Scouting Reports:
ND Profile: https://und.com/roster/julian-okwara/
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/julian-okwara?id=32194f4b-5702-9663-85a0-2051a10bc13c
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/julian-okwara/oNLsGzW59B
Draftwire: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/20/2020-nfl-draft-julian-okwara-scouting-report/
PFN Tony Pauline: https://www.profootballnetwork.com/notre-dame-julian-okwara-scouting-report-2020-nfl-draft-2/
Julian Okwara, Notre Dame DE: 2020 NFL Draft profile: https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2020/03/julian-okwara-notre-dame-de-2020-nfl-draft-profile.html
Rankings:
Overall:
2020 NFL Draft: Final PFF Top 250 Big Board (28. Okwara: Okwara is slightly built, but don't let that fool you. He converts speed to power as well as any edge in this class and will only get deadlier as he fills out his frame. 3-4 teams will be high on Okwara's skillset): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-final-pff-top-250-big-board
FTW (28. Okwara: Okwara is far from a finished product, but that can be said of a lot of the prospects in the year’s class of pass rushers. He is, however, built like an NFL pass rusher and his athleticism should allow him to be a productive player from the time he steps on an NFL field. Teams may be scared off after a leg injury prevented Okwara from participating in Combine drills but it’s evident on tape this dude has special tools. He’s not a versatile pass rusher, lining up almost exclusively on the edge for the Irish, but he does have the ability to drop into coverage if need be. If a team can get him interested in stopping the run, Okwara could be a star. NFL comparison: Yannick Ngakoue ): https://ftw.usatoday.com/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-50-prospects
Justin Rogers' Detroit Lions 2020 NFL Draft Big Board (31. Okwara: The brother of Lions edge rusher Romeo, Julian figures to come at a discount in this draft after suffering a broken leg last season. Prior to the injury, he was producing at an impressive clip rushing the passer, generating pressure once every 6.3 snaps. He’s built up impressive upper body strength while on the mend, throwing up the bar 27 times at the combine, but he’ll need to match the effort with his lower body if he wants to be a quality run defender like Romeo.): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/20/justin-rogers-detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-big-board/5167613002/
THOR 500: NYSTROM'S BIG BOARD (50. Okwara): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/thor-500-nystroms-big-board-0
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (50. Okwara): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
Draft rankings: Chris Trapasso Top 250 Big Board (54. Okwara): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-final-top-250-big-board-with-21-receivers-in-the-top-100/
SI Top 255 Big Board 3.0 (54. Okwara): https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/19/draft-big-board-updated-top-255-prospects
Yahoo (56. Okwara): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-draft-utah-rb-zack-moss-has-firstround-talent-but-major-injury-concerns-220751888.html
Draft rankings: Ryan Wilson Top 250 (59. Okwara): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-two-receivers-crack-top-10-two-running-backs-in-top-25-and-entire-top-250/
ESPN Jeff Legwold (60. Okwara: Okwara had surgery to repair a fractured left fibula in November and missed the final four games. He's more of a height-weight-speed prospect, but 30% of his tackles went for negative yardage at Notre Dame. With some work, his speed and pursuit skills could make him an impact rusher.): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29017869/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-top-100-prospects
2020 NFL Draft prospect rankings: Josh Edwards Top 250 big board ends as it started, with Chase Young on top (63. Okwara): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-250-big-board-ends-as-it-started-with-chase-young-on-top/
Top 103 Prospects For The 2020 NFL Draft (63. DE Okwara.): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3254/Top-103-Prospects-For-The-2020-NFL-Draft
ESPN (64. Okwara: Okwara is a tall, long and athletic hybrid EDGE prospect. He has the get off, bend and closing burst to win with speed off the edge. He flashes an outside-in move but needs to develop better counterpunches and improve his ability to win with speed-to-power. Okwara is a rangy run defender, but he has a lean lower body and gives too much ground. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
2020 NFL Draft Big Board: The Draft Wire 300 (66. Okwara): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/17/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-big-board-top-300/
Norris: Top 150 NFL Draft Board (69. DE Julian Okwara): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/norris-top-150-nfl-draft-board
WINKS' TOP 100 NFL DRAFT PROSPECTS (75. Okwara: Once again, I’m not going to waste your time here. Okudah (6’1/205) allowed 5.2 yards per target as a 20-year-old at Ohio State locked down Tee Higgins in the College Football Playoff, and showed 96th percentile Adjusted SPARQ athleticism with 4.48 speed and a 41-inch vertical at the NFL Combine. Okudah could be a Pro Bowler as a rookie and an All-Pro within a few seasons. He’s an elite corner prospect.): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/winks-top-100-nfl-draft-prospects
Draft Tek (76. Okwara): https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Draft-Big-Board/Top-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2020-Page-1.asp
Hot 150: Gil Brandt's top-ranked prospects for 2020 NFL Draft (78. Okwara): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001109120/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-topranked-prospects-for-2020-nfl-draft
Draft Countdown (78. Okwara): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-top-overall-rankings/
Walter football (79. Okwara): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
