small_school_prospect_scouting

small_school_prospect_scouting Welcome to small school prospect scouting where I scout lesser known talents from all across the world.

____+ Multiple times has showcased incredible arm length and strength, with one arm bar a defender to the ground with ea...
01/03/2023

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+ Multiple times has showcased incredible arm length and strength, with one arm bar a defender to the ground with ease and then look for his next assignment
+ Has great lower center and base to maintain against All-American talent. Does great at springing the outside lane and ability to climb into the second level. Taking on + eliminating the second level defenders
+ Always finishes his blocks with brutal physicality and pancakes
+ Does very well at chip blocking for his RG
+ Has experience with playing both RT and OG in his RS Sophomore season
+ His mentality, edge and alpha dawg effect is showcased every game he played in and you love to see it
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- Slight issues with his overall balance in open space. Might be a bit concerning at the next level due to the speed of IDL and ILB just avoiding and dipping around him
- Has an inconsistent strike zone with his hand placement. Leading to off balance situations and grabbing higher up and getting hands to the faced called on him
- Doesn't contain high burst of acceleration on pulling situations and is a average athlete
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Will be interesting to see him in 1v1 practice+ the Shrine Bowl game for the higher physical and athletic threshold of division I opponents. As he doesn't seem too overwhelmed with division II defenders
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Brent is a Division II star lineman who was on Reese's Senior Bowl Preseason Watch in 2021. Late last year accepted an invitation to play in the 2023 NFL Shrine Bowl where he will play and showcase his talents later on this year. Does have NFL size, length and strength but as an offensive guard more so than a offensive tackle. I love his physicality and how he drives and uses leverage to open gaps and rush lanes with the addition of pancaking people left and right. Would fit well for the multiple teams who run zone run schemes. I believe his maximum potential is similar to a Ben Bartch similar type of player who can start if needed but a higher quality backup offensive lineman. I have a late 7th round grade on him with the potential for his stock to rise with the Shrine Bowl later on this year.
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________+ Great pursuit angles in side-line-side-line. Will normally be in frame at the end with assist and overall effo...
01/03/2023

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+ Great pursuit angles in side-line-side-line. Will normally be in frame at the end with assist and overall effort on each and every play
+ Is perfectly fine with waiting and reacting for that 1½ second in runs defense to beat the offensive lineman on internal runs
+ Has excellent bend as a delayed blitzer getting by IOL
+ Can shoot gaps and dip + avoid for high-end speed impact of TFL
+ Is capable to be a SLB at the next level with addition of being a more so built and molded for a 3-4 ILB
+ Able to be used as a QB spy for a Dan Jones, PJ Walker sneaky athletic type QB wise
+ Elite drive, effort and composure throughout games
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- Can occasionally get off balanced in open space and against the higher end talent at RBs in the NFL will get more exposed with missed tackles
- stiffer hips, and doesn't flow naturally in horizontal movement in zone coverage. Will get drawn in towards the left or right depending on the motion. Losing the zone leverage and then makes up for it in his top end pursuit
- doesn't have ideal size or high end atheism, just an average athlete. Will still be serviceable but won't eye popping for NFL scouts to be a higher draft pick hype
- Has lots to improve more in the pass rush aspect of things if moved to SLB has lighter hands and nothing other than pure strength and bullrush effort in his disrupting blitz's
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Johnny has been one of the best linebackers in the nation over the previous two years. This year was one of the top 3 best linebackers in the FCS. I'm not sure if there's a game he doesn't play to his full potential in SDSU, Navy, Rutgers, JMU, W&M etc etc. Has lots of the NFL tools to be a fit for a 3-4 defense ILB 2 or a 4-3 SLB. Does have experience in kick coverage to be basically redshirted his rookie year from defense to adjust to the NFL level. I think his potential is a starter caliber player for a more super physical defense and less based on speed. For example Tennessee, Minnesota and Houston would be great fits for him. I have a late 3rd round grade on him. Realistically could be a later day 3 selection and or higher end UDFA.
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____+ Is a heat seeking missile when he shoots through the gaps. Will read and react with perfection on inside counters ...
01/03/2023

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+ Is a heat seeking missile when he shoots through the gaps. Will read and react with perfection on inside counters
+ Hard nosed tackler delivers like it's the early 2000s
+ Position flexibility to be a WLB and a MLB
+ Love the hustle downfield looking for contact on kickoff coverage
+ Has the key experience and reps on special teams of what most small school UDFA have to prove their worth to make an NFL roster
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- occasionally gets fake out and will take a half step up on play actions giving a open zones
- Will get blocked out easily by TEs and OL in space struggling to fight off the block and eliminating him from the play
- Will over pursue and semi eliminate himself out of the play
- Doesn't have NFL size, length or top end speed to handle being a starter caliber LB
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Juanya' is a very physical linebacker of division II ECSU. He had a good career for the Vikings with some higher end games Winston-Salem, Livingstone and Virginia Union were graded out as (B+) this season. He was invited to the FCS Bowl and had some flashes as well there. I believe he can have a great career as a special teams player in the NFL as an ace. However his size and length will hinder his ability to be anything other than a LB3-4 in the NFL. I feel he will be best in one of the spring leagues to see if he can handle the overall size and speed threshold of former NFL level players. If he can excel there he will be on a NFL roster in no time. I have a UDFA grade on him for this year's draft.
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___+ Is an athletic tackle that loves getting to that second level and taking on another block and eliminating them + Ha...
12/22/2022

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+ Is an athletic tackle that loves getting to that second level and taking on another block and eliminating them
+ Has some of the best mix of low anchor strength with vice grips arm strength bullying defensive lineman play in and play out
+ Can handle DE's rips and recover nicely and still prolong it enough for his QB Bushka to be able to either delivery an accurate pass or scramble throughout the middle of the pocket
+ Great effort when on a WR motion, RB screens and TE screens to get down field and deliver the spring block for their teammate to break a huge gain
+ Keeps his strength, balance and intensity throughout the game doesn't seem to get worn out physically on the field until after that last whistle
+ Handled the stunts vs SDSU quite well, not elite against but very serviceable
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- Isn't the greatest when sliding the line to the left. Will be just a step and a half behind causing room for error to increase.
- His pass set is at times too far setting himself up for potential exposure of a getting beat by a spin move inside
- against SDSU showcased that speed rushers will give him lots of fits due to his longer step pass set up
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Skyler is one of the best offensive lineman that the Pioneer League has had over the last 3 years. Starting at RT has been one of the consistent players for the Butler Bulldogs. Has NFL length, grit and lots of experience. His biggest task was against MVFC powerhouse South Dakota State where he graded out with a (B+) he held his own throughout the game not getting manhandled, something you would assume from the scoreboard of that game. He would do quite well vs fellow PFL members not allowing more than a pressure vs Valparaiso, and Morehead State. Has tools to be an NFL 3rd string OT or OG if needed. At the FCS Bowl showcased his abilities very well helping his stock even more. Practiced at both RT/RG and had a decent showing in the game as well. Strong possibility of a rookie mini-camp invite for him by Indianapolis, Cleveland or Cincinnati. Most likely will be a USFL/XFL type player. I have a higher end UDFA grade on him.
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__+ Has an extremely powerful right hand jab and then maintains his leverage and getting consistent drive of his IOL + R...
12/21/2022

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+ Has an extremely powerful right hand jab and then maintains his leverage and getting consistent drive of his IOL
+ Reads and reacting to the QBs eyes while getting his hands up for batted balls or just vision issues for the QB
+ Great gap discipline doesn't get tricked on play action or when a WR/TE motions and stays within his gap
+ Will do well in the limited stunts they run with him at RMC
+ Had a very rewarding FCS Bowl practice and game showcasing he can handle Division 1 and division II opponents
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- limited in his pass rush abilities needs to get more than just strong arming and bull rushing people works in college won't every down in the NFL
- will at times get subbed out on 3rd and short situations throughout multiple games
- Doesn't really flash off the screen. Is more a isn't incredible, but also not bad just above average
- when he bullrushes will look down when driving and all I think when I see that is a NFL center will pancake you 9/10 if you're facing your head down in that situation
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Wes is an IDL from Rocky Mountain College a NAIA school who is 27. Who has put together two pretty consistent seasons of work in. Has the size and strength to be a pro level defensive lineman leaning towards USFL or XFL. A zero and one tech does well vs more RG's than LG's. Has very consistent success vs centers as well. His 2021 season did better at getting into the backfield for TFL's and sacks but this year declined in both, however I suggest he was more responsible for opening gaps with double teams drawn his way. With more development in his pass rush technique. I think he could potentially get into a second rotation line in the NFL. However currently I see him as a spring league guy in the USFL or XFL. My grade is a UDFA with great upside.
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______+ vicious run blocker, will drive his assignment out of the picture + Will sit in soft zones and consistently get ...
12/20/2022

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+ vicious run blocker, will drive his assignment out of the picture
+ Will sit in soft zones and consistently get you first downs and keeping the drive going
+ Is a true TE not a gimmick big WR like you would assume by his stats
+ Great job at tracking the ball when thrown a tad bit inaccurate
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- lacks NFL size and non WR type speed for example of what a Waller in Las Vegas would have.
- He doesn't break from his routes quick enough just looks semi slower than even most division II and FCS TEs which will hurt his case to NFL scouts
- had a poor showcasing on special teams in the FCS Bowl and wasn't eye popping on his limited offensive reps either
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De'queze is one of my best TEs in Division III and multi-time All-American. He is one of the best receiving threats in the division and had a dip in production from his Junior season to his Senior year but still has talent. The thing that stands out is the run blocking ability has a powerful first step driving his opponents into the next level. Just consistent with sticky hands as a short down threat for positive yards. I think the poor FCS Bowl appearance and his shorter stature is what's gonna prevent him from an NFL opportunity. However I think he has a good chance to flourish in the AFL, IFL or down in Brazil with how great he is at catching the ball. I have a UDFA grade on him.
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+ Has great leverage and ability to pick up blitzes and protect his QB + Tremendous balance and ability to stay up and g...
12/13/2022

