2017 NFL Draft Profile: Haason Reddick
Haason Reddick is a prospect in this draft that adds to the plethora of talent on defense. With several teams looking to strengthen at defensive end and line backer, Reddick is a legitimate and viable first round candidate. Here are my thoughts on the former Temple star.
Combine Results
Reddick had a very impressive combine that caught the eye of plenty of fans and pundits alike.
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 237 lbs
40-Yard Dash: 4.52 seconds
Bench Press: 24
Vertical Jump: 36.5 inches
Broad Jump: 133 inches
Strengths
Coming out of the combine, Reddick proved that he can contend with the best. In the OLB class, Reddick was first in the 40-yard dash, third in the vertical jump, second in the bench press and first in the broad jump. He dominated the combine and he has the performances on tape to back this performance up. At Temple, Reddick lined up on the end but his versatility allows him to be a DE and OLB. As was widely noticed at the combine, Reddick is quick and explosive.
It’s fine having explosion off the line, but you also need instincts and anticipation. Reddick has both and this makes him stand out even more. When watching his tape, depending on the play, you can almost guarantee Reddick is the first one off the line going after the football.
Reddick is a very dynamic player too, which makes him even more dangerous. Primarily at Temple he lined up on the edge, but on occasions he dropped into coverage. His play recognition is impressive. His quick feet and awareness allow him to drop into coverage and make plays. When playing in coverage, Reddick only gave up eight receptions out of 22 throws that came his way. The versatility on offer is clear, Reddick is able to perform at a high level and offer teams a great addition in forming a deadly and dynamic defense. Whether it is playing on the edge or dropping into coverage, Haason Reddick can do it all.
Weaknesses
One of the issues that arises with Reddick is the fact that he can miss tackles, he lacks consistency in this departmen In 2016, Reddick missed a total of fifteen tackles in 76 attempts. Some of this can be put down to the fact that Reddick seems to rely on arm tackles than can be broken, rather than putting his body into the tackle and driving the player to the ground. This is worrying for teams considering him in the draft.
Being an explosive player can be hugely beneficial but it can cause some issues. Reddick can have a tendency to overrun plays which results in him having to put more effort in to get back involved in the action.
Lining up on the edge, Reddick was quite impressive. However he seems to lack that all important counter move that will allow him to get free and make more plays.
The Verdict
Haason Reddick is very exciting prospect in the draft. An explosive player that has versatility that many teams are looking for. Teams will want to take advantage that he can line up on the edge and drop into coverage. This provides a very useful weapon on defense. While Reddick does have some weaknesses that may hamper him in certain ways, I feel like under the right coaching many of the issues will be ironed out. Reddick could become a very impressive defensive player in the NFL.
Draft Prediction: Previous to the combine, I had Reddick going at the lower end of the first round with the Steelers being a possibility. After the combine, I can see him going higher in the draft. I can see him going between 20 and 25.
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