won't call him the next Marcus Davenport just yet, but if there's a edge-rusher outside the Power 5 who could rise into Round 1 of the 2019 draft, it very well could be Granderson. His arms look long too, which will entice scouts and general managers. In 2017, he forced two fumbles and intercepted two passes.  The Cowboys quietly had one of college football's stingiest defenses a season ago, and beyond Granderson, they have a pair of sure-fire NFLers in playmaking safety Andrew Wingard and penetrating defensive tackle Youhanna Ghaifan who had 15.5 tackles for loss last season. The attention he'll draw inside will likely give Granderson more one-on-one opportunities on the outside. ) (7-13-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-five-under-the-radar-prospects-who-could-rise-into-the-first-round/

NFL Draft Defender Ranks (11. Granderson:  Carl Granderson (6’5/255) was arguably as valuable to Wyoming as QB Josh Allen last year. The long edge player recorded 77 tackles, 16 TFL and a team-high 9.5 sacks. He also showed versatility by picking off two passes. The highlight of his season may have been the 58-yard fumble recovery touchdown against Central Michigan in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks

2019 NFL Draft: 10 prospects to watch from Non-Power 5 conferences (Carl Granderson, EDGE, Wyoming:  On the Pick Six Podcast with Will Brinson earlier this week, I dropped a comparison between Granderson and Saints' first-round pick Marcus Davenport. Granderson is tall and could add some weight to his frame at the next level, but the way he dominates lesser competition with tenacity and power on the outside reminds me a lot of what I saw from Davenport at UTSA. He had 16 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks in 2017.) (5-31-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-10-prospects-to-watch-from-non-power-5-conferences/

DE Joe Jackson:

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine II (Down - Jackson: The Hurricanes defensive end was one of many underclassmen who entered the 2019 NFL Draft when they should have gone back to school to improve before going to the NFL. In speaking to multiple team sources, they have Jackson graded well into Day 2. One area scout told me that they had given Jackson a fourth-round grade, but also felt they were being generous with that grade and easily could have had him lower. Jackson needs to be a star at the combine and in the pre-draft workouts to have a shot at going on Day 2 during the 2019 NFL Draft.) (2-26-19):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_23.php

Previewing the 2019 NFL Combine: Studs, starters and sleepers at Defensive End (Grade: A-.  Second Day (Future) Starter: Joe Jackson, Miami - The 2018 season was a disappointing one for Miami fans but don't blame Jackson, who led the team in sacks, ranking the third consecutive year in which he topped the Hurricanes in either quarterback takedowns, tackles for loss, total stops (among defensive linemen) or all three. While lacking the national name recognition of some of the other top-rated defensive ends in this remarkable 2019 class, Jackson is well respected by scouts, likely earning a top 64 selection and projecting as a future starter.) (2-15-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/previewing-the-2019-nfl-combine-studs-starters-and-sleepers-at-defensive-end-EmCIcb0FQ0uumrwUgp9iPQ/

10 defensive ends the Detroit Lions could target in NFL draft (Jackson had a productive junior season with 47 tackles, including 14.5 for a loss, nine sacks, an interception, nine quarterback hurries and two forced fumbles before declaring for the draft. Kiper listed him as the No. 6 defensive end available in the draft.) (1-17-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/fa9ca596088576/10-defensive-ends-the-detroit-lions-could-target-in-nfl-draft.html

Pinstripe Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Wisconsin vs. Miami bowl game (Joe Jackson, EDGE:  Jackson is what I call a power defensive end, an edge-rusher who leans on his point-of-attack strength and heavy hands to defeat blocks and make plays in the backfield. He's listed at 6-foot-5 and 258 pounds, and he has a sculpted upper body. While not very bendy, Jackson can use his length to get his hands on the football on rushes when he can't flatten to the quarterback. The Miami star had 22.5 sacks and 35.5 tackles for loss in three seasons for the Hurricanes. He seems like a classic second-round pick. There's size, physicality, and decent production but some skill refinement is needed.) (12-25-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/pinstripe-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-wisconsin-vs-miami-bowl-game/

A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (Miami junior edge rusher Joe Jackson (6 feet 5 inches, 250 pounds) has 35.5 tackles for loss and 22.5 sacks in his career, showing the athleticism to make game-changing plays.) (12-15-18):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html

Blockers, bullies and SEC-transfers highlight Rivalry Week NFL draft risers (5. Joe Jackson, DE, Miami, 6-5, 265, 4.83, Jr, # 99:  With its Week 13 opponent, Pittsburgh, operating such a run-heavy offense, there were relatively few opportunities for Jackson to build upon his numbers but that did not stop the true junior from exploding for a career-best 2.5 sacks, among his six overall tackles (five solo) in a 24-3 home win. This year's dominant defensive line class could push some talented underclassmen back to the college game but Jackson is among the proven commodities, having a combined 22 sacks over three starting seasons with the 'Canes, including his career-high of nine sacks this season. Despite his production, Jackson is still a relatively raw prospect, relying more on his traits than technique to this point. Watch this clip against Duke earlier this year.) (11-27-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/blockers-bullies-and-sec-transfers-highlight-rivalry-week-nfl-draft-risers-4x1g0v0U-kuSoG9x33vPgg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (45.  Joe Jackson, DE, Miami.) (11-13-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (45.  Joe Jackson, DE, Miami.) (11-7-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (34.  Joe Jackson, DE, Miami.) (10-31-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Lions NFL Draft watch: 5 prospects for Week 9 (Joe Jackson, DE, Miami (No. 99):  In his three seasons with the Hurricanes, Jackson has shown steady improvement. At 6-foot-5, 258 pounds, with long limbs, he possesses a good build to play the edge in Detroit's scheme.  Jackson has averaged nearly a tackle for a loss per game during his time with the Hurricanes and possess a nice combination of power and athleticism off the edge. The pass-rush repertoire is still a work in progress, but you put faith in defensive line coach Bo Davis to unlock that potential, similar to the way he's done with Da'Shawn Hand.) (10-26-18):   https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/10/26/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-watch-five-prospects-week-9/1764452002/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (34. Joe Jackson) (10-24-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (32.  Joe Jackson, DE, Miami.) (10-17-18):
http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (32. Joe Jackson, DE, Miami.) (10-10-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (25.  Joe Jackson, DE, Miami. (Previously: 25 Avg. 19 per 6): Jackson made it two games in a row with creating big impact. Against North Carolina, Jackson totaled five tackles, one sack, one pass batted, and an interception returned 42 yards for a touchdown. A week earlier versus Florida International, he came alive with seven tackles and 1.5 sacks.  Taking on Toledo, Jackson had two tackles for a loss, but those were on plays he went unblocked. He also had a lot of one-on-ones in the pass rush that he lost to linemen who won't be playing in the NFL. It was a disappointing performance from Jackson.  Taking on LSU in Week 1, he came close to some sacks while having three tackles and a pass batted. Jackson has 16 tackles, three sacks, two forced fumbles and two passes batted so far in 2018.) (10-3-18):   http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Week 5 National Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER - Joe Jackson, Miami (Fla.) (Week 5 Grade: 95.5):  Here to make sure no one forgets about the strong performance from the Miami defense on Thursday night, Jackson earns Team of the Week honors for his strong overall performance. He racked up four QB pressures including a sack and three hurries but his splash plays are what truly made the difference. He forced a fumble and also grabbed an interception when UNC QB Chazz Surratt was trying to throw the ball away, returning it 42 yards for a touchdown that pushed the Miami lead to 24-10 as they never looked back.) (10-2-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-5-team-of-the-week/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (19. Joe Jackson, DE, Miami. (Previously: 15 Avg. 16 per 4): Taking on Toledo, Jackson had two tackles for a loss, but those were on plays he went unblocked. On the other hand, Jackson had a lot of one-on-ones in the pass rush that he lost to linemen who won't be playing in the NFL. It was a disappointing performance from Jackson. Taking on LSU in Week 1, he came close to some sacks while having three tackles and a pass batted. Jackson has four tackles and .5 sacks so far in 2018.) (9-19-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Stock (Down - Joe Jackson, DE, Miami: Taking on a Toledo team that Jackson should have dominated, he turned in a very disappointing game. He saw a lot of one-on-one blocks against offensive linemen who won't play in the NFL and did nothing in the pass rush. Late in the first quarter, Jackson made a good read on a RPO and took down the quarterback for a loss of a couple of yards. Early in the fourth quarter, Jackson came unblocked around the side and chased down the back for a loss of three yards. Other than those plays, Jackson created no impact.  Something seems off with Jackson because he was not fast off the snap and was not putting heat on the quarterback with speed off the edge. He would try to bull rush frequently and got nowhere. The Toledo game was a bad tape from Jackson, who should have dominated, yet he was a non-factor on plays where he did not come unblocked. He looked nothing like the player who got the better of Mike McGlinchey last season. ) (9-18-18):   http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_03.php

Walterfootball Big Board (15.  Joe Jackson, DE, Miami. (Previously: 15 Avg. 15 per 3) -  09/12/18: Jackson has four tackles and .5 sacks so far in 2018. Taking on LSU in Week 1, Jackson came close to some sacks while having three tackles and a pass batted.   08/30/18: Jackson (6-5, 258) is a dangerous edge defender with a nose for the quarterback. He has excellent speed off the edge to go along with length and size. With his nice build, Jackson could grow into a solid base end in a 4-3 defense. In 2017, he had 59 tackles with 11.5 for a loss, 6.5 sacks, two passes batted and one forced fumble. He was impressive in his play against Notre Dame left tackle Mike McGlinchey, a first-round pick and starting tackle in the NFL. As a freshman, Jackson had 8.5 sacks with 32 tackles, 11.5 tackles for a loss and two forced fumbles. In speaking to a general manager, they said they think that Jackson will go high. Another national scout said they liked Jackson's length but felt his strength and technique needed work, thus they didn't have him high just yet.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft: Miami Hurricanes' top prospects (Joe Jackson, EDGE:  Heavy. Hands. That's what immediately pops when watching Jackson's 2017 film. It's like he has two lead pipes attached to his body, and he's certainly not timid about using them at the point of attack.  At 6-foot-5 and nearly 260 pounds with seemingly long arms, he fits the physical profile of an NFL defensive end. In 2016, he had 10.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. Last year, he had 10.5 tackles for loss again, registered 6.5 sacks, and batted down two passes.  As a pass-rusher, Jackson utilizes a nice rip move on the outside and showed flashes of an inside club move as a counter, but he's not a polished hand technician yet. He possesses requisite upfield burst, and though I won't label him "stiff," he's not Gumby around the corner. But there's a lot to like about Jackson's power-driven game, his length, motor, and active hands when attempting to dispatch blockers against the run. If he showcases a more refined skill set getting after the quarterback in 2018, he'll get plenty of first-round consideration.) (8-23-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-miami-hurricanes-feature-electric-wr-ample-nfl-talent-on-both-sides-of-ball/

Scouting the ACC - Miami (Defensive lineman Joe Jackson is quickly turning into a favorite. He’s another who's incredibly athletic, and he's a terrific pass rusher with the ability to disrupt opposing game plans at a moment’s notice. Jackson must get a little stronger and add bulk but has terrific upside.) (7-31-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-acc-miami-0

2018 college football season: Top 11 defensive linemen to watch (9. Jackson:  This year Miami had three defensive linemen drafted from last season's team, but Jackson led that D-line in tackles (59) and recorded 6.5 sacks (second-most on the team) as a sophomore. Jackson has great size. He's able to generate outstanding speed and converts it to power in collapsing the pocket from the edge. Jackson has the ability to make relatively sudden lateral movement that helps him finish tackles at difficult angles. From a production standpoint, Jackson's tackles for loss and sack numbers were close to identical from his freshman to sophomore seasons. A noticeable jump in production is often the norm for a defensive lineman in his third year of play -- he could be in for a strong season.) (7-13-18):http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000940247/article/2018-college-football-season-top-11-defensive-linemen-to-watch

