Bryan Bresee 2023 NFL Draft Profile

2023 NFL Draft: Bryan Bresee Scouting Report

Bryan Bresee is a stout and athletic defensive tackle from Clemson University. He often plays angry and with a heavy desire to push past opposing offensive tackles on true passing sets. Bresee arrived as the nation’s top recruit in 2020 and started 10 out of 12 games as a true freshman for the Tigers. After an injury-plagued sophomore season, he returned to form in 2022 and was a second-team All-ACC selection. Bresee capped off his college career with 15 tackles, 5.5 for loss with 3.5 sacks, and two pass breakups in 10 games with seven starts. His instincts are top-tier and will serve him well as he transitions to life in the NFL.

Strengths

Broad and athletic build;

Plays very instinctively;

Attacks with smart hand placement;

Takes long and loose strides to displace blocks;

Can withstand double teams and eat space;

Has a good focus on deciphering various schemes;

Maintains run fits on move blocks;

Moving target when rushing internally;

Stutter steps and strikes with an effective pace;

Pocket pusher when getting a good jump.

Weaknesses

College production was lackluster;

Will lose leverage at times;

Limited range;

Often uses linear and unsophisticated rush moves;

Tight hips limit the ability to bend and get around opposing offensive tackles;

Concerning injury history.

NFL Comparison: Ndamukong Suh

Projection: Late Round 1

Bottom Line on Bryan Bresee

Bresee’s build closely resembles an EDGE rusher rather than a DT and this notion might push him up draft boards for defensive needy teams. He has a very quick first step off the snap and excellent bend that could create havoc against sub-par offensive linemen. Bresee also has some versatility to kick outside and play that EDGE if required in a pinch. Against the run, he’s very solid and can be an effective space eater that may require double teams with more reps and NFL coaching. The most impressive aspect of Bresee’s game is his football IQ. He’s very instinctual and can win in a multitude of ways that will help his case in being a three-down player.

The bottom line on Bresee is he’s one of the best defensive tackles in a weak position in the 2023 draft. He has the potential to be a plus starter in the league for many years to come, and the team that takes him should feel grateful.

*Stats and research courtesy of NFL.com and Pro Football Focus (PFF).

Main Photo: Ken Ruinard – USA TODAY Sports