Michael Bennett 
Ohio State, 3T/DE
Height: 6.2
Weight: 288
Age: N/A
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Athleticism: A-
Excellent athlete for an interior defensive lineman, if he stays on the inside. Quickness flashes in all areas of his game and is often the first defender moving off the football. Is a fluid and agile mover who has the flexibility to dip and change directions. Shows good burst in a straight line. Still questionable as to whether he can hold up athletically on the outside as a defensive end.
Pass Rush: B-
Has the tools to be a very effective pass rush specialist from the inside. Extremely quick off the snap to get initial penetration. Was asked to slant and stunt often, rushing off the edge at times. Has to win with his athletic ability and initial quickness in order to put pressure on the quarterback. Lacks much of a power element as a bull rusher and doesn’t collapse the pocket or win after his initial effort. Too often gears down and waits to get his hands up to bat down passes.
Run Defense: C+
Flashes the ability to shoot gaps and penetrate, but doesn’t make enough of an impact when he does so. Is something of a bull in a china shop and frequently shoots through gaps only to fall to the ground. Gets sucked into trap plays and will take on blocks with the wrong shoulder. Gets controlled and steered by blockers too easily and is overwhelmed in short yardage situations. Is able to reach off of blocks and pull runningbacks to the ground. Might perform better setting the edge as a defensive end.
Technique: C+
Has very active hands that are constantly working to disengage and has flashes of violence. Lacks the upper body power and hand strength to effectively disengage. Leans into blockers. Will get good initial leverage, but pads will rise during the play and when he tires. Needs to play with better balance and will wind up on the ground too often.
Intangibles: C
Has experience playing from every technique along the defensive line and offers some versatility. Instincts are lacking and needs to keep his head up when taking on blocks. Motor can be inconsistent. Doesn’t hustle in pursuit, but has good range if he would. Flaked out of attending the Senior Bowl.
Red Flags: Size
Bottom Line: An undersized and athletic defensive lineman, Michael Bennett has the ability to play almost anywhere along the line, but where he fits best in the NFL isn’t exactly certain. Bennett has marginal size to play on the interior and is just lacking in athletic ability to assuredly profile as a defensive end in either defensive front. As such, Bennett should invite consideration from most of the league’s teams on draft day and could develop into a solid to low-end starter.
Comparison: Christian Ballard
Grade: 8.2 (3rd Round)
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