NFL Draft Defender Ranks (6. Joe Jackson) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks

DE Jalen Jelks:

U-M DE Gary, LB Bush among NFL combine winners (Losers - 7. Jalen Jelks, DE, Oregon: Amid lingering uncertainty about whether he's best suited as a 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 outside linebacker, Jelks did little to convince teams he can fully handle either role. Poor marks in the 40 (4.92), short shuttle (4.59) and bench press (19 reps) might leave him in a no-man's land for scouts and general managers.) (3-5-19):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2019/03/05/nfl-combine-winners-losers-dk-metcalf-montez-sweat-draft-stock/3049233002/

2019 NFL Combine Stock Report: Defensive Linemen (Down - Jalen Jelks tested poorly athletically, which was surprising to say the least. Jelks ran a slow 4.92 despite weighing in at just 6-5, 256. He also had a 32.5-inch vertical and a 9-foot-5 broad jump.) (3-3-19):  http://walterfootball.com/combine2019stockDL.php

Who and what to watch at the 2019 NFL Combine: EDGE rusher (Jalen Jelks, Oregon (Suggested by: Zack Moran):  Another hybrid pass rusher who is best moving forward but is likely too light (est. 250-pounds) for the down defensive role, despite previously being an interior defensive lineman. If the Lions target Jelks on Day 3, he will most likely begin his career as a pass rushing specialist while they test his ability to stop the run and set the edge in an effort to find him a permanent home. At the Combine, watch his bend and movement skills to determine if he is capable of playing from a standing position.) (2-27-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/02/26/who-what-watch-2019-nfl-combine-edge-rusher/

Senior Bowl: North Practice Report (The defensive linemen with the biggest highlight of the day was Oregon’s Jalen Jelks. The 6-6, 245-pound Jelks showed his quickness when he came around the end and flew in to block Finley’s pass like he was Dikembe Mutombo. The rejection was loud and sailed into the area where the coaches and other players watch, 10 yards behind the line of scrimmage.) (1-23-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/senior-bowl-north-practice-report-d4naSzJe00eQz039seHOgw/

2019 Senior Bowl: Tuesday Practice Report: North Team (Jalen Jelks made Risner look bad with a fast interior rush to get an easy victory in the one-on-ones.) (1-23-19):  http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2019practice.php

Senior Bowl: Saunders, Wren wow Tuesday (Oregon's Jalen Jelks gave Kansas State's Dalton Risner some problems with a speed-to-inside-crossover move, which at 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, is what you'd expect. He's a fluid but undersized defensive lineman.) (1-22-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-senior-bowl-khalen-saunders-renell-wren-shine-on-tuesday-daniel-jones-drew-lock-have-mixed-showing/

2019 Senior Bowl preview: Edge Defenders (Jelks finished with 29.5 tackles for loss and 15 sacks, recording 10.5 career sacks in Pac-12 play.  Jelks possesses good speed off the edge, but it’s his ability to win to both the perimeter and inside that makes him dangerous. He’s got quick feet and a flexible frame, so he’s able to slip creases. He has sudden redirection skills to alter his rush angle or manipulate blockers. He shifts his weight nicely and battles his way with active hands and his long arms.  Jelks lacks strength in his upper-half and doesn’t threaten offensive tackles with a speed to power conversion. I will need be looking for him to work on splitting double teams because that often hurt him in college, when rushing the passer.) (1-21-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/01/21/2019-senior-bowl-preview-edge-defenders/

A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (Oregon redshirt junior defensive end Jalen Jelks (6 feet 6 inches, 245 pounds) has the potential to play like a hybrid linebacker-edge rusher in a defense like the Lions'.) (12-15-18):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html

Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Jalen Jelks, DE/OLB, Oregon:  “He is a tweener. He is going to be a 4-3 designated pass-rush guy because I don’t know if he really fits in a 4-3 on run downs. But as a 3-4 outside linebacker, he is going to have the length and the twitch. He is really twitchy for a long-bodied guy. Oregon doesn’t play him how he is going to play in the pros. They reduce him inside, play him inside and always have his hand on the ground where I think he could be more of a stand up guy at the next level. He doesn’t do a lot of outside linebacker type things like drop into coverage, and that’s what he’ll have to prove. We don’t have anywhere near a first-round grade on him right now.”) (11-21-18):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (28.  Jalen Jelks, OLB, Oregon.) (10-31-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 9 (Down - Jalen Jelks, DE, Oregon: Jelks has been quiet this season despite seeing some good pass-rushing opportunities. In Oregon's upset loss to Washington State, Jelks was very quiet while Cougars quarterback Gardner Minshew passed all over the Ducks. Jelks hardly even went against Washington State left tackle Andre Dillard, a potential second-day pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Instead a right tackle who won't be playing in the NFL consistently got the better of Jelks. Jelks has 3.5 sacks after eight games despite Oregon often playing with a lead and providing him with pass-rushing opportunities. This season, Jelks really has not had the look of a first-round pick.) (10-30-18):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_09.php

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (28. Jalen Jelks) (10-24-18):http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Risers and Sliders -- Week 8 (Sliders - Jalen Jelks/Edge/Oregon: Jelks grades out high in the areas of football intelligence, effort and competitiveness but grades poorly in the measurables area; something that was very evident the past two weeks. He totaled four tackles against Washington then produced the same numbers against Washington State. During the loss to WSU on Saturday, Jelks was routinely manhandled by Cougars left tackle Andre Dillard. In seven games this season, he’s registered 2.5 sacks and four tackles for loss. We gave Jelks a mid-to-late second-round grade entering the season, which was a full frame higher than scouts who stamped him as a third-round prospect. There’s been talk about Jelks as a potential top-20 selection in Round 1, something I just don’t see happening. This is not to say Jelks won’t be a good football player in the NFL in due time, but people are overrating where he’ll end up in next April’s draft.) (10-22-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/risers-sliders-week-8

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (29.  Jalen Jelks, OLB, Oregon.) (10-17-18):
http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Scout's Eye: Top NFL Prospects to Watch in Week 7 (DE Jalen Jelks, Oregon, rSR (6-5, 245, 4.81, #97): The versatile edge rusher has been a hybrid player for the Ducks, who have mixed their defensive fronts. Jelks plays 3-4 outside linebacker and 4-3 defensive end ... and he also has played on the interior of the defensive line. He has been a factor in helping stuff the run and is averaging five tackles per game in 2018. Jelks has been very productive, racking up 19.5 tackles for a loss and 9.5 over his past 18 games and could be in first-round consideration if he tests well.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-top-nfl-prospects-to-watch-in-week-7-wxPRFkuNkEeEp8E0iAO-QA/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (25. Jelks:  Oregon had a bye last week. Jelks made six tackles while taking on California. He had a disappointing game against Stanford, recording only one tackle. Versus San Jose State, he recorded five tackles with 1.5 for a loss, one sack and a pass batted. Jelks has 26 tackles with four for a loss and 2.5 sacks so far in 2018.) (10-10-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (22.  Jalen Jelks, OLB, Oregon. (Previously: 22 Avg. 21.7 per 6): Jelks made six tackles while taking on California. He had a disappointing game against Stanford, recording only one tackle. Versus San Jose State, he recorded five tackles with 1.5 for a loss, one sack and a pass batted. Jelks has 26 tackles with four for a loss and 2.5 sacks so far in 2018.) (10-3-18):   http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Five possible Lions draft prospects: Week 5 (Jalen Jelks, OLB, Oregon (No. 97):  An under-sized edge rusher, Jelks has been playing a little more off the ball this season for the Ducks. There's room to pack some pounds on to his 6-foot-5 frame and he'd be a nice fit on the edge in Detroit, rotating with Devon Kennard on early downs, and the two could be paired together on speed-rush looks in more obvious passing situations.  Often rushing from the inside for Oregon, he tallied an impressive 46 quarterback pressures last season, recording 7.0 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss. He has 2.5 sacks through four games this season. ) (9-28-18):https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/five-possible-lions-draft-prospects-week-5/1448997002/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (22. Jalen Jelks, OLB, Oregon. (Previously: 22 Avg. 21.5 per 4): Versus San Jose State, Jelks recorded five tackles with 1.5 for a loss, one sack and a pass batted. He has 20 tackles with four for a loss and 2.5 sacks so far in 2018.) (9-19-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3 (20. JALEN JELKS, OREGON – EDGE DEFENDER: Jelks lines up all over Oregon’s defensive front but he’s productive no matter his alignment. He projects as an edge rusher at the next level and this season, he has the No. 3 grade among edge defenders at 89.8 overall and he has 15 pressures (two sacks, five QB hits, eight hurries) on 84 rushes.) (9-18-18):  PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3

PFF NCAA Week 3 – Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER Jalen Jelks, Oregon (Week 3 Grade: 91.8):  Once again a menace to an opposing offensive line, Jelks was too much to handle for San Jose State on Saturday night. He finished the game with five total QB pressures including three QB hits that forced SJSU QB Josh Love to average just 2.29 seconds per attempt.) (9-16-18):https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-3-team-of-the-week

Walterfootball Big Board (22.  Jalen Jelks, OLB, Oregon. (Previously: 21 Avg. 21.3 per 3) - 09/12/18: Jelks has 15 tackles with 2.5 for a loss and 1.5 sacks so far in 2018.  08/30/18: Jelks (6-5, 244) had a breakout redshirt junior season in which he recorded 59 tackles with 15 tackles for a loss, 6.5 sacks and seven passes batted. Jelks had totaled 40 tackles and five sacks in his previous two seasons as a backup for Oregon.  In the pass rush, Jelks is quick off the edge and shows nice vision with instincts to adjust to the offense. He has speed to close and can run around blockers. Jelks flashes some ability to bend his long frame, and that make him harder to block. As a run defender, Jelks is a good pursuit player and flows well to the ball. He reads his keys well and is able to get in good position to get in on tackles. For the NFL, Jelks is going to need to add more weight to his frame. Jelks is lean and could have issues with downhills runs coming straight at him. He also gets into trouble in the ground game and pass rush when he stands up too high.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Per Pro Football Focus, Oregon redshirt senior DE recorded six pressures in Saturday's 62-14 win over Portland State (He also recorded 4 defensive stops and had an overall grade of 83.9) (9-9-18):   https://mobile.twitter.com/PFF_College/status/1038611201507438594

Scouting the Pac-12 - Oregon (Opinions vary on Jalen Jelks, the Ducks undersized senior pass rusher.  For starters, Jelks is a terrific edge rusher who also displays a good inside move and gets a lot of pressure up the field. He plays with a good motor, shows nice change of direction and makes plays off the line of scrimmage in open space.  Jelks comes with a tall, thin build and has been a liability against the run. He’s a bit of a ‘tweener; he lacks the size for defensive end and may not have the pure speed for linebacker. I believe Jelks has the skills to produce at the next level but question whether he has the computer numbers to be a top-50 pick.) (9-3-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-pac-12-oregon-0

Ranking the top 25 prospects in 2018: Bosa's bro to wreak havoc? (21. Jelks:  Jelks has the ideal frame for an edge rusher, and he plays with excellent leverage and effort. He is the premier pass rusher in the Pac-12. -- DJ) (8-30-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000952266/article/ranking-the-top-25-prospects-in-the-2018-college-football-season

