Malik Harrison | LB | Ohio State
Elevator Pitch
Harrison is a hard-hitting enforcer at the linebacker position. He has the size to provide some pass rush abilities as well. A linebacker who can provide some playmaking ability for a defense. He is a player who can get sideline to sideline and get downhill quickly. A true run stopper.
Vitals
Height | 6-3
Weight | 247
Class | Senior
Strengths
Harrison is very quick to fill the gap and get to the running back. He reads the flow very well and then uses his quickness to get downhill and plug the hole. When Harrison arrives, he brings the pop with him. He can close on his target quickly and good taking down runners one on one. Harrison also very good at backside pursuit.
His physicality isn’t just limited to his tackling, Harrison does a good job of shedding blockers in the run and pass game. His length allows him to keep blockers at bay while he tries to get loose and make the play. Does well to navigate through traffic when pursuing the runner.
Malik does provide some pass rush and blitzing from the linebacker spot. Recorded four sacks as a senior for the Buckeyes. Not an every down rusher but situationally he can be very effective with his timing of shooting the gaps.
Weaknesses
His aggressive play style can get him burned at times. He will bite on play action fakes that will leave a vacated spot in the defense when he tries getting downhill too quickly. He doesn’t have the best instincts in coverage so getting him up to speed will be paramount for the defensive staff.
Not a real fluid athlete in space, does well for someone of his size. His recovery speed is average at best when he gets out of position. Deeper drops will cause him fits as he wasn’t asked to do this much for the Buckeyes. He is more of quarterback spy or playing closer to the line of scrimmage.
Projection: Day 2
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