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Photo of Simoni Lawrence
Grade
?
  • 4.68 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 40.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 6'0" Height
  • 33" Arm Length
  • 232LBS. Weight
  • 9 5/8" Hands

Overview

Lawrence started in 2009 for the Gophers after transferring from Valley Forge Military Academy in 2008. He is an undersized, athletic linebacker who will need to be covered up to be effective at the next level. He doesn't anchor well when defending the run but will attack the line of scrimmage. He is best pursuing inside-out to the ball and using his speed and quickness to navigate through traffic. Lawrence can be explosive at times as a tackler but doesn't always maintain leverage in space. He needs to play with more control and wrap up better to be a more consistent run defender. He has the athleticism to be a good man- and zone-coverage defender. Lawrence is a bit of a 'tweener (linebacker/ safety) and likely will contribute on special teams and in sub packages as a nickel linebacker.

Analysis

Strengths

Lawrence is a fast, sideline-to-sideline player who can cover the deep middle in pass coverage. Possesses very good initial burst to make plays behind the line of scrimmage. Fluid athlete who sticks with backs in man coverage and shows the ability to jump underneath routes in zone.

Weaknesses

Lacks the size and bulk for the linebacker position and is not stout against runs to his side. A bit slow reacting to the ball and takes poor angles in run support. Does not always set the edge and loses leverage. Inconsistent tackler who struggles to make plays in the open field.
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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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