This is a strong defensive line class, and Ted Thompson is capitalizing. Lowry is built for the 3-4 and he has starting upside in the NFL. They should have a nice rotation up front next season.
--Mark Dulgerian
6'6" Height
31" Arm Length
296LBS. Weight
9 3/8" Hands
Overview
The Chicago Tribune All-State pick decided to stay in-state to play for a Wildcats legend in head coach Pat Fitzgerald at Northwestern. Like Fitzgerald was during his time as a two-time Bronko Nagurski Trophy and Chuck Bednarik Award winner with the Wildcats, Lowry is a lunch pail player who brings effort on every snap. Hes also a better athlete than most people realize, showing the agility to spin off blocks and make plays in the backfield (15 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks in 2013-2014). His senior year capped an excellent career, with a highlight being his school-record six tackles for loss against Nebraska. He finished as a second-team All-Big Ten honoree with 46 tackles, 13.5 for loss, and three sacks. Lowry could play multiple spots along the line depending on his new teams defensive scheme.
Analysis
Strengths
Comes off the snap with burst and good pad level. Gives chase on the backside with great motor and good play speed. Willing to pursue the ball with consistency or effort. When pad level is good, can generate effective speed-to-power attack. Has play frame to fit classic 3-4 DE spot. Coaches praise his work ethic and team-first mentality. Does the dirty work that helps others succeed. Always active. Tackle finisher who rarely allows runners to escape. Had as many tackles and more tackles for loss than Joey Bosa.
Weaknesses
Short arms and small hands prevent him from posting higher win percentage at point of attack. Not as aware of the ball as he needs to be. Needs to unhinge from blockers earlier when runners are in his neighborhood. Gets stood straight up at contact as bull rusher. Pad level and narrow base rob him of bull-rush power when rushing from inside. Dull, straight-ahead rusher with no pass rush plan. Doesnt threaten the edges of blockers. Marginal playmaking change of direction.
Draft Projection
Round 7 or priority free agent
Bottom Line
Try-hard player with good size who is always active. While he wont be considered a pass rushing threat, Lowrys production was a function of effort and flashes of power and the aforementioned traits and qualities give him a good shot at being drafted and becoming an NFL backup.
