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Noah Spence, DE, Eastern Kentucky: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report

By Eric Robinson

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Jan 28, 2016; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad quarterback Dak Prescott of Mississippi State (15) avoids the pressure of defensive end Noah Spence of Eastern Kentucky (97) during Senior Bowl practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 28, 2016; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad quarterback Dak Prescott of Mississippi State (15) avoids the pressure of defensive end Noah Spence of Eastern Kentucky (97) during Senior Bowl practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports /

When Noah Spence watches horror movies, he yawns. Constantly.

At least that’s the understanding that occurs as Spence haunts quarterbacks play after play after play when watching his film. If you’re not aware of the talent or the story of Spence, allow me to bring you up to speed. Spence entered the Ohio State football program back in 2012 but it wasn’t until 2013 were Spence first made a true impact to the tune of 50 total tackles and eight sacks on the season.

Soon after the conclusion of the regular season, he was suspended for what began as three games. Those three games turn into indefinitely, which turn into a transfer to Eastern Kentucky. That would help turn into Spence being a potential top 10 pick. Why you ask? Let’s dive into his scouting report as I explain.

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DE Noah Spence, Eastern Kentucky

Height: 6’3

Weight: 260 lbs

Strengths: Spence has a solid, muscular frame with room to add a few more pounds….His single season at Eastern Kentucky produced 11.5 sacks along with 22.5 tackles for loss…..Presents versatility as he can rush from a two point stance, three point stance, as well as standing……Aggressive at the point of attack…..Borderline flawless ability to convert speed to power….Strong enough to bull rush but also uses rip, swim, and pure speed techniques to apply pressure….Consistent motor; chases run plays from the backside….Showcases speed off the edge when lined up at left & right defensive end….Solid burst out of his stance at the snap….Maintains awareness to elude cut blocks as well as RBs & TEs who’s priority is to chip….Studies opponent and knows how to attack the linemen across from him….Fluidity in his bend around the edge.

Weaknesses: With his stand-up ability, 3-4 OLB role is in question as he hasn’t shown his effectiveness in dropping in coverage….Not a lot of arm length….6’3 height may turn off some teams….Tends to not use his hands consistently…Can be jumpy and undisciplined against QBs who uses a hard count…..Failed drug tests in 2013 and 2014 as well as arrested in May of 2015 for alcohol intoxication and disorderly conduct.

Bottom line: It’s amazing what events such as the Senior Bowl or the Combine can do to a player. In some cases, a player can go from being possibly undrafted to being a possible mid-rounder. In the case of Spence, Senior Bowl week launched him into a possible top ten selection. However, it’s justifiable. Spence is talented. The film solidifies that statement.

The opportunity to make a splash in front of NFL GMs and coaches was fully taken advantage of by Spence. We all know of his skeletons and trust me, they are hard to ignore. If Spence is truly on the straight and narrow path, double-digit sack totals could become a normalcy for the solid pass-rusher.

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