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Photo of Marcell Dareus
Grade
8.69 ?
  • 4.93 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 24 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 27.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.83 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.62 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 6'3" Height
  • 33 3/8" Arm Length
  • 319LBS. Weight
  • 10 1/8" Hands

Overview

Dareus is one of this class' finest prospects. Possesses the athleticism and explosiveness to be consistently disruptive against the run and pass. Hands that don't stop, sheds blockers quickly, and frequently uses the swim move to get to the quarterback. Also has great power to push the pocket and stand his ground adequately when run at. Blessed with great feet and outstanding lateral quickness. Comfortable playing in space and likely capable of dropping into coverage. Only question is his endurance and stamina. Played in a rotation early and dealt with injuries as a junior. Dareus will likely be a top-five pick, maybe even go No. 1 overall.

Analysis

Strengths

Dareus has a rare blend of size and speed. Can hold his ground at the point of attack. Gets off blocks in a hurry and shows excellent pursuit from the backside. Explodes off the ball when rushing the passer. Gets to the quarterback with power, quick moves and closing burst. Good intangibles.

Weaknesses

Hard to find flaws in this guy's game. Some have him pegged as a 3-4 defensive end but we don't feel he's at his best as a two-gap defensive lineman. Played in a defensive line rotation for much of his college career and is still developing in-game stamina.
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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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