Looking at Tyson Alualu of the Jacksonville Jaguars
By Editorial Staff
With the 10th pick in the 2010 NFL Draft the Jacksonville Jaguars select…… Tyson Alualu. Who? Even to those who knew Alualu this pick came as a major surprise; most were predicting Alualu as a 2nd round pick. The Jaguars were consistently ripped by those reviewing the draft and had countless fans distraught. I still question the pick but I wanted to spend a little more time looking at where Alualu would fit for Jacksonville.
At the time of the pick the Jaguars had former Pro Bowler John Henderson and the promising Terrance Knighton. So looking at the pick I wondered where the #10 overall pick would pick up playing time. I know that defensive lines rotate players frequently but I expected Alualu to get the majority of snaps. This issue was resolved when the Jaguars released Henderson, opening a spot of Alualu.
So now that there is an opening for Alualu let’s look at the player. Alualu played at California and is 6-2 295 pounds. He is extremely powerful and has a wide base that prevents offensive linemen from pushing him around. He utilizes his strength, high motor and powerful hands to generate pressure in the backfield. His best pass rush move is the bull rush and he lacks the top end speed to play the defensive end position in the 4-3 defense. Alualu can benefit by focusing this attention on refining his footwork and snap anticipation. Alualu is best suited for the 3 technique defensive tackle position where he will be expected to control the “B” gap on running plays and shoot that gap in passing situations.
I expect to see Alualu lined up next to Terrance Knighton in that 3 technique position. Knighton will be asked to play the nose tackle position and responsible for “A” gaps on running plays and expected to collapse to pocket on passing downs. Knighton possess the size and strength necessary to play this position.
After taking another look at the Jaguars decision to draft Alualu I think he has a chance to fit nicely. He has the motor and ability to generate pressure and hold up against the run. However, I still question the decision to select him at pick #10. I really wonder if they explored all trade opportunities because selecting Alualu several picks lower and picking up extra picks would have been more beneficial.