SN Top 100 (95. Okwara: Jackson is a unique prospect because he is a pure pass-protecting interior blocker. He has the frame and strength to develop in the running game.): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-2020-big-board-top-players-rankings/1fl3kppyra1bv10c1ghe8bfylh
DJ's final prospect rankings: Who made top 150? (110. Okwara): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001110012/article/daniel-jeremiahs-top-150-prospects-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-class
Rotoworld Analytics Rankings (168. Okwara): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=3
Position:
PFF (4. DE Okwara: Okwara is a certified freak athlete who looks as comfortable in coverage as he does rushing the passer. The Notre Dame edge defender may be undersized, but that didn't stop him from being one of the best bull-rushers in the country. He converts speed to power about as well as anyone in this draft class, as he's very flexible for a 6-foot-5 edge defender. It all led to a 90.4 pass-rushing grade before his year was cut short with injury. The worrisome thing is that he only had three total pressures on 43 pass-rushing snaps against Mekhi Becton and Andrew Thomas this season. He was also fairly hot and cold this past year, with two or fewer pressures in five of the nine games he played in last year. Okwara usually needs a head of steam to work his moves and could be seen as a designated pass-rusher only at the next level.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-cornerbacks
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (5. DE Okudah): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
Thor's DE Rankings (6. DE Okwara (Comp: Lance Johnstone (Zierlein)): Okwara lived in Nigeria until he was eight before moving to the United States. He came to Notre Dame as a somewhat under-the-radar four-star recruit from the Charlotte prep ranks. After working in a backup rotational role his first two years on campus, Okwara leveled up for 12.5 TFL, eight sacks and 21 hurries while starting 12-of-13 games in 2018. He would manage just nine games played in 2019 before a broken leg sustained against Duke ended his collegiate career. Okwara moves off the snap like he spent the previous minute plugged into a high-voltage charger. He bolts out with big strides, getting on blockers in an instant and hitting with the strength of a concussion grenade. Okwara is a sublime athlete, but not a finesse one. He loves to break through people rather than go around them, using his length and those power mitts to bully his way into the backfield. Okwara would have starred at the combine had he been healthy. There’s no questioning his physical ability. It’s on display in everything he does, in the way he can snap back and reset when he’s thrown off, the way he pursues the ball and the way that his speed converts to pure punch at the point of contact. Okwara recorded a pass-rush win rate of 23% during his injury-shortened 2019 season, per PFF. That mark was better than those of Yetur Gross-Matos, Curtis Weaver and A.J. Epenesa. That he’s already so effective, so terrifying as a pass-rusher is made all the more impressive by the fact that Okwara needs considerable polish if he is to reach what is a very high ceiling. As good as Okwara is charging forward, his game currently lacks nuance. When his initial plan is foiled, lacking plausible counters, he generally gets twisted into a wasted rep. And sometimes his natural athleticism is staggered by degrees on the move, when he guesses wrong and has to change his framework all at once. Imagining him with the jagged edges smoothed should keep offensive coordinators up at night. The brother of Lions DE Romeo Okwara, Julian gets overlooked a bit because of his thin build, the broken leg, and the raw elements of his game. But boy is he an athlete, top-10 on Bruce Feldman’s last Freak’s list, with 21 mph tracked speed. And boy is he disruptive. Going back to 2018, per PFF, Okwara had the highest pressure rate of any player in this class at 19.1%. He’s being undervalued.): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/thors-edge-rankings
Touchdown Wire's Position Rankings (7. DE Okwara): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/13/scouting-breakdown-the-11-best-edge-rushers-in-the-nfl-draft/7/
Draft Tek (7. DE Okwara): https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Draft-Position-Rankings/Top-College-Defensive-Ends-2020-NFL-Draft.asp
CBS (8. DE Okwara): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/edge/
Draftwire DE Rankings (9. DE Okwara): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-edge-chase-young-klavon-chaisson-a-j-epenesa/
Rotoworld Analytics Position Rankings (21. DE Okwara): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=1
ESPN (6. LB Okwara): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
Walterfootball Position Rankings (7. LB Okwara: 4/22/20: Okwara was a dangerous edge rusher for Notre Dame, collecting four sacks, 18 tackles and two forced fumbles in 2019. He was ineffective overall when going against Georgia left tackle Andrew Thomas. 6/29/19: Okwara is an edge defender who Notre Dame lists on the defensive line, but NFL teams have him down as an outside linebacker for the next level on their preseason watch list. In 2018, Okwara was a dangerous pass-rusher and good edge defender, totaling 37 tackles with 11.5 for a loss and seven sacks. It was a big improvement over 2017, when he had 2.5 sacks and 17 tackles. It will be interesting to see if Okwara gains weight to become a defensive end or stays lighter and fits as a linebacker.): https://walterfootball.com/draft2020OLB.php
Draft Countdown (8. LB Okwara): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-outside-linebacker-rankings/
Articles:
Five draft prospects who could go earlier than you think (Julian Okwara, Edge, Notre Dame: The younger brother of Lions defensive end Romeo Okwara has all the physical tools and recorded 12 sacks over the past two seasons, despite missing the last four games of his senior year with a broken fibula. Okwara's calendar has been booked up with video interviews as teams try to answer their main question: How committed is he to reaching his immense potential on a daily basis? "I already counted him to be a clear 1," an NFC personnel director said. "He's a bright kid and he's got other interests. But I think athletically, he can run and bend like no one else coming off the corner." Another exec compared him to Vikings Pro Bowl linebacker Anthony Barr in terms of being able to rush the passer and drop into coverage. Okwara (6-4, 252) did not work out at the combine, but the physical ability isn't in much doubt. "You just question his wiring," another NFC exec said. "I would say he's a lesser version of (Penn State edge Yetur) Gross-Matos in that they're both athletes and neither one of them play through people. Work the edges, finesse, use their length. How much dog do either one of them have in them?") (4-21-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001110154/article/2020-nfl-draft-five-players-who-could-be-firstround-surprises
Notre Dame's Julian Okwara, brother of former Giant Romeo Okwara, has tantalizing pass rush ceiling (4-17-20): https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/ny-julian-okwara-nfl-draft-preview-20200417-gy6v5xfqsnfh3pkoylzs7n7k3u-story.html
2020 NFL Draft: PFF's All Trump Card Team (EDGE – NOTRE DAME – JULIAN OKWARA (LONG-ARM): Between his springy get-off that saw him make Bruce Feldman’s freaks list last offseason and his 34 ⅜-inch arms, Okwara was tailor-made to bull-rush at the NFL level. The encouraging thing is we’ve already seen him do it consistently on tape at Notre Dame even against some of the top tackles in the country.) (4-15-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-pffs-all-trump-card-team
2020 NFL Draft: 10 prospects who won't get picked high enough (EDGE JULIAN OKWARA, NOTRE DAME: Okwara’s draft stock took a massive hit because of his fibula injury from Week 11 this past year. Throw in the fact that he had his worst performance of the season in Notre Dame’s biggest game of the year against Georgia in Week 4, and people are ready to write him off as a late second-round pick at best. Not so fast. Okwara has the athleticism, length and, most importantly, the production needed to thrive at the next level. Over the past two seasons, Okwara has produced a PFF pass-rushing grade that is the seventh best in the country and a pressure rate that ranks first (19.1%). Okwara is right behind Weaver at the tail-end of the first-round on PFF’s big board.) (4-10-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-2020-nfl-draft-10-prospects-who-wont-get-picked-high-enough
2020 NFL Draft: Perfect landing spots for the top 10 edge defenders (4. JULIAN OKWARA — TENNESSEE TITANS (PFF Big Board Rank: 23): Like Weaver, Okwara is an edge rusher PFF is higher on than most. And, again, it comes back to production. Okwara was highly productive across his last two seasons with the Fighting Irish, putting up pass-rushing grades of 86.5 in 2018 and 90.4 last season. He recorded pass-rush win rates of at least 23% both seasons, as well. That level of production, combined with his athleticism and length, makes him intriguing at the NFL level. He may be undersized, but Okwara is still able to bring power with the bull-rush, one of his go-to moves. He further highlighted that strength with 27 reps on the bench at the combine despite having 34 3/8-inch arms. On the other side, the Titans need to add some juice to their pass-rush. The only Titans edge rusher to record a pressure rate of at least 10% last season was Cameron Wake, who was released by the team earlier this offseason. They might have added Vic Beasley Jr. to start across from Harold Landry III, but Tennessee shouldn’t be happy with stopping there, given Beasley’s inconsistent play throughout his career. Okwara has shown the ability at Notre Dame to consistently pressure the quarterback out of a two-point stance, making him a natural fit on the Titans defense. He may be limited to a pass-rushing-specialist role early in his career, but there is no reason why he can’t have an impact in that role for Tennessee as he continues to develop.) (4-8-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-perfect-landing-spots-for-the-top-10-edge-defenders
2020 NFL Draft: FBS Independent Schools Scouting Reports (Julian Okwara, DE: Positives: Athletic pass rusher who can line up in a three-point stance or stand over tackle. Rarely off his feet, breaks down well and uses his hands to protect himself. Fluid when asked to twist or stunt, easily changes direction and plays with balance. Gets depth on pass drops, covers a lot of area on the field and bends off the edge. Keeps his feet moving and wraps up tackling. Negatives: Does not show great instincts or ball awareness. Possesses a thin build. Slow to get back to balance off the initial block. Occasionally late with his hands and must develop more moves. Analysis: Okwara flashed dominance throughout his college career and is a versatile defender who can play in a multitude of schemes. He needs to polish his techniques and line up in a system that does not ask him to read and react, but Okwara will be a productive three-down defender at the next level if properly coached.) (4-3-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/fbs-independent-schools-scouting-reports-2020-nfl-draft/
Don't let injuries scare you away from these 2020 NFL Draft prospects (EDGE JULIAN OKWARA, NOTRE DAME (PFF Big Board rank: 23): Julian Okwara suffered a gruesome fractured fibula in Week 11 of this past season. Up until that point, Okwara was playing at an elite level as a pass-rusher in 2019 by owning a 90.4 PFF pass-rush grade that ranked 12th among FBS edge rushers. It isn’t like Okwara was an unproven player prior to his 2019 — he was a near-elite pass-rusher in 2018, and when combining the last two years, he’s among the best to take the field in college football. Okwara’s two-year pass-rush grade ranks eighth among qualifying edge defenders, his 22.9% win rate is third and his 19.1% pressure rate is first by nearly a full percentage point (yes, even higher than Chase Young). He has to work on his tackling — he missed nearly a third of his total tackling attempts in 2019 — but it’s something we can live with given his proven dominance as a pass-rusher. Okwara’s athletic makeup and explosiveness off the line is exactly what you want in an edge rusher. Not to mention, his bend is filthy. His injury will likely cause him to fall out of the first round, but we still firmly believe Okwara is a player to look at in the tail end of the first round.) (4-1-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-dont-let-injuries-scare-away-from-these-2020-nfl-draft-prospects
