Nick Vigil, LB Utah State: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report
By Brady Lunt
A little-known university located in Logan, UT, Utah State has sent some well-known names to the NFL, highlighted by Seahawks’ All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner. Veteran Raider offensive tackle Donald Penn and Colt’s newly-signed running back Robert Turbin are also some familiar names that come from the Aggies program. With the 2016 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, we see another prospect who might not be as well-known now, but possesses an intriguing skill-set that could see him selected as high as the 3rd round. Linebacker Nick Vigil, whose brother Zach Vigil plays for the Dolphins, is not the biggest name on the block, and wasn’t coming out of high school. However, he could become a valuable member of the team willing to select him. Let’s find out what makes Vigil an intriguing prospect.
Measurables
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 240 lbs
Class: Junior
Strengths
Nick Vigil has been a very productive member of the Aggie’s defense, starting every game the last two seasons and amassing 267 tackles, including 30 for loss, 10 sacks, and seven forced fumbles. Such tackling production ranked him in the top-five overall in college football. Vigil has above-average instincts and has a nose for attacking the ball carrier. Plays with intensity and tremendous physical toughness, rarely coming off the field. He has a high football IQ and demonstrates an uncanny ability to read and react to the play. Quick first-step and rarely miscalculates angles on the ball. Has been praised for having a high work ethic and character. Is a true-leader and shows a “humble” style of football, often doing the dirty work to set his teammates up to make plays.
Below are highlights from Nick Vigil and the Aggeis facing the Boise St. Broncos. In this game, Vigil put together a monstrous effort totaling 14 tackles and two sacks. His tenacity and nose for the ball are clearly evident.
Weaknesses
Vigil has to rely on his intelligence and instinct as he does not possess elite athletic traits. Does not have the strength to shed blocks, often spending too much time trying to fight off blockers. Lacks the speed to match the acceleration and burst of running backs. Will need to improve play position and technique, as he plays tall and unbalanced rather than getting low and driving towards the ball carrier. While it is rare, if he takes a wrong angle, he doesn’t have the athleticism to recover. Will almost certainly be a liability if he’s asked to drop back into man coverage.
Final Thoughts
Nick Vigil will almost certainly need to get stronger and work on getting faster as he enters the league, especially considering the increasing demand for highly-athletic linebackers in the NFL. Once he develops this, however, he will be an immediate-impact type of player that will constantly be on the field. His football IQ and instincts are tremendous as are his leadership qualities and work ethic. He is a tough player that will work hard at producing for his team and will instantly become a coaching favorite. Vigil possesses the qualities that could lead to a long and productive career in the NFL.