Dee Ford DE Auburn #30
Wt: 252
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[level-2014-scouting-reports]
Size/Athleticism: Lacks ideal strength to be a well-rounded defender. Athleticism tests well but it doesn’t show up on the field. He’s more fast than quick.
Run Defense: Lacks the power to hold up at the point of attack. Easily swallowed up by bigger offensive linemen. Above average speed allows him to cover a lot of ground. Fast enough to make some plays in pursuit. Lacks awareness at times. Doesn’t do a great job keeping his eyes in the backfield and is often late to react. Takes inconsistent angles in pursuit.
Pass Rush: A pure speed rusher. Relies on winning off his first step, but his snap anticipation is inconsistent at best. Often the last lineman to react. A pure speed rusher and struggles to convert that speed to power. Once he’s locked up with an offensive lineman, he struggles to disengage. Shows a decent spin move at times.
Versatility: Occasionally used in coverage, both man and zone. Will sometimes rush the quarterback, but then slide off in man coverage with a running back swinging out into the flat. Has experience lining up with his hand on the ground and standing up.
Intangibles: Hard worker. Added over 40 pounds during his college career.
Durability: Did not participate at combined due to a spine injury. Missed time in 2012 due to an abdominal injury. Suffered a herniated disk in 2011 which ended his season. Missed a game with an undisclosed injury in 2010.
[/level-2014-scouting-reports]
Comments: What you see is what you get with Ford. He’s a pure speed rusher and certainly capable of making an impact at the next level but he probably isn’t going to be a three-down lineman. His stock may also be affected by his significant injury history. Even if the injuries are unrelated and don’t pose a risk of reoccurring, it’s tough to ignore the fact that he’s been injured nearly every year of his career. He should ultimately land in the top 50, even if it’s only to be used as a situational pass-rusher.