If Lions go for Jeff Okudah, here are 10 second-round options that make sense (Julian Okwara, Edge, Notre Dame: Detroit's pass rush has been abysmal the past two seasons. Outside of Flowers, they haven't had a player consistently capable of winning one-on-one matchups on the edge. Assuming the team misses out on Young at the top of the draft, they could go fishing for value on Day 2. Okwara was trending toward being a first-round selection prior to breaking his leg in the middle of last season. He's still working his way back from that, but he should be fully ready by the start of his rookie season. Before the injury, he had 32 pressures on 202 snaps. He then showed up at the combine and put up an impressive 27 reps on the bench, despite having longer arms. That length and work ethic round out a solid resume.) (3-31-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/03/31/if-detroit-lions-go-jeff-okudah-here-10-second-round-options-make-sense/5087218002/
2020 Draft: 5 groups of edge rushers (Greenard has first-round highs. They just need to happen more often. At 6-3 and a rocked-up 263 pounds with the ability to tightly wrap the corner, the Florida product looks the part. With more active hands, he could be one of the best value picks on Day 2. Okwara is similar in that his play can be stupidly dominant. He's strong with long arms and looks decently flexible. In my notes I wrote his pass-rushing moves as "adequate.") (3-30-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-examining-chase-young-klavon-chaisson-and-rest-of-the-edge-rusher-class-by-type/
2020 NFL draft: Julian Okwara scouting report (3-20-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/20/2020-nfl-draft-julian-okwara-scouting-report/
2020 NFL draft: Utah RB Zack Moss has first-round talent but major injury concerns (56. Notre Dame EDGE Julian Okwara
(6-foot-4, 252 pounds): Yahoo Sports draft grade: 5.88. The lowdown: Okwara’s final season came to a disappointing end when he suffered a broken left fibula in November, and he wasn’t able to perform at the Senior Bowl or combine (other than the bench press) because of the injury. Before getting hurt, Okwara flashed first-round athletic traits. He reportedly ran a 4.53 40-yard dash at Notre Dame’s Junior Day in 2019, reportedly was clocked at 21 mph during the 2018 season and put up 27 reps on the bench in Indy — a shocking total for a man with 34 3/8-inch arms. Although his pass-rush production was limited in terms of sacks (outside of a few big games), Okwara supplied consistent pressure for the Irish. He has an outstanding get-off, can bend the edge with ease and can close in a hurry. He’d be well-served to clean up his pass-rush arsenal a bit, but Okwara has the kind of moldable traits that absolutely project to the next level — either as a stand-up rush end or a 3-4 outside linebacker. Okwara has made some freaky plays in college, such as a tipped-pass INT against North Carolina, an incredible sideline INT against Michigan (turning and dropping 15 yards in coverage) and a wild strip sack against Virginia. You’d love to have seen that translate to more consistent sack production, but his 40 hurries on 314 pass-rush snaps in 2018 and his 23 hurries on 202 pass-rush snaps in 2019 (per PFF) show how he impacts games. The element of his game that needs work is against the run. Okwara appeared frustrated in games where opponents pounded the rock (see Navy in 2018, Louisville and Michigan in 2019) and limited his pass-rush opportunities. Okwara looks occasionally helpless stacking and shedding blockers in the run game and missed a slew of tackles the past few years. Still, this is a pass-rushing league and Okwara brings that juice. He feasted on USC’s Austin Jackson, terrorized Virginia in a dominant performance last season and has enough upside to make him an early-impact defender in passing situations. By the numbers: Okwara finished his 35-game college career with 15.5 sacks and four forced fumbles, with 5.5 of those sacks and three of those FFs coming in two games — 2018 at Northwestern and 2019 vs. Virginia. Interesting fact: His older brother, Romeo Okwara, plays for the Detroit Lions. Julian was 8 and Romeo was 10 when they moved with their family from Nigeria. Draft range: Assuming his leg injury won’t hurt his draft stock too much, we feel Okwara should be a second-round pick. National Football Scouting gave him a first-round grade entering the season, and we suspect he would have landed there with a healthy final season.) (3-13-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-draft-utah-rb-zack-moss-has-firstround-talent-but-major-injury-concerns-220751888.html
PFF's Mike Renner Discusses Day 2 Options for Detroit Lions ("Look at Romeo Okwara's brother, Julian. He is a Day two type of pass-rusher. He is much more athletic than his brother. He is a perfect sort of Patricia scheme edge rusher," Renner said. Renner added, "(Okwara) can drop into coverage, can rush the passer, can do a lot of different things athletically. They tend to like those guys off the edge -- Belichick disciples. I do think Okwara could be a good fit." Many draft experts have expressed that Okwara has all the physical tools you look for in a pass rusher.) (3-5-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/-mike-renner-pff-discusses-day-two-options-for-lions-2020-nfl-draft
2020 NFL Draft: Prospects PFF likes more than other scouts and media (EDGE Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: If it weren’t for his season-ending fibula injury suffered in Week 11, Julian Okwara likely wouldn't be undervalued. Sure, the injury is a red flag, but when healthy Okwara proved to be one of the top edge defenders in the country. Over the last two seasons, he has produced a 19.1% pressure rate, which leads the FBS by nearly a full percentage point. We aren’t going to let him slide with his tackling, though. This is an area he must improve — he missed nearly a third of his total talking attempts in 2019. Okwara’s athletic makeup and explosiveness off the line is exactly what you want from your edge rusher. Not to mention, his bend is filthy.) (3-4-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-pff-likes-more-than-other-scouts-and-media