2019 NFL Draft prospect rankings -- top 5 at every position (4. Jalen Jelks, Oregon:  Strengths – Impressive length that he knows how to use to his advantage.  Room to improve in 2018 – Jelks plays mostly inside in Oregon’s 3-man fronts, but projects more to edge at the NFL level. Seeing more snaps outside will help his evaluation.) (8-14-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-5-at-every-position

2018 college football season: Top 11 defensive linemen to watch (8. Jelks:  Watching Jelks' 2017 tape can be frustrating because of how often the Ducks play him along the interior of their defense. While he has similar height and arm length to former Oregon first-round defensive linemen Arik Armstead and DeForest Buckner, Jelks is substantially lighter than both. He's clearly a better fit on the edge. Jelks is extremely active and surprisingly physical at the point of attack, even though he's giving up a lot of size to the offensive linemen across from him. Jelks managed seven sacks last season despite splitting snaps between defensive tackle and defensive end. At the next level, Jelks will be a 4-3 end with the toughness and rush talent to play on the strong or weak side.) (7-13-18):http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000940247/article/2018-college-football-season-top-11-defensive-linemen-to-watch

NFL Draft Defender Ranks (5. Jelks:  Jalen Jelks (6’6/247) is a long and springy defender who chases the ball until the whistle. From an NFL perspective, he’s most exciting when picturing him crashing down on quarterbacks off the edge. But don’t forget about his play against the run. Jelks ranks No. 2 among returning FBS interior defenders with 35 stop in run defense last year, per Pro Football Focus.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks

DE Montez Sweat:

TWENTYMAN: 10 players who impressed at 2019 Combine (Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State:  Sweat was the best player in Mobile at the Senior Bowl. He then came to Indy and crushed the Combine. The 6-foot-6, 260-pound defensive end clocked a 4.41-second 40-yard dash – a modern Combine record for a defensive lineman. He was also explosive and smooth in the on-field drills. His tape and measurables match up, and that will probably mean he hears his name called pretty early on draft night.) (3-5-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-10-players-who-impressed-at-2019-combine

Combine: Murray, Metcalf among winners (Winners - Montez Sweat, EDGE, Mississippi State:  Sweat dominated last season (12 sacks, 14.5 tackles for loss) and the season before (10 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss), he dominated in Mobile at the Senior Bowl in January, and the trend continued in Indianapolis this week. His 4.41 40 is still hard to explain, but he also was among the best edge rushers in the shuttle, three-cone drill, broad jump and vertical leap too.  We've had him as a late first-rounder for months but it's going to be hard to keep him out of the top 15 (we have him going No. 16 to the Panthers in our latest mock draft).) (3-5-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-kyler-murray-d-k-metcalf-jamel-dean-win-combine-jachai-polite-has-bad-week-in-indy/

U-M DE Gary, LB Bush among NFL combine winners (Winners - 2. Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State: One month after a strong week of Senior Bowl practices, the 6-6, 260-pound Sweat did even more to raise his profile over the weekend. A 4.41 40 that set the modern (since 2003) record for defensive linemen was his marquee number, but his sterling runs in the three-cone drill (7.00) and short shuttle (4.29) helped counter claims about his elasticity as a rusher. Sweat still has to put all of those translate those numbers to his approach as a rusher, but his top-10 appeal is growing.) (3-5-19):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2019/03/05/nfl-combine-winners-losers-dk-metcalf-montez-sweat-draft-stock/3049233002/

NFL Combine winners, losers: Kyler Murray critics take L; D-line freaks show off (D-line freaks - A loaded class of edge-rushers did not disappoint. That included Nick Bosa and Quinnen Williams, who are in a battle to be the first pick among defensive linemen, but they have competition.  Montez Sweat ran a 4.41 40-yard dash. Rashan Gary ran a 4.58. Dexter Lawrence put up 36 reps in the bench press, and we haven’t seen a full workout yet from Ed Oliver. These guys will be the story of the first round of the draft.) (3-5-19):  http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2019-winners-losers-kyler-murray-critics-defensive-linemen/csnr73i17bkm1gyz9c56j81cc

2019 NFL Scouting Combine Team: Top defensive prospects (Montez Sweat, Mississippi State - Best team fits: Green Bay Packers, New York Jets, Oakland Raiders, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  Analysis: Sweat is a tough edge defender who was considered a potential top-15 pick coming into the combine. He cemented that status by running a 4.41 40, the best by a defensive lineman in recent history, after measuring nearly 6-6, 260 pounds and possessing yardsticks for arms (35 3/4 inches). He also excelled in the jumps (36-inch vertical, 10-5 broad) and short-area quickness tests (7.00 three-cone, 4.29 short shuttle). Lifting 21 reps of 225 pounds on the bench with that sort of length isn't bad, either.) (3-4-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001021076/article/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-team-top-defensive-prospects

2019 NFL Scouting Combine: Twelve numbers that matter most (1.50 seconds:  At 6-5 3/4 and 260 pounds, Montez Sweat's first 10-yard split on the 40-yard dash was 1.50 seconds. This helped him earn a 4.41-second 40 time, which is the fastest by a defensive lineman since 2003. The average 10-yard split for a Pro Bowl edge rusher since 2003? 1.67 seconds. The Mississippi State product's three-cone result of 7.0 seconds also hit a predictive benchmark (7.0 or lower) that flags for above-average and elite NFL production.) (3-4-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001021021/article/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-twelve-numbers-that-matter-most

Combine Confidential: Defense Risers and Sliders (Led by Montez Sweat (4.41) and Rashan Gary (4.58), the defensive linemen group this year was the fastest to ever hit the turf inside Lucas Oil Stadium, as the average forty-yard dash times of defensive linemen was 4.905, topping the previous mark of 4.907 in 2003.) (3-4-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/combine-confidential-defense-risers-sliders-dkFc3m7x1kKIO0nTKpPs6A/

DJ's takeaways from scouting combine (Montez Sweat, Mississippi State (No. 19 to Titans): In 13 starts during his junior year, Sweat collected 48 total tackles. Sweat, who is 6-foot-6 and 260 pounds, had the fastest 40-yard dash time for a defensive lineman since at least 2003. "That's a tank. That's not normal.") (3-4-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001019889/article/daniel-jeremiahs-day-1-nfl-scouting-combine-takeaways

Sunday's 2019 Combine winners: EDGE rushers (When you break an NFL Combine 40-yard dash record for defensive lineman you’re going to make a bunch of winners lists. Sweat’s 4.41 (40) and 1.5 (10) are freaky numbers for a 260-pound defensive end. Sweat showed well in the defensive line drills, but he looked stiff at times, matching what shows up on tape. When he elected not to participate in linebacker drills (he was requested to) it furthered the narrative that he may be a defensive end only. His stock went up today, but the Lions may be hesitant to use a top-10 pick on him.) (3-3-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/sundays-2019-combine-winners-edge-rushers/

2019 NFL Scouting Combine: EDGE winners, losers from Sunday (Winners - Sweat ran the best 40-yard dash of this year’s combine, officially clocking a ridiculous 4.41 seconds at 260 pounds. It was the single best 40 time for a defensive lineman since 2003. It was no surprise to see, as Sweat is well-known for his get off and ability to eat up a lot of space within the first few steps.  He continued to help his top-15 case the rest of the day off either, showing light footwork in the on-field drills and good power and core flexibility turning corners.) (3-3-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-edge-defender-winners-losers-montez-sweat/

Brooks: Winners and losers from combine Day 3 (Winners - Montez Sweat, edge, Mississippi State: No one has crushed the pre-draft process better than Sweat. The former Mississippi State star opened eyes in January at the Reese's Senior Bowl with a dominant week of practice and he's kept the buzz going with a spectacular performance at the combine. The 6-foot-6, 260-pound pass rusher clocked a 4.41-second 40-yard dash -- a modern combine record for a defensive lineman -- while also displaying impressive movement skills in drills. He moves like a wide receiver through the bags, exhibiting outstanding lateral quickness and change-of-direction ability. With Sweat also showing disruptive pass-rush skills on tape, he might have put himself in the discussion to be picked in the top five in some meeting rooms.) (3-3-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001020821/article/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-winnerslosers-montez-sweat-soars

2019 NFL Combine Stock Report: Defensive Linemen (Up - Montez Sweat was one of the top trending topics on Twitter for what he did in the 40-yard dash. Sweat ran a 4.41 with a 10-yard split of 1.55, which is just absurd. For context, Sweat ran a faster 40 than Jadeveon Clowney at about the same size (6-6, 260). It wasn't a complete win for Sweat, who looked a bit stiff in the drills, but he definitely helped himself in Indianapolis.) (3-3-19):  http://walterfootball.com/combine2019stockDL.php

Combine: How Sweat won the day (Montez Sweat, EDGE, Mississippi State (Draft range: Top 15):  How good was Sweat? Consider his 40 time: (tweet inside with times.  Funny story: That 4.42 was Sweat's unofficial time. He officially ran a 4.41, which makes him faster than Amari Cooper et al. Yikes. Sweat's impressive combine follows a fantastic showing at the Senior Bowl, where he dominated all three practices and played well in the Saturday game. In the span of four weeks he's gone from a sure-fire first-round pick to a top-15 talent.) (3-3-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-montez-sweat-steals-the-show-with-blazing-40-time-and-how-dl-lb-workouts-affect-the-first-round/

Combine takeaways: Big day for D-linemen (Montez Sweat ran the best relative 40-yard dash of this year's combine, officially clocking a ridiculous 4.41 seconds at 260 pounds. It was the single best 40 time for a defensive lineman since 2003. And he didn't take the rest of the day off either, showing great footwork in the stack-and-shed drill and good power turning the corner with his swim move. He could be a top-10 pick after this weekend, and I wouldn't be shocked if he lands in the top five depending on how the QBs shake out.) (3-3-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-results-montez-sweat-quinnen-williams-devin-white-josh-allen-dominate/

Amid Kyler Murray-to-Cardinals Rumors, Nick Bosa Pleads Case for Top Pick and other notes (Mississippi State defensive end Montez Sweat, who is 6-5, 260, ran a 4.41 in the 40, setting an NFL scouting combine record for the fastest time for a defensive linemen since 2003, when the combine started to officially track data. Sweat was a player who has been rising since an impressive Senior Bowl week, and this will only help boost him further. According to ESPN Stats & Info, his 40 time is faster than Tarik Cohen (4.42 at 179 lbs) and Odell Beckham Jr. (4.43 at 198 lbs).) (3-3-19):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/03/03/2019-nfl-combine-nick-bosa-returns-makes-case-first-overall-pick

No Sweat, Mississippi State edge rusher leads dominant DL group at Combine (Projected top five picks Quinnen Williams and Nick Bosa did everything they needed to do (athletically-speaking) but the day belonged to Mississippi State 6-6, 260 pound edge rusher Montez Sweat, who stole the spotlight in precisely 4.41 seconds – and followed that up with a 4.46 approximately thirty minutes later.  Turning in a 40-yard dash time faster than all but seven of the 48 wide receivers invited to Indianapolis this year made Sweat the obvious headliner of the day.) (3-3-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/no-sweat-mississippi-state-edge-rusher-leads-dominant-dl-group-at-combine-lIYXFAHcLk6MN-tMaysgUg/

Montez Sweat becomes fastest DL in modern Combine history (3-3-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/montez-sweat-becomes-fastest-dl-in-modern-combine-history

Prepare yourself for the Montez Sweat projections to Detroit. They’re coming. (3-3-19):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/03/prepare-yourself-for-the-montez-sweat-projections-to-detroit-theyre-coming.html

