Carl Lawson, EDGE, Auburn: 2017 NFL Draft Scouting Report
By Andrew Kim
NFL Player Comparison: Terrell Suggs (EDGE) – Baltimore Ravens
As a Baltimore Ravens fan, I see a lot of similarities comparing Carl Lawson and Terrell Suggs. If the Ravens do not address pass rusher in Round 1, I would love to get this guy in Round 2 as an understudy for Suggs. These two prolific pass rushers are similar height (Lawson- 6’2″ and Suggs- 6’3″), similar weight (Lawson- 261 lbs. and Suggs- 265 lbs., and similar arm length (Lawson- 31.5 inch and Suggs- 32 inch). Suggs is not the fastest pass rusher but creates pressure with an explosive first step to bend the edge. Lawson ran faster in the 40 yd. dash then Suggs (Lawson- 4.67 sec. and Suggs- 4.84 sec.) and Lawson is much stronger at least on the bench press (Lawson- 35 reps and Suggs- 19 reps). Also, both utilize the bull rush and shed blockers using active hand usage.
Conclusion
While the injuries are scary for a team taking him in Round 1, I would take a chance in Round 2. In conclusion, if he stays relatively healthy in his career and goes to a 3-4 team, Lawson could be the next T. Sizzle in the NFL and be a productive starter in the NFL with the right team. Teams I can see him fitting other than the Ravens in late Round 1 or Round 2 are the Patriots, Steelers, Dolphins, Colts, Cowboys, Panthers, Buccaneers, Lions, Raiders, Titans, Eagles, and Giants.