Ranking the Top 15 Edge Rusher Prospects in the 2015 NFL Draft

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7. Lorenzo Mauldin IV, 6’4, 259, Louisville

Mauldin’s a guy that I was very impressed by who hasn’t gotten as much respect from the entirety of the draft community. he worked as a 3-4 outside linebacker during 2014, though he had played as a 4-3 defensive end while Charlie Strong was at Louisville. His body probably projects better to sticking at linebacker, though he has the physical versatility to fit at either position.

He’s got quick burst off the good snap and quality closing speed, and he effectively uses a variety of pass rush moves. He plays with a low center of gravity and does a good job of quickly and effectively collapsing the pocket. Once he sets his eyes on his target and develops a head of steam, he’s highly difficult to stop.

Mauldin’s greatest area for improvement will be as a run defender, particularly if he ends up playing linebacker in a 3-4. He needs to become more disciplined in that aspect of the game and break contain less frequently. He has the skill set to be successful defending the run, but he just did not completely put it together as a collegiate athlete.
Based on the lack of momentum that he’s built through the lead-up to the draft process, Mauldin probably won’t be a first-rounder, but he’ll provide a very good value for a team that picks him up on Day 2.

Next: 6. Za'Darius Smith