By Charlie Campbell
Weaknesses:
Summary: Over the past two seasons, Anudike-Uzomah was one of the most steady pass rushers in college football. He broke out for the Wildcats in 2021, recording 11 sacks, six forced fumbles and 52 tackles. He stayed consistent in 2022, putting up 8.5 sacks, 46 tackles, a pass batted and two forced fumbles.
In the pass rush, Anudike-Uzomah is a hard-charging edge defender who doesn’t quit. He is not overly fast or strong, but he has a knack for fighting through blocks while possessing enough quickness to make him a threat to turn the corner. He has some strength and is able to use his hands and feet at the time to shed blocks. Frequently, Anudike-Uzomah is initially blocked, but through his second effort, he is able to make things happen for his defense. He is the epitome of a try-hard guy who gets achieves sacks off not quitting. Anudike-Uzomah is not a speed demon off the edge, and he does not have the size or strength to overpower tackles. Thus, his collegiate sack numbers probably won’t be duplicated in the NFL.
Anudike-Uzomah is at his best in run defense when trying to cause havoc in the backfield by pushing through the line. He is going to have problems taking on pro offensive lines and holding his gap in downhill runs coming straight at him because he is undersized for defending the run in the NFL. He gives a great effort and plays tough, but his natural size presents limitations as a run stopper at the pro level.
Anudike-Uzomah is an undersized edge defender, and as a result his best fit would be as a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL. For a 4-3 defense, he would have to move rotate with a run-stuffing defensive end. Playing in a 3-4, where he would have a five-technique to help occupy offensive tackles, could be the best way for Anudike-Uzomah to be an every-down player. Anudike-Uzomah has a high motor and finds ways to win, so he could be an overachiever in the NFL.
Anudike-Uzomah could get second-day consideration in the 2023 NFL Draft and should be a mid-rounder. Some sources said they feel he could be a quality Day 2 pick.
Player Comparison: Lamarr Woodley. Anudike-Uzomah reminds me of a poor man’s Woodley. Woodley (6-2, 265) was similar size, but had more speed and athleticism than Anudike-Uzomah. Thus, Woodley was a second-round pick while Anudike-Uzomah might be a mid-rounder.
RELATED LINKS:
2023 NFL Mock Draft: Charlie’s | Walt’s
2023 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings
2023 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
NFL Picks - Dec. 5
2025 NFL Mock Draft - Dec. 4
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