Top linemen and linebackers for Lions from NFL Combine (Sweat outran some of the best competition on offense this weekend with his blazing 40 yard dash. Beyond that, though, he showed some major strength and caught some Julius Peppers comparisons from the NFL Network crew. That aside, the Bulldog and former Michigan State Spartan was a specimen of the weekend up front and will be someone who has to be in play for Detroit given their needs on the edge up front. Arguably, the biggest winner.) (3-3-19):  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/ContentGallery/NFL-Combine-top-linemen-linebackers-for-Lions-129680744/

Montez Sweat clocks unofficial 4.42 40 at combine (3-3-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001020708/article/montez-sweat-blazes-unofficial-442second-40-at-nfl-combine

Video - Mississippi State DE Montez Sweat runs an official 4.41 40-yard dash at 2019 combine (3-3-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/mississippi-state-de-montez-sweat-runs-an-official-4-41-40-yard-dash-at-2019-com

TWENTYMAN: 4 Combine pass rushers who could interest Lions (Mississippi State’s Montez Sweat fits the physical profile teams love from a defensive end with a terrific mix of size, power and speed. He’s another name that could be in the conversation at No. 8.  Sweat (6-5, 260) compiled 53 tackles, 14 tackles for loss and a team-high 11.5 sacks this past season.  “I think I separate myself with my effort and my play,” he said. “Just getting after the QB is what I do best.”  Sweat also had the advantage of playing in both a 4-3 and 3-4 scheme in his time at Mississippi State.) (3-2-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-4-combine-pass-rushers-who-could-interest-lions

O'HARA: Combine to feature edge rushers with strong credentials (Defensive end Montez Sweat of Mississippi State is a player who’s already made an impression. He had 29.5 tackles for loss with 22 sacks in his last two seasons. He added to his resume with a strong Senior Bowl performance.) (3-2-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-combine-to-feature-edge-rushers-with-strong-credentials

NFL Draft 2019: A big board of the top 25 Lions targets entering the combine (13. Montez Sweat, EDGE, Mississippi State:  The Lions like players of need who produce in major conferences, and Montez Sweat fits that bill well. Over the past two seasons, Sweat has racked up a combined 30 tackles for loss and 22.5 sacks. On film, he doesn't show up as well snap-to-snap, particularly against the run, as he needs to add strength. His play effort and progress at the Senior Bowl inspire hope that he'll develop into his lengthy frame, so how far along he is physically at the combine could help decide where in the first he winds up.) (2-26-19):  https://expo.mlive.com/sports/g66l-2019/02/25732221735574/nfl-draft-2019-a-big-board-of-the-top-50-lions-targets-entering-the-combine.html

NFL combine 2019: Nick Bosa, Rashan Gary headline deep crop of EDGE players (Montez Sweat, Mississippi State:  Bob Quinn has raided the SEC for two of his three first-round picks. Sweat, meantime, made his SEC debut last year by racking up a league-high 10.5 sacks. He started drawing more attention in 2018, and still got loose for another 11.5 sacks. He does play a little high, and doesn't convert speed to power as well as you'd like at this point, but he's also a high-volume pass rusher who has a lot of room to grow into his rangy 6-foot-6 frame (with nearly 36-inch arms). The transition might be a little longer than others at the top of this class, but there's serious upside too. He's a solid first-round prospect who helped himself last month at the Senior Bowl, and could do so again with a big week at the combine.) (2-19-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/02/03a3818f381488/nfl-combine-2019-joey-bosa-rashan-gary-headline-deep-crop-of-edge-players-.html

2019 Combine Preview: Edge rusher (Brian Burns - Best trait: Versatility. Sweat was a handful to block at the Senior Bowl because of his combination of length, speed and power. The former tight end turned pass rusher looks like he might also have the ability to play in space.  Concern: His tall frame can make him play too high at times. Playing with better pad level will likely be a focus for him early on.  Skinny: Sweat recorded 10.5 sacks as a junior and followed that up with 11.5 this past season to go along with 14 tackles for loss. He was productive in the SEC, and was one of the better performers at the Senior Bowl. A good week at the Combine could cement his status as one of the best pass rushers in this draft.) (2-15-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2019-combine-preview-edge-rusher

TWENTYMAN: 2019 Senior Bowl observations (Not just a pass rusher – Mississippi State defensive end Montez Sweat had a really good week of practice and was consistently the best pass rusher all week. Sweat (6-6, 252) showed Saturday there’s more to his game than just rushing the passer. He made a number of plays against the run, including stuffing Michigan running back Karan Higdon at the goal line.) (1-27-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-2019-senior-bowl-observations

Senior Bowl: Lock, Isabella impress in win - Drew Lock looked every bit the first-round pick on Saturday while Daniel Jones struggled with consistency (The talk all week was about how Montez Sweat was getting after it. Kansas State's Dalton Risner w would have none of it on Saturday, doing a great job to keep Sweat off the stat sheet (he finished with one tackle; it was impressive, for sure, but you'd like to see more). Risner is expected to kick inside in the NFL, where he'll be a Day 1 starter, but it's clear he can play tackle too. He and Boston College's Chris Lindstrom (another potential first-rounder) were doing work during the game) (1-26-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-senior-bowl-only-one-of-drew-lock-daniel-jones-looks-like-first-rounder-isabella-mclaurin-shine-in-win/

2019 Senior Bowl Stock Report (Up - Sweat:  Sweat was the best player at the 2019 Senior Bowl and was superb in practice all week. Aside from performing well in the one-on-ones, Sweat was very good in the team scrimmage. He gave offensive tackles all they could handle with his speed, length and athleticism. Sweat is fast off the edge with a good first step, agility to bend and length to fight off blocks. Sweat had three good practices to solidify his standing on the opening night of the draft and improve his potential for going higher.) (1-26-19):  http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2019stock.php

Senior Bowl 2019: How local players fared (Montez Sweat, South DE, Mississippi State:  Sweat had one tackle. He transferred from Michigan State in 2016, and recorded 22½ sacks in his two seasons with the Bulldogs.) (1-26-19):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/2019/01/26/senior-bowl-2019/2688921002/

9 NFL Draft prospects for the Lions to watch in the Senior Bowl (Montez Sweat, Mississippi State EDGE (South):  The Senior Bowl gets some top-notch athletes these days, and Sweat would be that guy this year. At a listed 6 feet 6 inches and 245 pounds, he showed his speed and burst as he racked up a combined 30 tackles for loss and 22.5 sacks the past two seasons in the Southeastern Conference. He has reportedly thrown people around so far at the Senior Bowl, and all signs point toward him filling out his frame as a pro. If he doesn't stop impressing, he could wind up as an option for the Lions with the eighth overall pick.) (1-26-19):   https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/6fad53d4b76646/9-nfl-draft-prospects-for-the-lions-to-watch-in-the-senior-bowl.html

10 players who impressed at Senior Bowl practices (Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State, 6-6, 252:  Sweat likely made himself some money here in Mobile this week. He was considered a mid to late first-round pick coming in, but had a terrific week that might just move him up some boards. Physically, he fits the bill. He showed off a terrific blend of power and quickness in both individual pass rush drills and in team periods. He has a wide range of moves that will give him a head start on his rookie campaign.) (1-25-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-players-who-impressed-at-senior-bowl-practices

A Senior Bowl pass rusher for every round for the Lions (First round: Montez Sweat, Mississippi State:  One of the big winners from the practice sessions in Mobile, Sweat displayed the coveted ability to win with both power and speed. His one-armed stiff arm was brutally effective, and he showed the ability to finish with a variety of moves.  The 6-6, 252-pound Sweat paired nicely with Jeffery Simmons to wreak havoc on opposing offenses for the Bulldogs the last two years. If the name rings a louder bell, Sweat originally played at Michigan State before transferring.) (1-25-19):   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/01/25/senior-bowl-pass-rusher-for-every-round-detroit-lions/

Senior Bowl winners, losers (Players who improved their stock - Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State:  It sounds like a broken record at this point in the proceedings but Sweat has been lights out from start to finish. He came into the week with gaudy college numbers -- he logged 22.5 sacks and 30 tackles for loss his last two seasons -- but the big question mark about Sweat's game was if he had the flexibility to consistently beat offensive tackles around the edge.  Well, he answered that question and plenty of others in Mobile.  We've had Sweat as a late first-round pick in our mock drafts dating back to October but if the next few months play out like Senior Bowl week, he'll be a top-15 selection. He's been that good.) (1-25-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-senior-bowl-week-winners-and-losers-sweat-samuel-lock-improve-stock-grier-among-those-to-struggle/

Senior Bowl: Samuel wins week (No conversation about Senior Bowl week would be complete without mentioning Montez Sweat, the Mississippi State defensive end who logged 22.5 sacks his last two seasons. He's big, physical and strong -- all things NFL teams want in an edge rusher -- but he came to Mobile with questions about his flexibility around the edge. He answered those questions and then some; we've regularly had Sweat going near the end of the first round in most of our mock drafts, but we wouldn't be surprised if he ends up among the first 15 players selected.) (1-24-19:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-senior-bowl-deebo-samuel-wins-the-week-deshaun-davis-and-rock-ya-sin-make-their-case/

2019 Senior Bowl: Thursday Practice Report: South Team (There were two players who continued their Senior Bowl trend of raising and hurting their draft stock for the South team. Mississippi State edge rusher Josh Sweat finished off his excellent week with a superb practice Thursday. Aside from performing well in the one-on-ones all week, Sweat was excellent in the team scrimmage. He ate up the tackles with his speed, length and athleticism. He had a couple of sacks using speed around the corner to get to Will Grier and then finished off the scrimmage with what could have been a strip-sack if the players were hitting the quarterbacks. Sweat had three good practices to solidify his standing on the opening night of the draft and improve his potential for going higher.):  http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2019practice4.php

2019 SENIOR BOWL: DAY 3 SOUTH PRACTICE NOTES (If you’re wondering why you aren’t seeing many Montez Sweat highlights on Twitter, he’s the last pass-rusher in the rotation for every set of one-on-ones. No defensive lineman has had fewer isolated reps this week than him. Be it a decision by him or the coaching staff, it’s worth noting that the star of the game is being buried a bit.) (1-24-19):  http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2019-senior-bowl-day-3-south-practice-notes

2019 Senior Bowl: Thursday Rumor Mill (Team sources said that the most impressive prospects to them were three edge rushers. They said the best of the group on Tuesday was Mississippi State's Montez Sweat. A little bit behind him was Louisiana Tech's Jaylon Ferguson, and a bit behind Ferguson was Granderson. All three of them showed speed, functional strength, and natural feel as pass rushers.   Sources said Sweat (6-6, 252) entered the Senior Bowl as a prospect some saw as a late first-round or early second-round pick. Back at the East-West Shrine, some sources asked me if I thought Sweat would get to Round 2, and I said no. If he continues this caliber of play throughout the week of practice in Mobile, there will be no doubt that Sweat ends up being a first-round pick.  Ferguson (6-4, 256) has some fans and skeptics in the scouting community, but a big week in Mobile could put him in the first round conversation. Granderson (6-4, 246) is more of a second-day prospect, but he could be helping himself to move up in Day 2.  Sweat, Ferguson and Granderson all must add weight and strength for run defense in the NFL. They also would probably fit best in a 3-4 defense as outside linebackers. Opinions will vary, and some sources will prefer other players, but those were the three that some team sources said performed the best.) (1-24-19):  http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2019rumors4.php

Top players for Lions to watch at Senior Bowl (1. Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State. You'd be hard pressed to find a player generating more buzz this week in Mobile than Sweat, a defensive end who transferred from one MSU to another. The debate is just beginning about whether or not Sweat is a top 10 pick, but if he works his way high on the list, you can bet the Lions will be all eyes as it relates to his skill set and potential fit in their defense given they are looking for edge rushers. If Sweat is a top 10 pick, a good spot to start watching for him could be Detroit if he keeps up the performance this week.) (1-24-19):  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Senior-Bowl-Lions-players-to-watch-128248167/

Senior Bowl offers wealth of edge-rushing talent for Lions to consider (Another name to watch in the early rounds is Mississippi State’s Montez Sweat. A Michigan State transfer, he played a year at a junior college, before taking the SEC by storm, racking up 22.5 sacks the past two seasons.  Sweat stands 6-foot-6 and weighed in at a lean 252 pounds. Strength didn’t appear a problem for the lanky prospect. On the first day of practices, he regularly overpowered his assignments in one-on-one action.) (1-23-19):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/01/23/senior-bowl-offers-wealth-edge-rushing-talent-lions-consider/2660807002/

2019 Senior Bowl: Standouts from Tuesday's practices (Sweat - The best edge rusher coming into Mobile landed on this list, go figure. He made several tackles look silly with his ability to transfer speed to power. His long arms helped keep his chest clean and when the tackles finally started to adjust, he showed the ability to counter move. It was fun to watch him go up against the highly touted OT Andre Dillard.) (1-23-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/01/23/2019-senior-bowl-day-1-practice-standouts/

2019 Senior Bowl – South Practice Report (Coming into the week I thought Mississippi St. DE Montez Sweat had a chance to be this year’s version of Marcus Davenport. A year ago Davenport arrived at the Senior Bowl as more of a late first round pick and played his way into the Top 15 overall. It’s only the first day but Sweat is already trending in that direction.  It started at the weigh-in, where Sweat had scouts drooling over his 6-6 / 252 pound frame with 35 5/8 inch vines for arms. It certainly didn’t stop there though. Sweat was also a standout at practice on a squad littered with highly-rated sack artists. A dynamic athlete with terrific speed, Sweat terrorizes blockers off the edge and was one of a select few to get the best of Washington St OT Andre Dillard today. He isn’t a complete liability against the run either, using his length and hands to disengage. I still want to see how well Sweat moves in space this week and whether he’s capable of playing on his feet as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. However, my inclination is that he appears best suited to play with his hand on the ground.  Right now the consensus seems to be that Nick Bosa of Ohio St., Rashan Gary of Michigan and Clelin Ferrell of Clemson are the top defensive ends in this class. All three could be gone in the Top 10 overall though. If that happens somebody is going to get pushed up and Sweat is making a strong case for himself.) (1/22/19):  http://www.draftcountdown.com/2019/2019-senior-bowl-south-practice-report-1-22-19/

TWENTYMAN: Senior Bowl practice observations (Sweat was pretty impressive during his first practice of the week, not only in the 1-on-1 drills against the offensive linemen, but he also blew up a team rep for a would-be sack. He has a nice blend of size, speed and power. He weighed in at 6-foot-6, 252 pounds Tuesday morning. He had 12 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss in the SEC this past season.) (1-22-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-senior-bowl-practice-observations

Senior Bowl notebook, Day 1: Montez Sweat rising into top 10 (Montez Sweat, edge, Mississippi State: Sweat annihilated everyone he matched up against today during the South team practice. He's going to end up being picked in the top 10, and his performance on Tuesday demonstrates why he's going to be selected so early.  The former Mississippi State star showed that he has developed a few different moves with his hands, and he also showed some variety in how he rushed guys. The bottom line is he used his length to defeat blockers in pass protection on a consistent basis. He's 6-foot-6, 252 pounds with 35 5/8-inch arms. That's a big deal to NFL teams. Everyone knows he's going to grow into his frame like Danielle Hunter did coming out of LSU, and that's my player comp for him. Hunter wasn't a first-round pick -- he went in the third round -- but Sweat is going to be a first-rounder because teams are going to be quicker to recognize his talent than they were with Hunter.  Sweat was the most dominant guy out here on Day 1. If you had him as a late first-rounder, you need to go back and reassess your grade for him. I projected him for the late teens in Round 1 coming into this week, but that might be too low for him. -- Lance Zierlein) (1-22-19):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001012729/article/senior-bowl-notebook-day-1-montez-sweat-rising-into-top-10

Senior Bowl South: Sweat, Mack excel Tuesday (The wet, blustery conditions may have made watching the first day of Senior Bowl practice an uncomfortable proposition for fans and media in attendance, but it was no match for Montez Sweat. The Mississippi State edge rusher was the best defensive player on the field for the South squad, dominating one-on-one drills in much the way he dominated opponents in 2018. Sweat had 12 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss as a senior, a year after he had 10.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss in '17. And there is no stat-padding either; on third down in '18, Sweat had seven sacks (which ranked fourth in FBS), 15 hurries (ninth), 13 hits (second), five knockdowns (third) and 25 pressures (fifth). If you're an NFL team and of the opinion that getting off the field on third down is important, Sweat is your guy.) (1-22-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-senior-bowl-montez-sweat-daylon-mack-dominant-on-tuesday-south-quarterbacks-looked-rusty/

2019 SENIOR BOWL: DAY 1 SOUTH PRACTICE NOTES (Mississippi State DE Montez Sweat looked the part of the most-hyped defensive lineman on the South squad in Practice 1. The long pass-rusher flashed his 36” arms in passing-rushing one-on-ones. After one rep, an NFL scout compared his game to former Pro Bowler Robert Quinn’s.) (1-22-19):  http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2019-senior-bowl-day-1-south-practice-notes

Winners, losers from 2019 Senior Bowl weigh-ins (Winner - Sweat:  Sweat is entering the Senior Bowl as one of the top-rated edge rushers, and he certainly started his week off on a great note Tuesday morning. He came in at 6-foot-6 and 252 pounds, but his 35 5/8-inch arms are tentacle-like and his wingspan lies at 84 1/2 inches. With a strong outing combined with his eye-popping frame, it could very well land him as a top-20 selection.) (1-22-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/01/22/2019-senior-bowl-weigh-in-winners-losers/

Notre Dame LB among Lions' prospects to watch at Senior Bowl (Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State: One of the SEC’s most productive linemen at 6-foot-6, 241 pounds, he had 14 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks last season. He could be a replacement for Ezekiel Ansah and would be an intriguing player at the top of the second round if he lasted that long or if the Lions trade down from No. 8.) (1-22-19):  http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/35121/kentucky-lb-highlights-lions-prospects-to-watch-at-senior-bowl

NFL draft: Senior Bowl preview (Mississippi State’s Montez Sweat might have the most to gain — or lose — among the group this week, starting with the weigh-in. If he’s closer to the 240-pound range some scouts fear, it could hurt Sweat; if he comes in over 250, that’s likely to please scouts more.) (1-22-19):  https://www.profootballweekly.com/2019/01/22/nfl-draft-senior-bowl-preview/autccuk/

2019 Senior Bowl Week (Montez Sweat has a couple of plays per game where he greatly impacts the offense, and his motor is always going.) (1-22-19):  http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/85852/351/2019-senior-bowl-week

2019 Senior Bowl preview: Edge Defenders (Sweat is likely the best edge rusher on display in Mobile, and a strong showing could land him in the top-15.  Sweat is a powerful and relentless pass rusher. Unlike many of the rushers in that win with flexibility, Sweat wins with speed, power and hand usage.  Sweat comes off the ball with an explosive and long first step and has no trouble translating the speed to power. He gets his long arms extended to control offensive tackles and create backward movement. Sweat will win with push/pull and rip/club counters.  Against the run, Sweat can stack and shed to make plays inside or outside. He has experience attacking the line from all different angles. Sweat is a bit stiff and lacks flexibility.) (1-21-19):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/01/21/2019-senior-bowl-preview-edge-defenders/

12 Senior Bowl players for Lions fans to watch this week (Montez Sweat, Edge, Mississippi State:  Sweat worked well as a pass rusher in conjunction with some talented cohorts with the Bulldogs. Now he has to prove he can shine on his own in individual drills. The length and power appear to be a nice fit for the Lions, but does he have the movement skills and athleticism to play the edge in Detroit?) (1-21-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/01/21/12-senior-bowl-players-for-lions-fans-to-watch-this-week/

Senior Bowl: 7 players for the Lions to watch (Mississippi State DE Montez Sweat:  The Lions need pass-rushing help, so much so that it’s almost a lock they take an end somewhere early in the draft. There aren’t many candidates for the eighth overall pick playing in Mobile, but Sweat, like Allen, is a potential first-round pass rusher. He’s 6-feet-6 and 245 pounds, and he had double-digit sacks each of the last two years. The Michigan State transfer had a great career in the SEC and would be an ideal fit for the Lions at right end.) (1-20-19):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/01/20/detroit-lions-2019-senior-bowl/2631029002/

10 defensive ends the Detroit Lions could target in NFL draft (Sweat began his career at Michigan State in 2014 before spending a year at a junior college and two seasons at Mississippi State. He's another defensive end/outside linebacker who thrived on the edge. Sweat had 53 tackles, including 14 for a loss, 11.5 sacks and seven quarterback hurries this season. Kiper listed him as the No. 5 defensive end in the draft and the potential first-round pick will play in the Senior Bowl.) (1-17-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/fa9ca596088576/10-defensive-ends-the-detroit-lions-could-target-in-nfl-draft.html

Outback Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Mississippi State vs. Iowa bowl game (Montez Sweat, EDGE:   A tall edge-rusher, Sweat dominated up front with 29.5 tackles for loss and 22 sacks over the last two seasons after transferring from Michigan State. His motor runs high, and he generates a hefty amount of power despite being somewhat lanky at 240 pounds. Sweat is an explosive linear athlete. He's a little bit stiff around the edge too and can get overpowered by more compact linemen who get under his pads. Sweat should land in the late first round or second.) (12-31-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/outback-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-mississippi-state-vs-iowa-bowl-game/

Scout’s Eye: Bowl Edition – Part IV (DE Montez Sweat, Mississippi State, SR (6-5, 241, 4.78, #9): A menace who is constantly disrupting the backfield, Sweat has been downright dominant at times this season thanks to his speed, power and athleticism. He possesses a diverse pass-rush repertoire, while playing defensive end and outside linebacker in the Bulldogs hybrid defensive scheme. He played his freshman season of football at Michigan State, then a season at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, before landing at Mississippi State. The scouting community was happy to hear that Sweat, a potential first round pick, will be participating in both his bowl game and the Senior Bowl.) (12-29-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-bowl-edition-part-iv--IHTlG89Bkq--cT8bCVQDA/

The Draft Prospects the NFL Is Watching This Bowl Season (Mississippi State: The Bulldogs have two first-round caliber defensive linemen in DE Montez Sweat and DT Jeffrey Simmons, but both have character concerns. Sweat is the kind of lanky, flexible edge-bender that is always in demand. Simmons has outstanding athleticism for a 300-pounder. Along with masterful hand use, he is often unblockable.) (12-27-18):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/27/2019-nfl-draft-bowl-season

NFL Draft 2019 Position Primers: Nick Bosa, Clelin Ferrell the Top Edge Rushers (MONTEZ SWEAT, DE, MISSISSIPPI STATE:  Sweat is 6' 6", and that towering height makes him a constant threat to swat passes at the line. He started his college career at Michigan State then transferred to Starkville, where he’s racked up 23 sacks. Sweat can bull rush right through a lineman and has elite quickness, but east-west blocking schemes can give him headaches. When he’s rushing from the edge, and the tackle drives him farther outside and away from the quarterback, Sweat can struggle with reversing course to chase him.  His closing ability is top-tier for this class. When he’s within striking distance of the quarterback, Sweat pounces. Double-digit sacks in two consecutive SEC seasons is no joke. Sweat is teeming with star potential.) (12-21-18):   https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/21/nfl-draft-2019-top-edge-rushers-nick-bosa-clelin-ferrell

