Nice job of extending hands and controlling opponent
Flashes high potential in run support
Sets the edge
Good job of shedding linemen
Strong technician
Plays with solid motor
Scheme versatile
High upside as 5-technique
Weaknesses:
Below-average athleticism
Lacks explosion
Mediocre agility
Uncomfortable in space
Never very dominant – never had any big games
Not much upside
Durability concerns (neck, right knee)
A bit of an overachiever
Summary: I personally was not able to watch Wootton’s junior tape, which I think is critical to the evaluation considering he was fully healthy that year as opposed to his 2009 season coming off his ACL tear. He might have lost some speed and agility. He profiles as a 4-3 left defensive end or a 3-4 5-technique defensive end. Wootton is projected to come off the board in the first three rounds, but I don’t expect him to be much of a pass rusher in the NFL.
Player Comparison: Kenyon Coleman. Coleman is a very good defender against the run with scheme versatility, but is limited in rushing the passer.
Sep 9, 2023; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback LaNorris Sellers (16) passes against the Furman Paladins during the second half at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports
