3-4 Defensive End/Defensive End

Northwestern

6-6 272

40 time: 4.92

Draft board overall prospect rank: #99

Draft board 3-4 defensive end rank: #10

Overall rating: 70*

            4/7/10: Corey Wootton is starting to look like a bit of a one year wonder. His 10 sacks in 2008 were impressive in the Big 10. He would have been a 2^nd round if he had come out last year, but he really struggled this year after a “minor” knee surgery. He never looked right this year. He lacked explosiveness, he lacked drive, and he only had 4 sacks. His athleticism is very strong he offers good scheme versatility playing everything from a 3-4 end to a 4-3 end to, possibly, a 4-3 under tackle. He has long arms and he’s above average against the run, though that could be expected at his size. I think he’s best off as a 3-4 end where he can hold down the line against the run and also provide a bit of a pass rush, rather than a 4-3 end where he would provide below average pass rush, but also provide something against the run. However, for a 3-4 end, he’s a bit undersized and would need to bulk up. The 3 man line in the NFL requires brute strength rather than just strong run stopper. He’ll need to frustrate blockers and tie up multiple blockers, which is not something he’ll do well. He has a bunch of durability concerns and has below average speed. He’s not very fluid and doesn’t use his long arms quite to their full potential, especially when it comes to breaking up passes. He’ll come off in the first 3 rounds, but he won’t be a star as some people are calling him.  

NFL Comparison: Tyler Brayton

*=For a breakdown of what this means, click here