Six NFL draft prospects whose 2018 production didn't meet the hype (MONTEZ SWEAT, EDGE, MISSISSIPPI STATE (85.1):  We at PFF have said for years that sack numbers can be misleading. Even the most prolific pass-rushers will still only register sacks on less than five percent of their pass-rushes. That’s why even though we have Sweat down for 23 sacks over the last two seasons, we’re worried about his pass-rushing production. He’s only notched 44 pressures this season which ranks 30th among edge defenders and of those 44 pressures, 17 were either unblocked or deemed clean-up pressures. That translates to only a few true pass-rushing wins per game which sounds far less impressive than his sack totals.) (12-17-18):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-six-over-hyped-prospects-for-2019-nfl-draft

A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (Bulldogs redshirt senior linebacker Montez Sweat (6 feet 6 inches, 241 pounds), a Michigan State transfer, has 30 tackles for loss and 23 sacks combined over the past two seasons.) (12-15-18):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html

Ole Miss-Mississippi State: Top 2019 NFL draft prospects to watch for (Montez Sweat is one of college football’s most electric pass rushers, who makes his presence known week in and week out. Sweat came back for his senior season after leading the SEC in sacks with 10.5 and tackles for loss with 15.5.  At 6-foot-5 and 241 pounds, Sweat is a powerful and relentless pass rusher. Unlike many of the rushers in that win with flexibility, Sweat wins with speed, power and hand usage.  Sweat comes off the ball with an explosive and long first step and has no trouble translating the speed to power. He gets his long arms extended to control offensive tackles and create backward movement. Sweat will win with push/pull and rip/club counters.  Against the run, Sweat can stack and shed to make plays inside or outside. He has experience attacking the line from all different angles. Sweat is a bit stiff and lacks flexibility. Sweat projects as a base 4-3 defensive end at the next level.) (11-22-18):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/11/22/ole-miss-mississippi-state-top-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-for/

Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Montez Sweat, DE/OLB, Mississippi State:  “Talented player, he’s really long and he looks like a small forward. He has natural pass rush ability. He has a long stride, it doesn’t always look like it. He is powerful and he can rush the passer. He is playing really strong at the point of attack and playing the run a lot better than he did in the past. He is not just a pass rusher. The tricky part is the character stuff, he has some off the field stuff he has to clean up and show teams that he has rehabilitated himself. [Sweat started his college career at Michigan State in 2014 and was suspended for a violation of team rules after the second game of the 2015 season that caused him to miss the rest of the season. He left Michigan State the following spring, and played a season at junior college before joining Mississippi State in 2017]. He is probably a late first-rounder, early second-rounder. If anyone is projecting him higher they aren’t factoring in the character concerns.”) (11-21-18):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports

2019 NFL Draft Big Board 1.0: Nick Bosa No. 1, Justin Herbert Top QB at No. 13 (16. MONTEZ SWEAT, DE/OLB, MISSISSIPPI STATE:  Another pass-rusher in a class full of them, Sweat is a tall and angular pressure player who will probably go just behind his teammate Simmons.) (11-15-18):   https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/15/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (19.  Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State: Taking on Alabama, Sweat had five tackles with some pressure off the edge. Mississippi State lost to LSU in a contest that saw Sweat collect seven tackles and one sack. Versus Auburn, Sweat was excellent after halftime following a quiet first half. He burned the Tigers' tackles with speed rushes and had three sacks to help close out the win for the Bulldogs. While Mississippi State lost to Florida, Sweat got the better of Gators offensive tackles Jawaan Taylor and Martez Ivey. Taking on Kentucky, Sweat did well in the pass rush, but he needs to get better in run defense for the NFL. Sweat recorded seven tackles with 1.5 sacks against the Wildcats. Previously, he was very productive against Stephen F. Austin and Kansas State. Sweat is up to totals of 41 tackles, 12 for a loss and 9.5 sacks on the year.) (11-13-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama's Quinnen Williams rising but not (yet) No. 1 (14. Sweat:  Sweat exploded onto the SEC scene as a junior transfer from Michigan State. He registered an eye-popping 15.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks among his 48 stops alongside Simmons to give the Bulldogs as fearsome a 1-2 punch along the defensive line as there is in college football. He has been even better in 2018, steadily rising up draft boards with 8.5 sacks through just seven games, thus far, according to the Bulldogs' official website. Teams intrigued with former LSU star Arden Key a season ago will love Sweat, who possesses similar burst and bend off the corner, but with greater consistency.) (11-8-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-s-quinnen-williams-rising-but-not-yet-no-1-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

Scout's Eye: Top NFL Prospects to Watch in Week 11 (DE Montez Sweat, Mississippi State, SR (6-5, 241, 4.78, #9): A menace who is constantly disrupting the backfield, Sweat has been downright dominant at times this season, thanks to his speed, power and athleticism. He possesses a diverse pass-rush repertoire, while playing defensive end and outside linebacker in the Bulldogs' hybrid defensive scheme. The Georgia native was a basketball standout in high school. He played his freshman season of football at Michigan State, then a season at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, before landing at Mississippi State. Coaches say he has shown a new maturity during his time in Starkville.) (11-8-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-top-nfl-prospects-to-watch-in-week-11-YJXIsG_qr0qtj8irwhwkTA/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (19.  Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State. (Previously: 19 Avg. 15.8 per 11):  Taking on Louisiana Tech, Sweat had three tackles with a sack. Mississippi State lost to LSU in a contest that saw Sweat collect seven tackles with one sack. Versus Auburn, Sweat was excellent after halftime following a quiet first half. He burned the Tigers' tackles with speed rushes and had three sacks to help close out the win for the Bulldogs. While Mississippi State lost to Florida, Sweat got the better of Gators offensive tackles Jawaan Taylor and Martez Ivey. Taking on Kentucky, Sweat did well in the pass rush, but he needs to get better in run defense for the NFL. Sweat recorded seven tackles with 1.5 sacks against the Wildcats. Previously, he was very productive against Stephen F. Austin and Kansas State. Sweat is up to totals of 36 tackles, 12 for a loss and 9.5 sacks on the year.) (11-7-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama vs. LSU highlight must-see Week 10 matchups:  (​14. Montez Sweat, DE/OLB, Mississippi State, SR:  Sweat exploded onto the SEC scene as a junior transfer from Michigan State. He registered an eye-popping 15.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks among his 48 stops alongside Simmons to give the Bulldogs as fearsome a 1-2 punch along the defensive line as there is in college football. He has been even better in 2018, steadily rising up draft boards with 8.5 sacks through just seven games, thus far, according to the Bulldogs’ official website. Teams intrigued with former LSU star Arden Key a season ago will love Sweat, who possesses similar burst and bend off the corner, but with greater consistency.)  (11-2-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-vs-lsu-highlight-must-see-week-10-matchups-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (19.  Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State. (Previously: 19 Avg. 15.5 per 10): Taking on Texas A&M, Sweat had two tackles. Mississippi State lost to LSU in a contest that saw Sweat collect seven tackles with one sack. Versus Auburn, Sweat was excellent after halftime following a quiet first half. He burned the Tigers' tackles with speed rushes and had three sacks to help close out the win for the Bulldogs. While Mississippi State lost to Florida, Sweat got the better of Gators offensive tackles Jawaan Taylor and Martez Ivey. Taking on Kentucky, Sweat did well in the pass rush, but he needs to get better in run defense for the NFL. Sweat recorded seven tackles with 1.5 sacks against the Wildcats. Previously, he was very productive against Stephen F. Austin and Kansas State. Sweat is up to totals of 33 tackles, 11 for a loss and 8.5 sacks on the year.) (10-31-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Surprising QB class shakes up the rankings (14. Sweat (2018: 31 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks (seven games)):  Sweat exploded onto the SEC scene as a junior transfer from Michigan State. He registered an eye-popping 15.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks among his 48 stops alongside Simmons to give the Bulldogs as fearsome a 1-2 punch along the defensive line as there is in college football. He has been even better in 2018, steadily rising up draft boards with 8.5 sacks through just seven games, thus far, according to the Bulldogs’ official website. Teams intrigued with former LSU star Arden Key a season ago will love Sweat, who possesses similar burst and bend off the corner, but with greater consistency.) (10-26-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-surprising-qb-class-shakes-up-the-rankings-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (19. Sweat:  Mississippi State lost to LSU in a contest that saw Sweat collect seven tackles with one sack. Versus Auburn, Sweat was excellent after halftime following a quiet first half. He burned the Tigers' tackles with speed rushes and had three sacks to help close out the win for the Bulldogs. While Mississippi State lost to Florida, Sweat got the better of Gators offensive tackles Jawaan Taylor and Martez Ivey. Taking on Kentucky, Sweat did well in the pass rush, but he needs to get better in run defense for the NFL. Sweat recorded seven tackles with 1.5 sacks against the Wildcats. Previously, he was very productive against Stephen F. Austin and Kansas State. Sweat is up to totals of 31 tackles, 11 for a loss and 8.5 sacks on the year.) (10-24-18):http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: ACC, SEC defenders rising as rivalry games begin (17. Sweat ((2018: 24 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks (six games)): Sweat exploded onto the SEC scene as a junior transfer from Michigan State. He registered an eye-popping 15.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks among his 48 stops alongside Simmons to give the Bulldogs as fearsome a 1-2 punch along the defensive line as there is in college football. He has been even better in 2018, steadily rising up draft boards with 7.5 sacks through just six games, thus far, tied for the lead in the SEC. Teams intrigued with former LSU star Arden Key a season ago will love Sweat, who possesses similar burst and bend off the corner, but with greater consistency.) (10-18-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-acc-sec-defenders-rising-as-rivalry-games-begin-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (19.  Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State. (Previously: 20 Avg. 14.6 per 8): Mississippi State had a bye last week. Following a quiet first half, Sweat was excellent after halftime versus Auburn. He burned the Tigers' tackles with speed rushes and had three sacks to help close out the win for the Bulldogs. While Mississippi State lost to Florida, Sweat got the better of Gators offensive tackles Jawaan Taylor and Martez Ivey. Taking on Kentucky, Sweat did well in the pass rush, but he needs to get better in run defense for the NFL. Sweat recorded seven tackles with 1.5 sacks against the Wildcats. Previously, he was very productive against Stephen F. Austin and Kansas State. Sweat is up to totals of 24 tackles, 10 for a loss and 7.5 sacks on the year.) (10-17-18):
http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board - Oregon's Justin Herbert to be tested by gifted UW DBs (19. Sweat (2018:  24 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, eight sacks (six games)):  Sweat exploded onto the SEC scene as a junior transfer from Michigan State, registering an eye-popping 15.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks among his 48 stops alongside Simmons to give the Bulldogs as fearsome a 1-2 punch along the defensive line as there is in college football. Teams intrigued with former LSU star Arden Key a season ago will love Sweat, who possesses similar burst and bend off the corner, but with greater consistency.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-oregon-s-justin-herbert-to-be-tested-by-gifted-uw-dbs-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (20. Sweat:  Following a quiet first half, Sweat was excellent after halftime versus Auburn. He burned the Tigers' tackles with speed rushes and had three sacks to help close out the win for the Bulldogs. While Mississippi State lost to Florida, Sweat got the better of Gators offensive tackles Jawaan Taylor and Martez Ivey. Taking on Kentucky, Sweat did well in the pass rush, but he needs to get better in run defense for the NFL. Sweat recorded seven tackles with 1.5 sacks against the Wildcats. Previously, he was very productive against Stephen F. Austin and Kansas State. Sweat is up to totals of 24 tackles, 10 for a loss and 7.5 sacks on the year.) (10-10-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

