Scouting The Draft: Lorenzo Mauldin, OLB, Louisville

Introduction

This year we have mainly focused on first round prospects. When you have the #6 overall pick, most first round talents are in play and the options are limitless. However you know we love our middle round guys here at GGN and we need to start looking at players the Jets may be interested in during rounds 2, 3 and 4. I personally think that Lorenzo Mauldin will go a lot higher than many expect, and he could go as early as the middle of the 2nd round, however if he falls into the 3rd, a lot of teams will be interested.

I read Mauldin's story before I ever saw him play, 16 different foster homes growing up, lived in a group home throughout his high school career, often separated from his siblings and struggling to trust anyone, it wasn't the easiest environment for a talent to thrive. However his attitude and character have never been questioned and he's an easy guy to really root for.

Lorenzo was always a defensive end in college, before moving to outside linebacker this off-season. With Charlie Strong leaving for Texas, Mauldin considered his options before electing to stay in Louisville. Under Todd Grantham (Louisville defensive coordinator), Mauldin was moved to accommodate the new 3-4,so he now has experience in both positions, rushing the passer and playing in space.

Measurables

Height: 6'4

Weight: 259lb's

Arms: 33"

Hands: 9 7/8

40: 4.85

Bench: 23

Vertical: 32

Broad: 112

3 Cone: 7.47

20 yard shuttle: 4.58

Statistics

Year	Tackles	For A Loss	Sacks	Forced Fumbles	Pass Defenses	Interceptions
2014	51	13	6.5	1	3	0
2013	40	13	10	3	4	0
2012	22	7	5	1	1	0
2011	6	1	0	0	0	0

Positives

+ High character guy who became the face of the Louisville defense.

+ Very high motor, doesn't give up on any play, gives 100% on every play.

+ Good closing speed when rushing the passer.

+ Excellent body control, uses his arms and hands in pass rush.

+ Very comfortable in space and looks good changing directions.

+ Good tackler in pursuit and sets the edge well.

+ Very tough player who plays through pain and nagging injuries.

+ Good instincts to find the ball in traffic and move to it.

Negatives

- Can go a little wide when trying to turn the corner.

- Doesn't show consistency with using his hands, can be mis-directed by a good punch.

- Needs to play with better pad level

- Does he have the speed and agility to play in space with more agile NFL receivers.

Conclusion

I have to admit to really liking Lorenzo and I'll be pulling for him wherever he lands in the NFL. He's a strong willed character who has a good attitude and a better personality, despite the hand he was dealt growing up. He has a lot of talent, and while he may not be the most fluid or explosive edge rusher, I think a 3-4 team will get production out of him as a 3-4 up linebacker. He'll get to the Quarterback at the NFL level and I wouldn't be against us using a 3rd round selection on Lorenzo to upgrade a position that needs an infusion of young talent.

Draft Grade: 68

90-100 = Exceptional Talent

80-90 = Impact Player

70-80 = NFL Starter

60-70 = Solid NFL Potential

50-60 = Draftable - Lot of work needed

>50 = Undraftable - Long Shot To Stick