TIM AND MIKE: Combine Day 3 observations (Brotherly love: Notre Dame defensive end Julian Okwara is trying to follow in the footsteps of his older brother, Lions defensive end Romeo Okwara, and make it to the NFL. The younger Okwara was asked Thursday what it would be like if he found himself in Detroit playing alongside Romeo. "I told him I'd move in with him on the couch. He's going to have to pay the rent and I'm not splitting it, either," Julian said. "He's going to have to take care of everything. That's what older brothers do, they take care of the younger brother." – Tim Twentyman) (2-27-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/tim-and-mike-combine-day-3-observations-okudah-kinlaw
2020 NFL Scouting Combine: Notable quotes and analysis from Day 3 (“A lot of guys wonder where my strength comes from. I think us Nigerians have some extra muscles that some other people don't have” – Julian Okwara on his strength. Despite his undersized frame, Okwara is able to generate legitimate power with his bull-rush, which is one of his more frequently used pass-rushing moves. The use of that move has helped him record a pass-rushing grade of 85.0 or higher in both 2018 and 2019.) (2-27-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-scouting-combine-notable-quotes-and-analysis-from-day-3
Julian Okwara ready for rent-free perks if Detroit Lions pair him with older brother Romeo (2-27-20): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/02/julian-okwara-ready-for-rent-free-perks-if-detroit-lions-pair-him-with-older-brother-romeo.html
Edge defenders to target in free agency and the 2020 NFL Draft (The undervalued - Julian Okwara: Okwara has two straight seasons of high-level tape on his resume after notching pass-rushing grades of 87.5 and 90.4 in 2018 and 2019, respectively. He also boasted pass-rush win rates of 20% or higher in both of those seasons. Okwara is a bit undersized, which might lead to him being used as more of a designated pass-rusher, but he has shown the athleticism and the ability to win consistently in that role. Coming in at 23rd overall on the PFF Big Board, we value him more than the consensus heading into the draft. He could end up providing some value to a team based on where he ends up falling.) (2-27-20): https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-edge-defenders-free-agency-2020-nfl-draft
Lions 2020 Combine Preview: EDGE Rusher (Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Okwara is the younger brother of Lions defensive end, Romeo Okwara. Julian doesn't have the same size as Romeo and has a little bit different play style as well. At this point, Julian is a raw prospect and could use some refinement to become more consistent when rushing the quarterback. While Romeo is a solid defender against the run in Detroit, Julian has struggled in that department -- likely moving him down the Lions' board. Some team will likely take a chance on Okwara early on Day 2 due to his pass-rushing potential.) (2-24-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rusher
Who and what to watch at the 2020 NFL Combine: EDGE rushers (Julian Okwara, Notre Dame (Suggested by: Max Gerber, Scott Warheit and Ty Finch): Big things were expected from the brother of Lions EDGE rusher Romeo Okwara in 2019, but Julian had an underwhelming season that was cut short due to a broken leg, leaving a sour taste in the mouths of evaluators. Like his big brother, Julian is long, fast, quick, and athletic. Julian is expected to check-in under 250-pounds, and while he has the frame to add more weight, right now it negatively impacts his ability to set the edge. The lighter weight does allow him to drop into coverage, so depending on the team that selects him, he may need to maintain or gain weight. For the Lions, he would assuredly be a backup in year one with the upside to see significant snaps or start in year two.) (2-23-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/02/23/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rushers/
2020 NFL Draft edge rusher rankings: Chase Young in a class by himself, but there could be many early picks (Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Okwara could stand up at the next level because he does look accustomed to dropping in coverage. He is a lean looking player who flashes a lot of pass rush tools but he needs to put it all together to realize his potential. The emphasis for him should be developing some counter moves and working to get off blocks.) (2-17-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-edge-rusher-rankings-chase-young-in-a-class-by-himself-but-there-could-be-many-early-picks/
2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (5. Julian Okwara, Notre Dame 6-4, 248 (2) - Why He’s Here On The List: Pass rushers with his ability and game-changing skills are rare. Forget about him against the run – anything he can do against the power teams are going to be gravy – but when he’s closing on a quarterback or a play, it’s over. What The NFL Types Want To See: Is his leg okay? He wasn’t having an amazing year before suffering a broken leg, but he was explosive at times. His draft stock is totally and completely going to be based on his potential to get into the backfield, but he has to be healthy. Bottom Line: He’s not going to be for everyone. There will be problems against the tougher running teams, and he’s not quite big enough to be a true end. When he was on – he took over the Virginia game by himself – he showed off the upside to be a devastating NFL playmaker. He might be a one-trick guy, but it’s an amazing trick.) (2-11-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-defensive-end-edge-rusher-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
