Jared Goldwire 2021 NFL Draft Profile

Jared Goldwire 2021 NFL Draft Profile

Arguably the thinnest position group of the 2021 draft class, defensive tackle offers interesting candidates to make the NFL transition. Louisville prospect Jared Goldwire is a name coming up towards the seventh round of the draft. Goldwire is a tall and agile player at the nose tackle spot, and displays bursts of someone much lighter. Producing at a below average level, Goldwire is relying on his size and finesse style to become a professional.

Entering the realm of college football as a three star recruit, Goldwire found some success in 2018, playing in eight games and posting 25 tackles. Little growth carried over into 2019 where he only achieved 22 tackles, four for a loss, and two sacks in 11 games. A last year effort in 2020, Goldwire netted a career high 35 tackles, five for a loss, and two sacks. Production doesn’t pop off the page when looking at Goldwire, being dominated by ACC lineman.

Strengths

Has speed and size for a nose tackle;

Reacts quickly from his stance;

Changes direction fluidly;

Success laterally on line of scrimmage;

Hustle finds him production in run defense.

Weaknesses

Pad level during play causes concern;

Production in college was minimal;

Average strength;

Doesn’t shed majority of blocks;

Lacks a motor to rush passer.

NFL Comparison: Linval Joseph

Projection: Seventh Round, UFA

Bottom Line on Jared Goldwire

The numbers for Goldwire are underwhelming, however, his skill set and size make a case for him finding a backup spot in the NFL. His speed as a nose tackle is great in short bursts. Goldwire shows high IQ awareness at the position. His change of direction is quick for a man of his stature. The Louisville product has a good motor when defending the run and can disrupt plays laterally. If Goldwire tinkers with the technical side of his game, he could see consistent reps on second and third teams.

Even though Goldwire towers at 6’6”, his pad level is an area that needs improvement. Girthy as well, shedding blocks also seems to be a struggle for the former Cardinal. A 5.1 40 yard dash time does little to help his case and he plays faster than the time he posted. Goldwire only put up 20 reps during his bench drill, not displaying NFL type strength that the nose position demands. Guards in the NFL may expose his size and lack of true pursuit.

A common theme for large, fast defenders is a high ceiling and low floor. This epitomizes the selection of Goldwire towards the end of the draft. Length and burst look to be his best angle at getting a shot on a pro roster. Perhaps mastermind Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots see visions of Vince Wilfork reincarnate. A veteran coach could take the Louisville tackle and patch the tactical woes Goldwire has. If someone takes a chance on him, Goldwire will have an occasion to rise to once on an NFL line.

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