+ Has great leverage and ability to pick up blitzes and protect his QB
+ Tremendous balance and ability to stay up and get another 3-5 extra yards
+ Has smooth release out of the backfield getting open on short routes. Getting positive yards almost every reception touch
+ Quick burst when hitting the hole on counter towards the weak side
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- Was a limited production being a RB2-3 in the Dartmouth rotation for 2021 & 2022.
- Isn't the most powerful with upper body strength in full speed vs LBs will get punishment instead of being the one infected it
- fails to maintain the explosiveness when hitting the second level getting caught from behind lacking the top notch athletic aspect
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Zack is a solid 5th year senior running back from the Ivy League's Dartmouth and the extra year helped get him a little bigger sample size than what he had previously. This will get him a shot in the secondary pro leagues if he wants it. However I don't see him as an NFL type player. I have a mid level UDFA grade with opportunities in the USFL, XFL or CFL.

_+ Willing to take hits, and throw into tight windows while anticipating the hit. + Pro level size and arm strength + 4t...
12/13/2022

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+ Willing to take hits, and throw into tight windows while anticipating the hit.
+ Pro level size and arm strength
+ 4th and short can deliver in higher level situations
+ Isn't afraid to utilize his TEs and RBs on shorter distance throws and get drives moving and ahead of schedule
+ Has decent depth in his 5 step drop and a smooth play action fake hitting his receiver in stride most times from this
+ He can absolutely rip it down the seams and get 50+ yard TDs in tighter windows
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- lacks mobility and ability to take off in the pocket and consistently get you positive yards on the ground
- gets caught looking inside at his read, and missing the underneath LB who is baiting him into throwing a very high risk ball
- when pressured instead of taking the sack will throw some of the stupidest throws basically right to the defenders
- doesn't always throw with the same consistent spiral and will cause his ball to float high and behind his WRs
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Dylan, yes, is the brother of SF superstar RB Christian McCaffrey. He started off at Michigan before ending off with a starting job for Northern Colorado. This season he had peaks and valleys for his performances. Against Montana State (B) Idaho State (B-) Sacramento State (C-) Idaho (C-) even a mid level opponent in Houston Baptist {at the time} (C-). He shows flashes of a NFL potential player as moreso a backup. I really believe that the tools are there. He just needs someone like Jordan Palmer to unlock his full potential and make great strides in his development. He would fit in a system like: SF, NYJ, Miami, Cleveland and Denver. Most likely will have to go to the USFL or XFL for a chance to prove himself if a preseason roster opportunity doesn't happen. I have a late 7th round grade on him with a possible rookie mini-camp invite and preseason opportunity.

_+ Extremely high morter throughout games with high end effort. Always will be in frame and end up within the tackling a...
12/09/2022

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+ Extremely high morter throughout games with high end effort. Always will be in frame and end up within the tackling at the result of the play when he would be yards away with his assignment.
+ Great side-line to side-line speed and ability to track down elusive running backs, wide receiver jet motions or mobile QBs
+ Has a good thump on initial contact with TEs and OTs
+ Very well done in zone passing the receiver to the secondary and advancing to his new assignment.
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- Is a step too far inside in man coverage giving leeway to the offensive skill position. An elite route runner would easily fake jab and have him turned around and get the outside flat wide open with leverage.
- Stiff hips in coverage need more flexibility and flow instead of slower motion backpedal when we're going full speed. Elite side-line speed can cover this flaw in college but not the pros
- pass rush move set is still raw, without having a signature move. Usage of hands is avg at best would take a year or so of development
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Jalean is a very solid OLB for Mississippi College. The work effort, pure effort and athletic traits are the biggest tools of his success. The main thing that will land him a spot at the next level is how great of a tackler he is and his stellar work on special teams. His work as an edge will be something that has to be worked on developing wise but a place like the USFL, XFL, GFL would be nice spots for him to be at. I have a mid level UDFA grade with excellent potential to be unlocked.

_+ I really enjoy watching his play action fake, sells it perfectly and then will throw higher end balls. + Will take th...
12/05/2022

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+ I really enjoy watching his play action fake, sells it perfectly and then will throw higher end balls.
+ Will take the short checkdown 4 yard throws instead of throwing into chaotic windows. Moving the ball efficiently down the field slowly but surely.
+ Comes up big on 3rd and mediums showing he has the ability to overcome the adversity of smaller results of 1st and 2nd downs.
+ Has beautiful throws on the boundaries of the end zone within tight coverage. Pro level type throws
+ Showcases his deep ball capability vs Penn & Brown with some fantastic deep shots.
+ Fluent in his 5 step drop, and is almost polished in 3 step drop. You would never have noticed that he was a backup to begin the year.
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- I don't think he has the best pre-play adjustments of being able to read the pre-play blitz eye candy and shifting his line to account for his own blocking safety. Against Yale you could see that they would show blitz him look doesn't check out and end up getting sacked or pressured nonchalantly
- Isn't the greatest of athlete's is similar to a Mac Jones you love to see him stay within the pocket and deliver. Once he has to run can get a few but not much on the ground for you.
- Pocket presents is very questionable. Some games he feels when to step up perfectly and other times seems clueless. Against Yale they ran a nascar package and he seemed to be shaken from the ability the Bulldogs had with speed off the edge.
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Caden was a backup for most of his tenure at Columbia University. It wasn't until the 3rd quarter of the Penn game until he got his true moment to shine. Even with the smaller sample size of 5 games started and 7 with at minimum 10+ throws in. He showcased in my opinion that he can be a USFL or XFL type QB. He is one who keeps you on schedule and will take what the defense gives you. While not having the biggest arm can still get you big 35-40 yard chunk plays. In the RedZone he is normally money and pairing him with a smaller elusive back will set up incredible results in the play action game. I think his potential is a NFL rookie mini-camp invite but will more than likely be a spring league QB. His 6'0 frame and being an Ivy League player might give him some push back from NFL scouts. I have a mid-level UDFA grade on him with decent interest in the USFL and XFL.

__+ High end side-line-side-line speed + Gives his all Bob Sanders type tackling effort + Has an athletic nature of a bl...
11/15/2022

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+ High end side-line-side-line speed
+ Gives his all Bob Sanders type tackling effort
+ Has an athletic nature of a blitz to beat the inside OG
+ Has shown out vs top opponents this season
+ Against TEs very well done in press man to man coverage
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- Has a higher miss tackle rate than you would like from your MLB
- will drop 2½ yards further than needed in zone coverage leading to first downs and TDs
- Has trouble fighting through the bodies and coming up and making the play
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Fa'Avae started at Washington State where he showcased his ability to be a potential star defensive player. He took full advantage of the spring season to boost his talents one up then in the 2021 fall season and now having an excellent senior year. His type of play reminds me of the hybrid type player they made Deone Bucannon in Arizona in the later part of the 2010s. A very athletic LB who brings old school physicality in his tackles. With great effort to chase down rushers and help gang tackle them. #2 is seen in most wrap up situations for Idaho. I really enjoy watching him 1v1 in press man coverage. He does excellent work vs bigger bodied TEs. The downsides are he is smaller as a MLB. Struggles with maintaining inside zone leverage and opening the holes behind him for the passing lane. Can at times get overwhelmed by IOL and get eliminated from affecting the play. Missed open field tackles a tad concerning vs shifter RBs. With that being said I have a 7th round grade on him. High chance of making a preseason roster and competing for a ST and lower 53 spot on a NFL team.
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____+ High IQ pre-snap recognition   + Once he gets you wrapped, 9/10 times you're not going anywhere + Excellent read a...
11/14/2022

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+ High IQ pre-snap recognition
+ Once he gets you wrapped, 9/10 times you're not going anywhere
+ Excellent read and react timing and closing speed
+ High effort will hustle his ass off to get to the play
+ He is very capable to cover in both man and zone coverage
+ Did very well vs FIU, HC, NCAT and LIU
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- Hips are smooth, but takes an extra step to get that explosion in his acceleration in coverage over the center field
- needs to add a few pass rushing moves into his toolbox to be able to execute more complex blitzs
- Can at times get pushed inside and swallowed up within the IOL and not get out of it
- when free rushing the passer needs to get his hands up and get into the QB vision, and possible knockdowns
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Joe is one of the finest LBs in the FCS. Both his sophomore and junior year he dealt with injuries but his senior year showcases when healthy is a top 3-5 ILB in the division. His biggest showcase game was vs FIU where he played a (A-) level game. Also did well vs HC (B+) and NCAT (A). Outside of his incredible ability to tackle with very minimum missed tackles. His coverage is just outstanding outside of a few bites on play action; he stands his ground, fluent hips and can keep up with higher athletic TEs. I believe he can play both the MLB or the WLB at the next level at a high end level. He will most likely be a second string LB who will earn his way up the depth chart his rookie season. I have a 5th round grade on him. Most likely will be a higher end UDFA and Preseason roster spot. At worst will be a star ILB in the XFL or USFL.
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