Prepped in Alabama. Played all 13 games as a true freshman in 2009 and was credited with 12 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and a sack with one interception. Played all 13 games in 2010 (one start at right end) and had 11 tackles, two tackles for loss and two sacks. In 2011, he had seven tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack in three games before having season-ending microdisectomy surgery to repair a herniated disc in his back. Was granted a medical hardship, preserving a year of eligibility. Started 7 of 11 games played at defensive end in 2012, totaling 34 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and six sacks with a batted pass, forced fumble and blocked kick. Suffered an abdominal injury against Arkansas; did not play against Ole Miss and was hampered against Vanderbilt, Texas A&M and New Mexico State. Hurt his left MCL during 2013 fall camp. Missed the first two games (Washington State, Arkansas State) and did not start against Mississippi State, but started the final 11 games and collected 29 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks with a batted pass and two forced fumbles. Was not medically cleared to work out at the combine after a medical exam revealed a problem stemming from previous back surgery (medical exclusion).
Analysis
Strengths
Very good acceleration and burst to beat blockers off the ball. Anticipates the snap very well and has a long second step. Plays with urgency and keeps working to the quarterback. Outstanding energy and work ethic. Athletic enough to fall in coverage and play on his feet. Beat Texas A&M RT Cedric Ogbuehi for two sacks to close out a 45-41 upset victory in 2013 and finished the season strong. Respected, defensive tempo-setter. Distinguished by his effort, hustle and pursuit.
Weaknesses
Undersized -- thin-framed, lacks bulk and anchor strength to dig in vs. the run. Cannot convert speed to power and gets stalled if he cannot work half of a blocker. Struggles to discard blockers when locked up and gets inverted. Not comfortable moving in reverse. Has consistently been dinged with injuries and has never made it through a full season healthy. Recorded a very pedestrian 4.73-second 20-yard shuttle time at his pro day, indicative of marginal change of direction.
Draft Projection
Top 50
Bottom Line
High-motor college left defensive end perhaps suited for a rush linebacker role in the pros. Has added more than 50 pounds to his frame since arriving on campus and has demonstrated the desire, work habits and competitiveness to develop into a productive edge rusher if he can stay healthy and is programmed to go get the quarterback only.
-Nolan Nawrocki
