Overview
Position: Defensive End
Height: 6’7″
Weight: 285 lbs
School: Brigham Young Cougars
Bronson Kaufusi 2016 NFL Draft Profile
The Provo, Utah native and alumnus of Timpview High School, Kaufusi was a stand out on both the gridiorn and hardwood for the Thunderbirds.
Kaufusi made his mark as a junior in 2008, recording 70 tackles, nine sacks, and forcing a absurd 23 fumbles. He seemed poised to continue his success the following year and was invited to participate in the 2010 Under Armor All-American Game, but an ACL injury would end his senior season.
Kaufusi wouldn’t see the football field for another three years; one year for recovery from his ACL injury, and another two years while he performed his Mormon mission in Auckland, New Zealand.
In 2012, he would return to Provo as a member of both the BYU football and basketball team. He would appear in all 13 games at defensive end for the Cougars, earning his first letter with 23 tackles and 4.5 sacks on the season.
Kaufusi’s notoriety would grow throughout his college career for the Cougars. He would earn recognition to several All-Independent first teams his junior year while leading the team in sacks with seven on the year. His rising star was evident at the start of the 2015 season as Kaufusi would be named to the Nagurski Trophy and Bednarik Award watchlist to begin the season.
Before leaving Provo, Kaufusi left his mark in the Cougars record books. His 26.5 career sacks are second all-time and his 44 tackles for a loss rank third all-time.
Strengths
- Discipline and pedigree that one expects from a coach’s son (father Steve is the defensive line coach at BYU).
- Prototypical size for the position.
- Consistent production throughout his college career.
- Athletic versatiliy to play down in a 4-3 or standing up in a 3-4.
Weaknesses
- Struggles to change direction in coverage.
- Height can be a liability, plays to high.
- An older prospect having graduated high school in 2010; Teams may shy away due to longevity concerns.
NFL Comparison: Denico Autry, Oakland Raiders
Teams with need at position: Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, Buffalo Bills, Tennessee Titans, Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, Washington Redskins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons
Projection: Third round
Bottom Line
Bronson Kaufusi is considered by some to still be a work in progress at the defensive end position. His versatility and motor make him an ideal edge rusher for teams looking to add depth or for situational purposes. Kaufusi is well aware of his weaknesses and has shown a willingness to improve, coachability that will benefit him in his NFL career.
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