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Photo of A.J. Edds
Grade
?
  • 4.71 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.28 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 6'4" Height
  • 32 3/4" Arm Length
  • 246LBS. Weight
  • 9 1/8" Hands

Overview

Edds has been a productive three year starter for the Hawkeye defense. He wins with intelligence, toughness, instincts and technique rather than elite athleticism. Edds has decent range in pursuit and is aggressive to the pile. He is effective leveraging tight ends but needs added strength and power to set the edge versus larger offensive lineman. Edds needs to react quicker as route progressions unfold but has enough athleticism and instincts to be an effective zone coverage defender. He may be a liability in man schemes versus athletic tight ends and backs. Edds is a reliable open field tackler but not explosive on contact. Edds is a good football player that will likely contribute on special teams as well as giving valuable depth in his rookie season.

Analysis

Strengths

Edds possesses good length and above average strength for the next level. He’s a tough, competitive player. Was the vocal leader of his college defensive unit. Plays with good instincts and a high level of intelligence. Has been productive during his career.

Weaknesses

Edds needs an expanded pass rush package to be a more effective blitzer. He’s inconsistent reading route progressions. Not great in zone coverage and may really struggle against athletic targets in man coverage. Needs added bulk to more consistently deal with the inside power running game.
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Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.
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