Preseason Scouting Report: Defensive Linemen
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Maryland has a ton of defensive line talent. There are many productive edge rushers. There are also many good interior defenders. This is what you can expect to see from some of the best. Nnamdi Udeogu MD #108 DL #14…
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Continue ReadingMaryland has a ton of defensive line talent. There are many productive edge rushers. There are also many good interior defenders. This is what you can expect to see from some of the best.
Udeogu is a high-ceiling prospect. He has the frame to be an elite player. He does a great job of using his length to keep blockers off of him. He also does a good job of using his hands to disengage blockers. If he can improve his rush moves he can develop into a power 5 talent.
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Onyekuru is more than your traditional nose tackle. He is massive. However, he is not just a space filler. He has good inside rush moves to get into the backfield. He is also quick off the ball and has a good burst for someone his size. He also plays with lots of power as he is able to bulldoze blockers.
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Howard is a prime example of the evolution of the nose tackle. He is still huge but he is also very skilled. He is able to split double teams by making himself skinny. He also is athletic and mobile enough to slip blocks. He can also put a move on or bull rush isolated blockers in one on one situations.
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Merrick is an interior lineman with multiple tools. He does a good job of shedding off blocks. He has enough explosiveness that he can blow by a slower offensive lineman. He also does a good job of making run stops while being engaged in a block.
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Williams is a very productive interior lineman. He packs a punch as he knocks blockers back at first contact. He plays with a high motor and never gives up on the play. He is a very good run stuffer as he makes a ton of run stops at or behind the line of scrimmage.
Holmes is a coach’s dream. He is a turnover machine. He does a great job at punching at the ball when sacking quarterbacks. He also does a good job of falling on loose balls. He is a very intelligent player that plays with great awareness. On options plays, he stays patient and plays his role. He has immense awareness as he has even picked up backs that try to slip out of the backfield.
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Green is going to develop into a power 5 prospect. He is extremely explosive off the line. He has a very quick get-off. He has the good body control and bend to avoid blockers. He does a good job of using his hands to fight off blockers.