NFL Prospect Matchups: Auburn vs. Miss State (Montez Sweat is also graded as a potential early second-day choice, and though he shows a lot of pass rush skill, his long, thin build is a concern projecting his ability to stop the run at the next level.) (10-5-18):   http://draftanalyst.com/nfl-prospect-matchups-auburn-vs-miss-state

2018 NFL Draft Big Board - New duo boost already dominant defensive line class (25.  Sweat (2018: 21 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, five sacks (five games)): Sweat exploded onto the SEC scene as a junior transfer from Michigan State, registering an eye-popping 15.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks among his 48 stops alongside Simmons to give the Bulldogs as fearsome a 1-2 punch along the defensive line as there is in college football. Teams intrigued with former LSU star Arden Key a season ago will love Sweat, who possesses similar burst and bend off the corner, but with greater consistency.) (10-4-18):   https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2018-nfl-draft-big-board-new-duo-boost-already-dominant-defensive-line-class-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (21.  Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State. (Previously: 12 Avg. 13.2 per 6): While Mississippi State lost to Florida, Sweat got the better of Gator offensive tackles Jawaan Taylor and Martez Ivey. Taking on Kentucky, Sweat did well in the pass rush, but he needs to get better in run defense for the NFL. Sweat recorded seven tackles with 1.5 sacks against the Wildcats. Previously, he was very productive against Stephen F. Austin and Kansas State. Sweat is up to totals of 21 tackles, seven for a loss and 4.5 sacks on the year. ) (10-3-18):   http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (11. Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State. (Previously: 11 Avg. 11.5 per 4): Sweat was very productive against Stephen F. Austin and Kansas State. He is up to totals of 11 tackles, 5.5 for a loss and three sacks.) (9-19-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Walterfootball Big Board (11. Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State. (Previously: 12 Avg. 11.7 per 3) - 09/12/18: Sweat was very productive against Stephen F. Austin and Kansas State. He is up to totals of nine tackles, 5.5 for a loss and three sacks.   08/30/18: Sweat debuted for the Bulldogs with an excellent 2017 season as a dynamic edge defender. He totaled an SEC-leading 10.5 sacks, with 15.5 tackles for a loss and 48 tackles for the year. To start out his collegiate career, Sweat played at Michigan State before some disciplinary issues led to him leaving for the junior college ranks at Co-Lin Community College. Sweat could add weight to become a defensive end, stay as an outside linebacker, or be a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL.  Sweat is a dangerous pass-rusher who shows good instincts and natural feel off the edge. He has good play recognition and uses his instincts to get in the right position to affect the quarterback or disrupt plays. For a tall defender, Sweat possesses a nice ability to redirect, and he uses that to get after the quarterback or defend the perimeter. As a pure pass-rusher, Sweat is quick off the edge with the speed to turn the corner and run around offensive tackles. One of his most impressive traits is his active hands to fight off blocks while using his feet at the same time. Sweat has some functional strength that he uses to get off blocks and shows impressive hand placement to get under the pads of blockers or rip them away from him. Sweat's excellent length helps him to do that and also makes it harder for offensive tackles to get into his chest. Once he gets free, Sweat has burst to close on the quarterback.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Bryant, Sweat earn week two honors (9-10-18):   https://www.seniorbowl.com/news-highlights-detail.php?news=840

Five possible Lions draft prospects: Week 2 (Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State (No. 9) (Mississippi State at Kansas State, noon, ESPN):  Hey, you remember this guy? He was at Michigan State for two years (2014-15) and never really cracked the rotation. Now, at Mississippi State, he’s turning into a beast. He exploded for 10.5 sacks last year, his first with the Bulldogs.  The rangy, 6-foot-6 edge rusher is off to a hot start this year, abusing an inferior Week 1 opponent for six tackles (3.5 for a loss) and 2 sacks. It’s not clear what he’s weighing in at these days, but it appears to be several pounds more his listed weight of 241.) (9-8-18):https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/08/five-possible-lions-draft-prospects-week-2/1224074002/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board: More D-linemen added after wowing in Week One (30. Sweat (2018: 9 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks (two games)): Sweat exploded onto the SEC scene as a junior transfer from Michigan State, providing the Bulldogs with an ideal complement on the outside to Simmons, one of the more gifted interior defensive linemen in the country. Teams intrigued with former LSU star Arden Key a season ago will love Sweat, who possesses similar burst and bend off the corner, but with greater consistency.) (9-6-18):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-more-d-linemen-added-after-wowing-in-week-one-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/

Scouting the SEC - Mississippi State (A lot of scouts love Montez Sweat, but I just don’t see it.  Sweat is long, relatively athletic and flashes pass-rush skill. He can knife through double teams if he gets the first step on opponents and easily moves about the field. Sweat also lacks bulk and is constantly handled at the point of attack by a single opponent.  I’m not sure if he’s a 3-4 linebacker or defensive end in a four-man line.)  (8-15-18):   http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-sec-mississippi-state

2018 college football season: Top 11 defensive linemen to watch (10. Sweat:  After beginning his college career at Michigan State and then spending a year at Copiah-Lincoln Community College (in Wesson, Mississippi), Sweat transferred to Mississippi State where he excelled in the SEC as a first-time starter. Sweat is a lanky defensive end with long arms and a thin lower body. Despite lacking desired play strength, Sweat recorded 15.5 tackles for loss last season, including 10.5 sacks in the final nine games. He can rush with extremely long strides that allow him to close out quarterbacks much more quickly than expected. He also uses those strides and arm length to ensnare ball carriers way out on the perimeter. Sweat can be locked up by power, so it will be important for him to improve his upper- and lower-body strength to counter the power he'll face at the next level.) (7-13-18):http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000940247/article/2018-college-football-season-top-11-defensive-linemen-to-watch

NFL Draft Defender Ranks (4. Sweat:  Montez Sweat is a 6-foot-6, 241-pound twitchy athlete off the edge. He posted 15.5 TFL and 10.5 sacks in his first year as a starter. If he takes another leap this fall, I’ve placed him too low.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks

DE Chase Winovich:

Michigan’s Chase Winovich wants to be known as more than a ‘try-hard white guy’ (3-4-19):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/03/michigans-chase-winovich-wants-to-be-known-as-more-than-a-try-hard-white-guy.html

Sunday's 2019 Combine winners: EDGE rushers (The other half of the Wolverines EDGE duo, Winovich often gets overlooked because of Gary’s athleticism but he quietly put together an impressive day all over the field. At 256 pounds, Winovich’s 4.59 (40) is above-average, but his 1.55 (10) was very impressive. He also looked natural in drills, showing flexibility and technique, as well as the ability to drop in linebacker drills.) (3-3-19):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/sundays-2019-combine-winners-edge-rushers/

2019 NFL Combine Stock Report: Defensive Linemen (Up - There were questions about Chase Winovich's athleticism heading into the combine. Winovich quelled those concerns with a 4.59 40-yard dash and his 1.57 10-yard split. Winovich, who posted a terrific 6.94 3-cone time, also thrived in the drills, looking extremely fluid. Winovich may not have moved into first-round consideration, but he definitely cemented his second-round status by what he did in Indianapolis.) (3-3-19):  http://walterfootball.com/combine2019stockDL.php

Combine takeaways: Big day for D-linemen (Once you get past the bigger names, the guy who jumped off the screen the most was Michigan's Chase Winovich. He wasn't expected to be one of the fastest guys on the day but he was just that, ranking fourth behind Sweat, Burns and Gary with a 4.59 40 at 256 pounds. He then did a strong job in virtually every drill, looking fluid doing work in the trenches, efficient turning the corner and better than anticipated doing linebacker-type work out in space. I think he's a sleeper for the end of the first round.) (3-3-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-results-montez-sweat-quinnen-williams-devin-white-josh-allen-dominate/

No Sweat, Mississippi State edge rusher leads dominant DL group at Combine (Among them was Michigan’s Rashan Gary, who was every bit as impressive Sunday as Sweat, recording a 4.59 second 40-yard dash at 6-4, 277 pounds and excelling during his position workout, as did his teammate Chase Winovich, who slayed suggestions that he was just a try-hard player by running a 4.59 at 6-3, 256 pounds.) (3-3-19):  https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/no-sweat-mississippi-state-edge-rusher-leads-dominant-dl-group-at-combine-lIYXFAHcLk6MN-tMaysgUg/

Top linemen and linebackers for Lions from NFL Combine (Arguably one of the more overshadowed players that was from his own school on the day, Winovich did a nice job to step up and show some solid numbers, running a 4.6 40 yard dash and getting after it well in drills. Winovich plays with the passion a team like the Lions could love on defense and that would be a huge addition for the squad if they ended up making it. Winovich could be a second or third round pick and that might not be a bad spot for the Lions to think about targeting him.) (3-3-19):  https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/ContentGallery/NFL-Combine-top-linemen-linebackers-for-Lions-129680744/

Video - Michigan defensive lineman Chase Winovich runs an official 4.59 40-yard dash at 2019 combine (3-3-19):  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/michigan-defensive-lineman-chase-winovich-runs-an-official-4-59-40-yard-dash-at-

10 defensive ends the Detroit Lions could target in NFL draft (Local Prospect - Winovich returned for his fifth year instead of leaving for the NFL and had 69 tackles, including 17 for a loss, five sacks, seven quarterback hurries and a fumble recovery this season. He is another defensive end/outside linebacker and will play in the Senior Bowl.) (1-17-19):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/fa9ca596088576/10-defensive-ends-the-detroit-lions-could-target-in-nfl-draft.html

Michigan's Chase Winovich pulls out of Senior Bowl (1-17-19):  https://www.mlive.com/wolverines/2019/01/michigans-chase-winovich-pulls-out-of-senior-bowl.html

Peach Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Michigan vs. Florida bowl game (Chase Winovich, EDGE:   Winovich possesses a desired mix of bend and motor when attacking off the edge, and that combo led to the senior recording 13 tackles for loss and four sacks in 2018 after 19 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks in 2017. Winovich isn't an impressive athlete when changing direction, but he can be very explosive moving linearly. He lacks in the pass-rush move department as well yet makes up for it with a relentless motor and a good amount of speed-to-power capability. Winovich should land on Day 2 or early Day 3.) (12-29-18):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/peach-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-michigan-vs-florida-bowl-game/

Chase Winovich receives 90.0 grade from PFF (12-16-18):  https://www.twitter.com/PFF_College/status/1074397002719473664

A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (Redshirt senior linebacker Chase Winovich (6 feet 3 inches, 245 pounds) is tough as nails and has 40.5 tackles for loss to go along with 159 tackles.) (12-15-18):  https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html

Dwayne Haskins finishes 2018 strong, stands out on PFF's All-Big Ten selections (EDGE DEFENDER - First Team: Chase Winovich, Michigan: Winovich was a monster against the run in 2018, notching 36 run stops, 15 of them either tackles for loss or tackles for no gain.) (12-3-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-haskins-stands-out-2018-all-b1g-selections

Top 25 Observations – A salute to the senior class (6. MICHIGAN - Edge Chase Winovich (87.0):  While Winovich’s status for the game of the weekend against Ohio State is still in doubt after an injury last week, the fifth-year senior has put together a stellar career for the Maize and Blue. Our current 14th-highest graded edge defender, Winovich was also the sixth-highest graded edge player in 2017 (90.5 grade). In his 1,500-plus career snaps, Winovich has 131 total QB pressures and 101 stops as well as only eight missed tackles.) (11-23-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-top-25-observations-week-13

