Derick Hall NFL Draft Overview
Position: EDGE
Height: 6’-3”
Weight: 251 pounds
School: Auburn
2023 NFL Draft: Derick Hall Scouting Report
It is not easy to be “under the radar” when you play in the SEC at Auburn, but that is where EDGE rusher Derick Hall finds himself heading into the NFL Draft. As a four-star recruit, the Tiger defensive end made a splash early and often. In 2021 and 2022 alone, Hall would all but set the pace in the conference with his production behind the line of scrimmage.
2021 would prove to be his breakout season. Hall would post nine sacks, 12.5 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles in a career-best year. He continued that pace with 6.5 sacks, 11.5 TFLs, one interception, and two additional forced fumbles. The NFL Combine allowed the opportunity for the Auburn standout to show his athleticism by running a 4.55 40-yard dash. Hall would register a 33.5″ vertical jump and a 10’7″ broad jump that was close to the 97th percentile.
Strengths
- Athletic and explosive at the snap is his calling card;
- Able to sustain and drive through power rushes with quick, steady leg drive upon making contact;
- Strong run defender and pass rusher;
- Has a nose for the ball and knows when to drop back into zone coverage;
- Great length and strong frame in rush defense;
- A high-motor rusher who consistently works through contact and seeks out the quarterback.
Weaknesses
- Lack of desire to show energy if the play is not on his side of field;
- Play recognition on options can be inconsistent;
- Poor habit of playing upright, allowing players to get advantage on leverage;
- Inconsistent tackler;
- His bend around the edge lacks athletic flexibility.
NFL Comparison: Emmanuel Ogbah
Team Fit: Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, Baltimore Ravens
Projection: 6th – 7th round
Bottom Line on Derick Hall
Derick Hall did not have the benefit of playing in a consistent program at Auburn. Coaching changes did not help nor allow the defensive end to flourish with a message that did not change. However, consistent 2021 and 2022 seasons as well as a solid showing at the NFL Combine will help. There is much more upside with Hall and being part of a defensive room with solid coaching at his next stop could allow him to flourish. Derrick Hall will make a team and be a contributor early in his career. Whether he is selected in the late first or early first round, this Auburn Tiger will be another solid player from the SEC.
Main Photo: Kirby Lee – USA Today Sports