2020 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Edge Defenders (4. JULIAN OKWARA, NOTRE DAME (Draft Board Rank: 22nd): Okwara is a certified freak athlete who looks as comfortable in coverage as he does rushing the passer. The Notre Dame edge defender may be undersized, but that didn't stop him from being one of the best bull-rushers in the country. He converts speed to power about as well as anyone in this draft class, as he's very flexible for a 6-foot-5 edge defender. It all led to a 90.4 pass-rushing grade before his year was cut short with injury. The worrisome thing is that he only had three total pressures on 43 pass-rushing snaps against Mekhi Becton and Andrew Thomas this season. He was also fairly hot and cold this past year, with two or fewer pressures in five of the nine games he played in last year. Okwara usually needs a head of steam to work his moves and could be seen as a designated pass-rusher only at the next level.) (2-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-edge-defenders
Meet Julian Okwara, Notre Dame's dominant pass-rushing prospect (1-22-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/01/22/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-julian-okwara-notre-dame-interview/
2020 Top Edge NFL Prospects: Don’t sleep on Chaisson (Julian Okwara, Notre Dame Fighting Irish (6’4″, 248 pounds): The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have a pair of dynamic defensive ends, and both will hear their names called in the 2020 NFL Draft. First, we take a look at the long and bendy weak-side defensive end, Julian Okwara. In 2019, Okwara’s production was underwhelming, accounting for only four sacks and two forced fumbles. Okwara possesses a lethal first step, strong punch, and dynamic ability to flatten around the corner. With Okwara, there are some warts, which include his struggles against the run. He also needs to get stronger and work on consistency when it comes to his technique. With that said, there are a lot of traits to work with here, and scouts will fall in love with the upside he presents. One of Okwara’s specialties is his strip-sack, which you can see in the clip below. Like, he is really good at the strip-sack. He does it again in the video below, but pay attention to his speed off the edge and his ability to bend. Okwara is a day-two pick, and he should contribute at the next level immediately. His length and explosion are what will catch the eyes of NFL front offices.) (1-1-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-top-edge-nfl-prospects-dont-sleep-on-chaisson/
Cardinals 2020 draft needs, fits, picks (Julian Okwara, EDGE, Notre Dame: Okwara is a really quick player around the edge but he needs to develop more of a counter move when his initial rush is stoned. The North Carolina native does a great job of honing in on the football when he gets into the backfield. One of the biggest areas of development from last season to 2019 has been his comfort in coverage and awareness to set the edge. There are not many veterans that would be a better teacher than Jones. ) (12-29-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-arizona-cardinals-team-needs-draft-picks-prospects-to-watch/
Prospects to watch in Camping World Bowl (Julian Okwara, EDGE: Okwara is a high upside prospect. He has great speed and determination. The North Carolina native looks fluid in coverage and has done a much better job setting the edge in the run game this season. While the speed rush is his bread and butter, Okwara will need to develop and refine his other pass rush moves in order to reach his potential. Currently, when his initial rush is stopped, he does not have a strong counter move to pull out of his saddlebag. Most NFL talent evaluators will likely view him as a Day 2 selection but it would not be a surprise if he were taken higher based on his potential. ) (12-23-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/camping-world-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-notre-dame-vs-iowa-state/
2020 NFL Draft: Top-five players at each defensive position entering College Football Week 14 (4. Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Okwara suffered a leg injury earlier this year in Notre Dame’s win over Duke that’s already ended his season. Okwara ran a little hot and cold this year with three or more pressures in only four of the nine games he played in. He’s the most gifted athlete in the class after Chase Young, though, and he is already a proficient bull-rusher despite his size.) (11-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-top-five-players-at-each-defensive-position-entering-college-football-week-14
5 linebackers who could make sense for Detroit Lions’ defense in 2020 NFL Draft (Notre Dame DE/EDGE Julian Okwara -- Recognize that last name? Julian Okwara’s older brother is current Lions defensive lineman Romeo Okwara. Even without an inside source of information, Julian Okwara is an intriguing edge rusher prospect for a team in Detroit struggling to generate consistent pressure. The Notre Dame edge defender projects as an outside linebacker/edge specialist at the next level. The 6-foot-4, 248-pound senior had racked up four sacks and two forced fumbles this season before a season-ending leg injury last weekend. The younger Okwara registered eight sacks last season, and his draft stock will most likely fall due to his injury and corresponding surgery. “Okwara is the perfect blend of pocket-collapsing ability and coverage prowess for the Lions’ defense,” PFF wrote back in mid-October. “He’s one of the best bull-rushers in the country despite being only 240 pounds and has earned a 91.0 pass-rushing grade on the season so far.”) (11-15-19): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/11/5-linebackers-who-could-make-sense-with-detroit-lions-defense-in-2020-nfl-draft.html
NFL draft notes: If Dolphins miss on Tua or Burrow, there's a fascinating alternative (One pass rusher whose draft stock might have taken a hit this weekend was Notre Dame’s Julian Okwara. His season is now over after a broken fibula, and the timetable of the injury will complicate his draft evaluation. The 6-5, 245-pound rusher has had some dominant tape (check out the Virginia game) but also a few games that will leave evaluators digging even deeper. But the possibility of landing in Round 1 just went down with the injury, which also robbed Okwara of the chance of finishing the season on a high note.) (11-11-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-if-dolphins-miss-on-tua-or-burrow-theres-a-fascinating-alternative-220045709.html
Notre Dame All-American defensive end Julian Okwara, potential first-round pick out for season (11-10-19): https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/notre-dame-all-american-defensive-end-potential-first-round-pick-julian-okwara-out-for-the-season/
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: WEEK 9 (Defensive ends Julian Okwara and Khalid Kareem may be the best EDGE duo in the country. Through six games, the duo has come together for 8.5 sacks, 11 total tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles (both from Okwara). The two have made the list before, with Okwara serving as more of the high-potential speed rusher and Kareem as more of a gritty run defender with excellent hand usage in all phases of the game. Okwara and Kareem provide vastly different threats for Michigan's tackles, but both are going to feast on a frantic pocket player like Patterson. With a target like Patterson, the Notre Dame duo should be able to propel themselves above the 10-sack threshold. Getting to Patterson at least twice is well within reason, especially considering the offense only continues to spiral despite the payers theoretically having more comfort in the system two months in now. It could be a field day for the Fighting Irish front. Advantage: Okwara/Kareem) (10-23-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-week-9
2020 NFL Draft prospect Rankings: Top five players at each defensive position (3. Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Against Virginia, Okwara showed why he’s going to be a problem for slow-footed tackles at the next level. Okwara has an absurd get-off that he pairs with terrific flexibility to either bend the edge or bull-rush tackles into the quarterback's lap. We usually worry about undersized edge rushers being able to challenge with the bull-rush in the NFL, but that’s not the case with the 245-pound Okwara.) (10-3-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-five-players-at-each-defensive-position
College Football Week 5: 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Notes (STOCK UP - Edge Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: A week after facing his hardest test of the year, Okwara tore up the Virginia tackles for three sacks, a hit and four hurries on the day. His speed and bend off the edge was simply too much. We hadn’t seen Okwara rush much yet in obvious passing situations this season the way he was able to against Virginia, and it’s nice to see that dominance still intact for the number 17 overall player on our draft board.) (10-1-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-college-football-week-5-2020-nfl-draft-scouting-notes
NFL draft winners and losers: Lock Ohio State's Chase Young into top five – 'He’s better than [Nick] Bosa' (Irish pass rusher breaks out - One of my biggest complaints about Notre Dame’s talented edge rusher, Julian Okwara, has been his number of “almost” plays. Almost sacks, almost tackles for loss and so on — the 6-4, 248-pound Okwara often can be seen impacting and influencing plays but not always finishing them. On Saturday against Virginia, Okwara got home. More than once, in fact. Okwara was tremendous against the Cavaliers, throwing off the timing of their offensive dramatically with three sacks, two forced fumbles, two other QB hits, a fumble recovery and several other pressures. It was the kind of game NFL scouts were happy to see from him — and there were eight NFL teams in attendance Saturday, including two general managers, the Vikings’ Rick Spielman and Colts’ Chris Ballard. They were the first three sacks of the season for Okwara. One scout we spoke with earlier this year said Okwara could be distracted by his stated preseason goal of reaching 18.5 sacks, which would be an Irish record, for this season. Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly seemed to agree. “I love what Julian did,” Kelly said. “He got back to playing really physical football. … I think Julian would tell you the whole kind of sack thing was too much of a personal thing, and he got back to playing physical football and within the realm of the defense, and it really showed itself today. And he’s going to take off from here.” Okwara is projected as a top-50 prospect with the chance to land in the back half of Round 1. Saturday’s game could be an indication that he’s ready to break loose.) (9-30-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-winners-and-losers-you-can-lock-os-us-chase-young-into-the-top-five-174051520.html
College Football Week 5 Eckrich Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER - Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Finally, the emergence of Okwara, as the Fighting Irish got a big game from their big-name player on defense and a victory against Virginia. Okwara recorded eight total pressures on 45 pass-rushing snaps including three sacks, a QB hit and four more hurries. He forced two fumbles and was integral in the victory for Notre Dame.) (9-29-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-5-eckrich-team-of-the-week
College Football Week 4: 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Notes (TOP PROSPECT MATCHUP REPORT - Andrew Thomas vs. Julian Okwara and Khalid Kareem: Thomas had only 11 true pass sets on the day, which is a low number yet reasonably common of the Georgia offense. On them, Thomas excused himself alright. He whiffed on one inside move from Khalid Kareem and ceded ground into Jake Fromm’s lap on a two-handed bull-rush from Okwara. He also son’d Okwara, throwing him nearly to the turf when passing off a stunt. What we saw from Thomas should definitely be seen as encouraging — for a true junior as inexperienced as Thomas is to hold his own against a couple of seniors as talented as Notre Dame’s duo is no small feat. The fact that Okwara and Kareem weren’t completely shut out means this isn’t a loss for them, as both did work against right tackles Cade Mays and Isaiah Wilson. The biggest takeaway for Okwara though might be his run defense —or lack thereof — where he earned a 34.5 grade this past week.) (9-24-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-college-football-week-3-2020-nfl-draft-scouting-notes
