Pass rush: Offers only a minimal pass rush with a marginal burst off the snap. Lacks the agility and straight-line speed to close on the quarterback and turn pressures into sacks. Will become lazy in his fundamentals and even stops moving his feet to just lean on blockers on passing plays.
Run defense: Rarely moved off the line of scrimmage by one offensive lineman and even against double teams is often able to create such a pile in the middle that opponents can't run inside. At his best in short-yardage situations and can create a pile. Can slip off blocks as the ballcarrier goes by to make tackles at the line.
Explosion: Adequate burst off the snap, but has explosive power to knock the offensive lineman back into the pocket.
Strength: Massive defender with rare strength. Rarely moved off the line of scrimmage by one blocker and is often able to hold up against double-teams due to his leg drive and leverage. Capable of knocking back the long-snapper back and getting his hands up to block kicks. Tires easily and quickly loses leverage when he does so.
Tackling: Heavy drag-down tackler and catches most of his tackles by simply sliding off blocks as the back runs by. Lacks agility necessary to break down in space and is therefore forced to lunge at ballcarriers in the open field. Typically pushes his opponent to the ground, rather than wrapping up.
Intangibles: Too heavy to be an every-down player. Used as part of a rotation at Alabama and will have to be used in a similar role in the NFL. Wasn't nearly as effective in the second half of last season, prompting concern about his ability to stay fresh in a 16-game NFL season. Utilized as a fullback in short-yardage situations at times. Intimidating presence in the backfield, but typically is effective in this manner only due to defenders moving out of his way. Rarely gets his hands on the defender and makes a true block.
NFL Comparison: Ted Washington, ex-NFL
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