Alex Highsmith 2020 NFL Draft Profile

Alex Highsmith 2020 NFL Draft Profile

Alex Highsmith was nothing short of a standout in his redshirt senior season with the Charlotte 49ers. He seemingly rose from nobody to one of the top eight or so EDGE prospects in the draft out of nowhere. In 2019, Highsmith recorded an astounding 15 sacks in 13 games. He recorded just six total sacks in the prior three seasons combined. Highsmith also set career highs in tackles (75) and tackles for loss (21.5) while also forcing two fumbles.

At Charlotte, Highsmith played some snaps standing up and others with a hand on the ground. He has shown the ability to be either a 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 outside linebacker, but his size seems to make the latter more likely. Highsmith seems like he might be this year’s example of a small school player with a lot of potential climbing up draft boards as the draft nears closer.

Strengths

versatility; can play 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 outside linebacker;

a quick first step, especially when standing up;

high football IQ, not easily sucked in by RPOs – keeps outside contain well;

flashed a very quick and effective inside spin;

variety of pass rush tools; spin, chop, swim, rip;

athleticism/speed makes up for lack of size and power;

showed potential in limited drops into coverage, capable of covering the flats.

Weaknesses

inconsistent pad level – too often stands straight up and makes himself easy to block;

clearly lacks the strength to contribute in the running game;

struggles to get off blocks when engaged – needs to improve hand usage;

effort not always there downfield – has a high motor but only when he wants to;

not productive against the run, likely only a third-down pass rusher for now;

sometimes takes too wide of angles to the quarterback, allowing the tackle to easily take him out of the play.

NFL comparison: Vic Beasley

Projection: Fourth-round pick

Bottom Line

Alex Highsmith is getting a lot of hype as an EDGE prospect, and for good reasons. His football IQ, athleticism, and speed off the edge are all great tools for a prospect to have. Size is the biggest thing holding Highsmith back at this time. Teams who run a 4-3 likely won’t be interested in Highsmith. They would have to bulk him up and by doing that, they’d be running the risk of him losing his speed or lateral quickness.

As a 3-4 OLB, Highsmith will be most comfortable and productive. In his rookie year, his role might be contributing on special teams and playing defense on obvious passing downs. With NFL coaching and competition, it’s safe to assume that he will improve in the running game and get better at shedding blocks. Highsmith has the work ethic, is a high character prospect, and is a smart player. He will soak up knowledge from his coaches and veteran teammates and will likely develop into a well-rounded edge defender as his career progresses.