2021 NFL Draft: Azeez Ojulari Player Profile

Position: Defensive End/EDGE

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 249 pounds

School: Georgia Bulldogs

Azeez Ojulari 2021 NFL Draft Profile

More often than not, players such as Georgia’s Azeez Ojulari are sure-fire bets to come off the board quickly due to their school. But in the case of the former Bulldog, there’s more to his game than just where he comes from. Playing in the SEC against NFL caliber offenses such as Alabama, Ojulari showed that he is more than capable of making an immediate impact at the professional level. Furthermore, he is part of a draft class that is largely considered top-heavy in the pass-rushing department, with him being near the top.

Based out of Marietta, Georgia,  Jones redshirted his first year in Athens and recorded 5.5 sacks. He only played in three games which goes to show that there was potential. As a sophomore, Ojulari had more production. Ojulari earned second-team All-SEC honors after leading the team with 12.5 tackles for loss and compiling 8.5 sacks. By the time he completed his career, Ojulari had racked up 67 tackles, 14 sacks, and three forced fumbles. Against Cincinnati, Ojulari had a breakout performance, leading the team with three sacks en route to a 24-21 win over the upstart Bearcats.

• Aggressive off the line;
• Excellent closing speed;
• Disciplined when recognizing run or pass;
• Tackles at an explosive rate;
• Strong upper body;
• Gets off blocks quickly in pass rush.

• Lacks ability to play in space;
• Can get double-teamed easily at times;
• Can be thrown back if first step is not taken;
• Needs more strength;
• Not suited for playing with hands in the ground.

Azeez Ojulari is a fantastic specimen of a player and will likely enter the starting lineup for the team drafts him, sooner than later. To start his career, however, he will likely be used in only certain situations. However, given his tape and resume, it would also not be a surprise if a team makes him a day one starter. While his performance against Cincinnati was very impressive, the NFL is a completely different ballgame. More often than not, NFL offensive linemen tend to have enormous strength, especially the tackles.

Also, Ojulari will need to improve in the run game. More often than not, the tape shows Ojulari strictly aiming for the quarterback, which is fine. Nevertheless, a deficiency in the run game can be costly. Luckily for him, there are no issues in his pass rush as even when he struggles, the pressure is still caused. Also, he is well-rounded in coverage as he can handle the inside receivers to a certain extent. Versatility is valued these days, and those players often find themselves making teams and seeing playing time over guys that only have one good trait. Should he manage to slip to Day 2, look for a team to package a bundle to jump up in the draft and select Ojulari.