2020 NFL draft: 5 prospect matchups to watch in Week 4 (Georgia OT Andrew Thomas vs. Notre Dame EDGE Khalid Kareem, Julian Okwara: Thomas, who is arguably the best offensive tackle in the country, will finally have his first tough test this season on Saturday to help continue to make his case as a top-15 selection in next April’s draft. Thomas is best in pass protection, but Okwara and Kareem know how to cause fits. Okwara, who has a good chance to go in the first-round as well, hasn’t popped on the stat sheet, but he has lived in opposing backfields by winning with power and heavy hands. Meanwhile, Kareem isn’t going to go as high as him teammate in the draft, but he will still find a role in the NFL as an edge rusher that contributes against the run, and offers some eye-popping length to fend off offensive tackles to get after the passer.) (9-22-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/09/21/2020-nfl-draft-5-prospect-matchups-to-watch-in-week-4/
Five possible Lions 2020 draft prospects: Week 4 (Julian Okwara, DE, Notre Dame: The Lions found a diamond in the rough with one Okwara, claiming Romeo off waivers from the Giants last year. He immediately emerged as a productive member of the team's defensive line rotation, earning a two-year extension this offseason. Given that, who would say no to a second Okwara? Julian plays the same position, but isn't as big as his brother. Both are listed at 6-foot-4, but Romeo has 15-20 pounds on his younger sibling. Still, the Julian has generated more buzz as a prospect after racking up 61 pass-rush pressures and 8.0 sacks as a junior. Georgia counters with a solid offensive line, led by likely first-round pick Andrew Thomas at left tackle.) (9-20-19): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/09/20/five-possible-detroit-lions-2020-draft-prospects-week-4/2383624001/
College Football Game of the Week: Notre Dame vs Georgia (Obviously, the top matchups can be found on the line of scrimmage. Notre Dame defensive end, Julian Okwara was given mid-first-round grades by NFL scouts coming into the season and is viewed as one of the better edge rushers available in the 2020 NFL Draft. Teammate Khalid Kareem is not far behind, universally receiving second-round grades. Okwara is more athletic and a better pass-rusher while Kareem is more stout at the point of attack and a much better run defender. Don’t forget about senior Daelin Hayes, another talented next-level defensive end who comes off the bench for the Irish.) (9-20-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-game-of-the-week-notre-dame-georgia/
2020 NFL Draft: Top prospect matchups to watch in Week 4 (Georgia LT Andrew Thomas vs. Notre Dame's Khalid Kareem and Julian Okwara: When Notre Dame heads down to Georgia, it will be the largest collection of draftable talent facing off in any game we’ve seen yet this season. The marquee matchup will be right along the line of scrimmage. Both Andrew Thomas and Julian Okwara look very likely to be first-round selections come next April, checking in at 10th and 17th on the PFF draft board, respectively. Kareem is more of a Day 2 guy, but that’s still a great litmus test for both him and Thomas. Okwara is one of the best players in the nation at converting speed-to-power with a prodigious combo of length and burst. Kareem is more of pure power player and even played defensive tackle early in his Notre Dame career. Thomas is currently the highest-graded tackle in the country and won’t face a better edge duo all season, and the Notre Dame duo won’t face a better tackle. This is tape scouts will be coming back to frequently next spring.) (9-19-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-top-prospect-matchups-to-watch-in-week-4
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: WEEK 4 (Okwara is the Fighting Irish’s best chance to get through Thomas on passing downs. To no surprise, Notre Dame’s defense is crafted to enable Okwara as a rusher. Unlike Kareem, Okwara often plays out of a stand-up position and from an alignment that is a gap removed from the offensive tackle. Okwara is a fairly bendy and agile pass-rusher, but it’s his ability to convert speed to power that carries the most weight in his skill set. If given the space to build up for a couple steps, Okwara can move into an offensive tackle’s chest in such quick, powerful fashion that they have no option but to stumble backwards and hope to recover before they bump into the quarterback. Okwara will have a tough time winning that way versus Thomas, though. Thomas has a fierce anchor and won’t let Okwara win off the initial punch. It’s going to take a little something extra from Okwara to get the best of Thomas. Suffice to say, Notre Dame’s defensive ends have a tough task ahead of them. Thomas is looking to be a top-10 pick seven months from now. The two Irish ends will be solid pros, too, especially Okwara, but Thomas is going to hand them one of their quieter performances as a duo. Advantage: Thomas) (9-18-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-week-4
2020 NFL Draft, Notre Dame and independents preview: Will Ian Book find big-time success in the NFL (Julian Okwara, DE: The 6-foot-5, 240-pound pass rusher broke out in 2018, recording 8.0 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss. While he isn't the biggest DE, Okwara makes up for it with his incredibly high motor that will undoubtedly impress scouts who watch his film. Okwara is relentless in his pursuit of opposing quarterbacks, as he recorded a whopping 61 pressures last season. Our Ryan Wilson had him going to the Tennessee Titans with the 12th overall pick in a recent mock draft.) (8-19-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-notre-dame-and-independents-preview-will-ian-book-find-big-time-success-in-the-nfl/
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