Friday, March 3, 2017

Carl Lawson Scouting Report:

Written by Christian Lysek

I have said it before and I will say it again: this years EDGE class is stacked.  Take Carl Lawson as proof. To me, he is definitely a first round talent, but the other EDGE talent may push him into the second round. Here's why he earned a first round grade:


Measurables: 
Height- 6'2''
Weight- 253 lbs
Year:
Junior (22)
2016 stat line:
30 tackles (16 solo), 14 TFL, 9.5 sacks, 1 FF

Pros: Carl Lawson has good size for a 3-4 outside linebacker. He doesn't have and elite first step, but it is quick. Against the run, Lawson does a good job of not being pushed off of the line of scrimmage and redirects the route of the runner to areas full of his defensive teammates. Lawson thrives as a pass rusher. He has enough speed to bend the EDGE and he has great strength in his bull rush. Lawson uses his hands and arms to great effectiveness. He swats away the arms of the tackle and is strong enough to grab the tackle and rip them out of the way. He is able to do this not only because he is strong, but also because he understands balance and leverage. If the tackle is off balance even slightly, Lawson will attack and get by to the quarterback.

Cons: Lawson has serious injury questions. Last year was his first full season, and he has torn an ACL and needed hip surgery. Lawson also really need to improve against the run. He struggles to tackle runners because of a lack of instincts and acceleration. He isn't going to catch anybody from behind either. Lawson also needs to learn how to cover if he goes into a 3-4 system like I think he will.

Pro Comparison: Ryan Kerrigan, EDGE, Washington Redskins
Ryan Kerrigan is the best EDGE rusher in the Redskins 3-4 defense. He is very strong and quick with violent hands that understand leverage. Kerrigan is better against the run than Lawson, but if Lawson improves in that aspect, he can be just as good as Kerrigan.

3 teams that could use him: The Steelers are in need of an Edge rushed yet again, and Lawson has the potential to finally fill the gap that has plagued them. Jabaal Sheard and Chris Long are both free agents for the Patriots, and Lawson would be a nice replacement on the defensive line. Rob Marinelli has been making diamonds from turds in Dallas, and it is time for Jerry Jones to give him a real prospect with a clean record. Carl Lawson would be a nice fit for the Cowboys.

Conclusion: Carl Lawson struggles against the run and has an injury history, but he is a great pass rusher and has the tools to be a star in this league. He is a top-40 pick.

All stats from www.sports-reference.com

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