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Photo of Maurice Evans
Grade
?
  • 5.09 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 17 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 29.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 107.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.32 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.57 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 6'2" Height
  • 265LBS. Weight

Overview

Evans' decision to enter the draft as a junior was surprising considering his lack of production as a senior. Early in the season, he was suspended after marijuana was found in his apartment, taking him out of rhythm for most of the season (four starts, 34 tackles, three sacks). He was on most All-American watch lists entering 2008 because of his first-team All-Big Ten performance (12.5 sacks, five forced fumbles) as a sophomore. Although his draft stock has taken a beating, teams looking for a solid reserve end could consider Evans late in the draft.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Strong, low center of gravity end with adequate quickness and hustle. ... Can play on the weak or strong side. ... Gets most of his sacks on second and third effort. ... Goes for the turnover when bringing down the quarterback. ... Disengages to catch ballcarriers coming through the line. ... Wraps up well, can be an explosive tackler. Negatives: Shorter than scouts prefer in a defensive end and isn't fluid or quick enough to move to linebacker. ... Not explosive off the end, is kept at bay by his man too often. ... Most of his sacks are the result of strong coverage. ... More hustle than speed when chasing a play. ... Slow adjusting on bootlegs and misdirection. ... Lack of length and height prevent him from disengaging against larger tackles. ... Does not handle cut blocks well, lacks to the quickness to recover.
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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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