Mario Edwards Jr.
Florida State, 5T/3T
Height: 6.3
Weight: 294
Age: 21
Check out all of The War Room content
Athleticism: C+
Athletic ability is certainly above average for someone his size, having played from a two-point stance, on the edge with his hand in the dirt, and inside as a defensive tackle on occasion. Initial quickness is inconsistent and hindered by his ability to time the snap. A big body who doesn’t move well laterally or with great closing burst. Showed the ability to spot drop, which is an intriguing tool for teams employing zone blitz concepts.
Pass Rush: C
Has a slow step off the ball more often than not and is not much of a threat off the edge as a result. Relies on a bull rush that all too often fails to get going. Shows flashes of explosive power when he times the snap well, showing the pop to knock first-rate linemen backwards. Has long arms and gets hands up into passing windows with frequency. Lacks the athletic ability to remain on the edge in pass rushing situations. Could greatly improve with better technique and more well-trained eyes and instincts.
Run Defense: B
Huge frame for a defensive end, and good for a defensive tackle with the ability to play the run inside and outside. Shows a very good anchor and is difficult to move off the ball. Will stack the line, but has trouble shedding and too often will let the ballcarrier go through his gap. Lacks the explosive ability and burst to shoot gaps and disrupt plays in the backfield. Shows very good balance and protects his lower body well from cut blocks.
Technique: C
Comes off the ball too high, and opposing linemen have too easy of a time getting under his pads. Can get washed out easily when double-teamed when pad level is poor. Has the arms, but needs to better polish his hand technique in order to better utilize this gift. Has trouble breaking down to make tackles in space, getting easily turned around and out of position by shifty ballcarriers.
Intangibles: C+
Played an impressive amount of snaps for a defensive linemen, particularly for one over 290 pounds. Hustle on run pursuit was less than ideal, but explainable given his workload. Very good stamina and an adequate motor. A two year starter who saw the starting lineup late as a true freshman, and still has room to improve his ability to process the game and anticipate the snap.
Red Flags: Project
Bottom Line: A highly scheme and position versatile player, Mario Edwards Jr. might not be a first round pick like some had imagined at the start of the season, but certainly displays the tools worth developing on an NFL roster. Edwards best fit is likely as a defensive end in a 3-4 defense, but could invite interest from 4-3 teams looking for a three technique or run-stuffing left defensive end.
Comparison: Allen Bailey
Grade: 8.3 (3rd Round)
Thank you for reading. Follow me on Twitter – @LWOS_Sibo. Support LWOS by following us on Twitter – @LastWordOnSport and @LWOSworld – and “liking” our Facebook page.
Have you tuned into Last Word On Sports Radio? LWOS is pleased to bring you 24/7 sports radio to your PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone. What are you waiting for?
Main Photo:
