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Photo of Eric Norwood
Grade
?
  • 36.5 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 4.23 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 6'1" Height
  • 33 3/8" Arm Length
  • 245LBS. Weight
  • 9 1/2" Hands

Overview

Norwood is a short, well-built player that has been the Gamecocks' most productive defender over the past three seasons. He plays out of control at times, not leveraging the ball or maintaining his gap responsibility. He is a solid tackler, keeping good balance and wrapping effectively in the open field. Norwood isn’t a powerful hitter but does keep his pads over his feet which make him an efficient tackler. He is an instinctive player that reads quickly as both a run and pass defender. Norwood shows decent range in coverage but may be a liability in pure man schemes. He possesses strong hands to control blockers on contact and his low-center of gravity makes him tough to get off his feet. Norwood is a good football player that does have some limitations and discipline concerns (angles, leverage, etc.) but has enough tools to be a solid contributor at the next level.

Analysis

Strengths

Norwood’s a player who’s at his best when the lights are on. He’s a tough, competitive player who was highly productive in college. Doesn’t have any durability questions. Is an efficient tackler who can really break down in space and wrap up. Solid athlete and effective blitzer who displays good hand use and has a great motor in pursuit.

Weaknesses

For a player who loves to rush the passer, Norwood lacks ideal height. He can take inconsistent angles and needs to improve defending the run on the edge. Plays undisciplined at times within the defensive scheme. Can be caught out of position. Can play in coverage but could struggle in man against backs at the next level.
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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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