With the 43rd pick the Detroit Lions Select...
Jachai Polite, Edge, Florida
Run Defense - Has impressive moments knifing through gaps and getting into the backfield. Highly effective backside defender to chase plays down. Lacks the mass and length to consistently set the edge and squeeze gaps. Gets bounced around in the trenches when tasked with exchanging power with offensive lineman.
Pass Rush - Generates pressure with explosive burst up the arc, twitch and flexibility. Slippery when working around the edge and does well to reduce his surface area. Not only a speed rusher and mixes in a variety of counters. Does well to set up his rush effectively with good vision and footwork.
Burst - Has dynamic speed up the arc and offensive tackles will be challenged to keep pace with him. Does have some recoil from a two-point stance that needs to be cleaned up. Steps two and three are a blur. Closes down distances rapidly.
Effort - No concerns here. Plays hard on every snap although it is helpful that he rotated quite a bit. Chases down plays from distance and his secondary effort is outstanding as well.
Hand Technique - Hands are active but his lack of length presents challenges keeping his pads clean. Has technique to disengage but blockers are able to crowd his frame and he must work overtime to get free. Does not consistently use his extension.
Flexibility - Has excellent flexibility to quickly change directions. Able to bend the edge track and corner. Loose in the shoulders and torso to reduce his surface area and get skinny through gaps. Sudden and twitched up. Fluid mover in space.
Processing - Plays with good feel and understands blocking schemes. Reads the blockers set well and attacks effectively. Is guilty of working too far up the field and will sell out at times. Sees through blocks and does well to find the football. Knows how the strip the football.
Play Strength - Wins more with finesse than physicality but isn't afraid to exchange power in the trenches although he lacks the mass and strength to consistently hold up. Doesn't convert speed to power well and requires soft edges to take advantage of his flexibility to bend the edge track because he lacks the strength to press the angle. Contact balance is below average.
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@Dieter the Brock is on the Clock
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