Corey Lemonier DE Auburn #55
Wt: 255
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Size/Athleticism: Has the athleticism of an explosive edge rusher. Impressive change of direction ability for a lineman. Can use the speed rusher to the outside, but quickly shift inside if the lineman is able to kick outside with him.
Run Defense: Has quick feet and can weave through traffic to get to the ball carrier. Struggles at the point of attack. Lacks the lower body strength to hold his ground and can be directed fairly easily by stronger offensive linemen.
Pass Rush: Athletic enough to take advantage of slow-footed tackles. Made a few really nice double moves against Alabama left tackle Barrett Jones in 2011 to demonstrate his ability to maneuver against the technically sound, but athletically challenged linemen. Shows a nice array of pass-rush moves.
Versatility: Primarily played with his hand on the ground at Auburn, but could definitely transition to a 3-4 scheme in the NFL. Some experience dropping into coverage.
Intangibles: Criticized for his play at the end of the 2012 season. When the team struggled, he seemed to go in the tank. Teams will need to ask him about his play during interviews to make a determination about his effort level.
Durability: No known issues. Made 24 starts and played in 34 games in three years.
Comments: Lemonier is an explosive pass-rusher who may be best suited to shift to linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. He flew under the radar at Auburn due to their miserable 2012 season, but he is among the best pure pass-rushers in this class and could make an immediate impact in the right system. He will be criticized for his struggles at the point of attack, but you have to accept that with some undersized pass-rushers. He’ll make up for it by making some impressive plays in pursuit when the play goes the opposite direction.
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