2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Cameron Heyward

Strengths:
  • Prototypical size for 5-technique
  • Has length with strong musculature
  • Strong at point of attack
  • Sets the edge in the run game
  • Heavy hands
  • Gets terrific arm extension to control linemen
  • Flashes dominance
  • Shows ability to take on double teams
  • Tends to stay low to ground
  • Good instincts; sniffs plays out and disrupts
  • Tons of experience at multiple positions on DL (DT, DE, 5-tech)
  • Strong work ethic
  • Nice initial pop
  • Powerful



    Weaknesses:
  • Highly inconsistent and can take some games off (not plays – whole games)
  • Doesn’t always play as big as he is
  • Soft
  • Motor runs hot and cold
  • Not a fluid athlete; a little stiff
  • Average speed
  • Lacks a pass rush repertoire
  • Doesn’t make much of an impact rushing the quarterback
  • Below average production

    Summary: I don’t think a player’s stock has fallen on my board over the summer more than Heyward’s. I went into the summer expecting to see a first-round pick on tape, and instead I now see a second-rounder. He gets dominated by inferior competition and should be more dominant on a more consistent basis when you factor in his size, strength and talent.

    Heyward’s best fit by far at the next level is the 5-technique position (3-4 DE), and I just don’t see him being an impact pass rusher at 4-3 left defensive end. Heyward needs to step up in his senior year if he wants to be a top 25 pick. As I mentioned previously, Heyward is starting the 2011 season with a second-round grade on my board.

    Player Comparison: Kenyon Coleman. Coleman is a strong player against the run for the Browns, but he’s a little inconsistent and doesn’t offer much in terms of a pass rush.





    RELATED LINKS:


    2011 NFL Mock Draft: Matt’s | Walt’s


    2011 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings


    2011 NFL Draft Scouting Reports








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