Darron Lee, LB, Ohio State: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report
By Erik Lambert
Fast linebackers are becoming all the rage in pro football, so it’s no surprise Darron Lee is getting some attention out of Ohio State. Does this bode well for him? Here’s what his 2016 NFL draft stock has to say.
Position: LB
School: Ohio State
Year: Sophomore
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 235 lbs
History:
A native of Tennessee, Lee ended up going to high school in Ohio where he played multiple positions including quarterback and safety. With his help his team reached the state semifinals. He committed to Ohio State where he eventually switched to linebacker and became a starter in 2014. Scouts really began to take notice of him during the national championship a year ago when he won MVP with seven tackles and two sacks.
STRENGTHS:
- Athleticism isn’t a problem. Lee moves with ease, both forwards and backwards and he doesn’t lack for speed.
- Shows good discipline. Doesn’t bite on fakes very often, sticking to his assignments.
- Uses his arms and hands well to keep blockers off of him so he can shed and make the tackle.
Though he doesn’t make the tackle, this play illustrates how good Lee can be around the line of scrimmage. Despite a big guard getting the initial block on him, Lee uses his arms and hands to break away and almost makes the stop for no gain. Given how much bigger the offensive lineman is, that’s not an easy thing to do.
- When allowed to be aggressive, it shows. He can shoot into the backfield to make tackles for a loss or get to the quarterback as well.
WEAKNESSES:
- Doesn’t show the greatest aggression or instinct. Often can lose track of ball carriers and they get right past him.
The instinct question shows up here. Lee shows his agility by bailing into coverage and he drops right into the perfect spot. If he remains aware of what the quarterback was going with the football he could’ve easily made the interception and perhaps returned it for a touchdown. Instead he loses track and by the time he reacquires the football, it’s too late and completed for a 1st down.
- While he has the capability to tackle well, he doesn’t do it consistently, often not using proper technique with his arms, allowing ball carriers to bounce off him.
- Motor doesn’t seem to run hot all the time. Caught on tape running at lower gears too often. Doesn’t show that all-out mentality.
Pro Comparison: Jonathan Bostic
In terms of physical ability, Lee has the tools just like the former Chicago Bears 2nd round pick did. However, with Bostic it became apparent early on he lacked a certain degree of awareness necessary. He made plays from time to time, but was often a step late to several others. Lee shows those same qualities that could become a problem when the game gets faster in the NFL.
Projection: 3rd to 4th rounds
Due to his athletic prowess and speed, it’s likely that he could go as early as the end of the 1st round. The tape doesn’t lie though. Darron Lee has high potential, but was his production the side effect of playing on a ridiculously talented defense? Time will tell.