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (34.  Chase Winovich, DE, Michigan.) (11-13-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Gabriel 2019 NFL Draft breakdown: Michigan's Devin Bush and Chase Winovich (11-10-18):   https://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/11/10/gabriel-2019-nfl-draft-breakdown-michigans-devin-bush-and-chase-winovich/ahxj6uy/

NCAA Week 10 – Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER - Chase Winovich, Michigan (Week 10 Grade: 89.8):  Michigan dominated defensively, and Winovich was once again their best player. He notched seven pressures (one sack, six hurries) on only 21 rushes and he got in on one more stop as he played an efficient 34 total snaps on the afternoon.) (11-4-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-ncaa-week-10-team-of-the-week

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (34.  Chase Winovich, DE, Michigan.) (10-31-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (34. Chase Winovich) (10-24-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Risers and Sliders -- Week 8 (Risers - Chase Winovich/Edge/Michigan: With star defensive lineman Rashan Gary sidelined with a shoulder issue the past three weeks, Winovich was forced to shoulder the load up front and he’s done exactly that. The Wolverines held interstate rival Michigan State to a total of 112 yards during their 21-7 victory, and Winovich was all over the field. He finished the game with four tackles, 0.5 tackles for loss and three hurries and made a nuisance of himself all game. Winovich is a relentless defender who plays as though his hair’s on fire, sacrificing his body to make the tackle. He comes with poor computer numbers, which will likely keep him out of the draft’s initial 90 picks, but has the temperament and ability to make an active roster in the NFL as a situational pass rusher.) (10-22-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/risers-sliders-week-8

Draft prospect watch: Michigan vs. Michigan State (Wolverines pass rusher Chase Winovich has had a fantastic season coming off the edge to pressure the passer. He plays a relentless style and is always around the ball. He showcases good ability to turn the corner and can attack the pocket with quickness, speed, and power. He is always making plays and would be an excellent addition to a Lions team needing more playmaking ability.) (10-20-18):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/10/20/draft-prospect-watch-michigan-vs-michigan-state/

Chase Winovich, Rashan Gary form the top edge defender duo in the country (10-19-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-winovich-gary-best-edge-duo-in-fbs

4 prospects for Lions fans to watch in CFB Week 7 (Chase Winovich, DE, Michigan (Michigan vs. Wisconsin, 7:30 PM EST):  Winovich is very fun players to watch because he is technically sound and plays with his hair on fire. At 6-3 and 255 pounds, he is athletic enough to take advantage of any opportunities given to him and does a nice job of pressuring the passer when asked to do so.  Winovich fits in Detroit for a few reasons. First, he is not an elite athlete, and he wins through technique and fundamentals. He is sound in his approach to defending the run as he shows excellent power to stone offensive linemen in their tracks, find the ball, disengage, and make the tackle. He does an excellent job of making plays because his technical ability and functional power allow him to win his gap and that should excite Lions fans.  The Lions defense could benefit from a player like Winovich as he is a reliable run defender and a player that understands his gap assignment and can handle it. He does not ooze rare athleticism and wins in the way Patricia wants his players to win. That said, he does have enough movement skills to harass quarterbacks and would be a very welcome addition to the Lions defensive line.) (10-13-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/10/13/4-prospects-for-lions-fans-to-watch-in-cfb-week-7/

Lions draft watch: 5 prospects for Week 7 (Chase Winovich, DE, Michigan (No. 15 Wisconsin at No. 12 Michigan, 7:30 p.m., ABC):  Rashan Gary carries the pedigree that will almost certainly have him coming off the board first, but Winovich's stock is on the rise given the level he's performed at this season.  With a relentless motor, Winovich has already managed to rack up 9.5 tackles for loss in 2018, a year after tallying 19 in that column. It's a stretch to believe he'll become anything more than an average pass rusher as a pro, but he should provide enough juice in that department to complement his solid run-stopping ability from the edge.) (10-12-18):   https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/10/12/detroit-lions-2019-nfl-draft-watch-5-prospects-watch-week-7/1613981002/

NFL Prospect Matchups: Wisconsin vs. Michigan (As opponents have shifted blocking schemes towards Gary, teammate Chase Winovich has picked up the slack.  Entering the season with late-round draft grades, Winovich has improved to the middle rounds with his play, totaling 10.5 tackles for loss and three sacks at the midway point of the campaign.) (10-12-18): http://draftanalyst.com/nfl-prospect-matchups-wisconsin-vs-michigan

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (19. Winovich:  Taking on Maryland, Winovich had two tackles. He was excellent against Nebraska, helping Michigan to blow out the Cornhuskers. He finished with four tackles, 1.5 sacks and two tackles for a loss. In 2018, Winovich has 34 tackles with 10.5 for a loss, three sacks and a pass batted.) (10-10-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

The 5 top-graded defensive players from every Power-5 conference (5. Chase Winovich, Edge, Michigan (2018 season grade: 85.0):  Winovich has been unblockable this season. On 142 pass-rushing snaps, he has recorded the conference’s best 28 QB pressures.) (10-5-18):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-top-5-defensive-players-power-5

Michigan's Winovich working to be a 'shark in a game of guppies' (10-5-18):   https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/university-michigan/2018/10/04/michigans-chase-winovich-working-shark-game-guppies/1521550002/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (19.  Chase Winovich, LB, Michigan. (Previously: 21 Avg. 26.4 per 5): Taking on Northwestern, Winovich notched a bunch of tackles in run support, including three for a loss and .5 sacks. He was excellent against Nebraska, helping Michigan to blow out the Cornhuskers. He finished with four tackles, 1.5 sacks and two tackles for a loss. In 2018, Winovich has 32 tackles with 10.5 for a loss, three sacks and a pass batted.) (10-3-18):   http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Michigan's Chase Winovich named Big Ten co-defensive player of the week (10-1-18):  https://www.mlive.com/wolverines/index.ssf/2018/10/michigans_chase_winovich_named_1.html

Michigan football DE Chase Winovich on near record-setting pace (10-1-18):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/university-michigan/wolverines/2018/10/01/michigan-football-chase-winovich/1490643002/

2019 NFL Draft Big Board (25. Chase Winovich, LB, Michigan. (Previously: 33 Avg. 30.7 per 3):  In 2018, Winovich has 19 tackles with 5.5 for a loss, .5 sacks and a pass batted. He dominated Notre Dame to open the season. All night, Winovich showed serious speed off the edge with the athleticism to dip underneath blockers and the strength to fight off the hands of blockers.  Winovich is able to use his hands and feet at the same time while seeing the field well. With his non-stop motor, Winovich pursues plays all over the field. His physical look and style of play resembles Packers linebacker Clay Matthews.  Winovich (6-2, 258) is a gritty defender who was always around the ball for the Wolverines in 2017. He had an excellent season, totaling 79 tackles with 18 tackles for a loss, eight sacks and two forced fumbles. He had five sacks in the previous season. Given his length and weight issues, Winovich might be better off moving to 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL.) (9-19-18):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Walterfootball Big Board (33.  Chase Winovich, LB, Michigan (Previously: 34 Avg. 34 per 2)) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

2019 NFL Draft Stock (up - Chase Winovich, LB, Michigan
The dynamic outside linebacker Winovich absolutely dominated Notre Dame's offensive tackles and was constantly hitting or pressuring the quarterback. Winovich produced a number of splash plays that kept Michigan in the game. Just before halftime, Winovich used power to shed the right tackle and then chased down Fighting Irish quarterback Brandon Wimbush for a sack with a hard hit to the midsection. In the third quarter, Winovich laid a hit on Wimbush as he threw, and that helped produce a floating pass that was intercepted by Michigan. In the fourth quarter, Winovich came off the edge unblocked and snuffed out a draw for a loss of five. Winovich totaled 3.5 tackles for a loss, one sack and six tackles in a superb performance. All night, Winovich showed serious speed off the edge with the athleticism to dip underneath blockers and the strength to fight off the hands of blockers. Winovich is able to use his hands and feet at the same time while seeing the field well. With his non-stop motor, Winovich pursues plays all over the field. His physical look and style of play resembles Packers linebacker Clay Matthews. This tape will definitely help Winovich in his draft grade) (9-5-18):http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_01.php

PFF NCAA Week 1 – Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER - Chase Winovich, Michigan (Week 1 grade: 83.0):  It may have been in a losing cause, but no one is blaming that defeat on Winovich. He was outstanding with eight pressures on Notre Dame’s Brandon Wimbush, rotating across edge positions and giving both Fighting Irish tackles fits.) (9-2-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-1-team-of-the-week

20 PFF College stats to know from Week 1 (Chase Winovich, Edge, Michigan: Picked up a sack, three QB hits and four hurries on only 20 pass-rushing snaps against Notre Dame.) (9-2-18):https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-20-pff-stats-to-know-from-week-1

2019 NFL Draft: Michigan's youthful defense is oozing with NFL talent (Chase Winovich, EDGE:  Winovich is an all-effort edge-rusher who leans on his relentless motor to make an impact near or behind the line of scrimmage. He's noticeably limited athletically, but that shortcoming hasn't really hampered his play at the collegiate level, although it could hold him back at the NFL level, and will almost assuredly be the main knock on his resume as a prospect next draft season. Winovich had 73 tackles, 19.0 tackles for loss and eight sacks in 2017. He sets a very strong edge, always fights hard to work through blocks, flashed an effective swipe move, and never believes he's out of the play.  His bull rush has been hit or miss thus far in his career with the Wolverines. With more strength, that move could be a go-to for him because his legs never stop churning. On the same line as Gary, Winovich will likely have a big statistical season on a loaded Michigan defense and land somewhere on Day Two of the 2019 Draft.) (8-7-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-michigans-youthful-defense-is-oozing-with-nfl-talent/

2018 college football season: Top 13 linebackers to watch (11.  Somebody:  Many Michigan fans expected Winovich to hit my defensive line list, but scouts I've spoken with believe that he will end up transitioning into a role at 3-4 outside linebacker in the pros. Winovich is labeled as a "try-hard" player by scouts, and that is certainly an accurate description of his playing style, but he's also skilled with his hands. He has a deft feel for working around blockers in an efficient manner. He has decent get-off as a rusher and does a good job of getting early shoulder turn so tackles can't move him up and around the rush arc. His 19 tackles for loss last season (8.5 sacks) are indicative of his desire to make impact plays behind the line of scrimmage.) (7-20-18):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000941211/article/2018-college-football-season-top-13-linebackers-to-watch

NFL Draft Defender Ranks (9. Winovich:  The 6-foot-3, 245-pound Chase Winovich, a colorful personality who was one of the stars of the Amazon series about the Michigan program, went off for 18 TFL last year. The Wolverines were lucky to get him back after Winovich briefly considered entering the 2018 NFL Draft. Winovich may be the Big 10’s best defense end this side of Nick Bosa.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks

18 for '18: Defensive prospects who will be NFL stars (15.  Winovich:  Winovich teamed with Rashan Gary to form one of the nastiest defensive end combinations in college football last season, though at 245 pounds, he'll likely have to move off the ball at the next level. He shows a knack for penetration, whether playing off the left edge or the right (he and Gary switch back and forth based on offensive formation). The fifth-year senior piled up 18 tackles for loss last season, the second-highest total in the Big Ten, and will be a key cog in one of the nation's top defenses this fall. Winovich has an outspoken, bold personality to go with a level of performance that speaks for itself. He's come a long way since 2015, when he was a reserve tight end who contributed little more than special-teams help.) (5-22-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000933757/article/18-for-18-defensive-prospects-who-will-be-nfl-stars






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