Raiders scouting report: Michigan LB Josh Uche

Sacks are a premium in today’s NFL, and the Las Vegas Raiders have lacked in that area the last two years. With only 46 sacks the past two seasons, the Raiders need players who can create pressure on the quarterback. The Raiders added a few players …

Sacks are a premium in today’s NFL, and the Las Vegas Raiders have lacked in that area the last two years. With only 46 sacks the past two seasons, the Raiders need players who can create pressure on the quarterback.

The Raiders added a few players in free agency to help out with this area. The possibility of this still being an area where they can add in the draft is always an option. One player who stands out is Josh Uche, a linebacker from the University of Michigan.

Uche played 39 games from the Wolverines with 9 career starts. This past season was his best accumulating 8.5 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss. Uche played limited snaps with Michigan being on the field 40% of the time. But was able to be disruptive when he was on the field. Uche was number one in pass rush run rate the last two seasons, according to PFF.

After a dominant performance at the senior bowl, Uche is starting to rise up draft boards as we speak. What does he bring to the table? I decided to take a look.

Pros: Use of hands

Uche is a very advanced technique-wise and is very well-coached. His ability to use his hands is the perfect example of this. With him being undersized, Uche can gain leverage and use his play strength to help him win at the point of attack.

Uche always has his hands in the perfect spot playing against the run and rushing the passer. This allows him to bull rush guards and into the backfield and shed them in the run game to create tackles for loss. It will enable him to play bigger than his size.

When you have hands like Uche, it always allows you to win against offensive lineman and control at the point of attack. It’s an essential trait for linebackers and defensive lineman, and Uche checks that box.

Pros: Pass rush ability

With the NFL being a passing league, the importance of a dynamic pass rusher is of Uber importance. Adding a play that can consistently get the passer can change a whole defense. Uche’s leading talent that will take him to the next level is his pass-rush ability.

Uche is dynamic with his upfield burst and gets off the ball quickly. He does an excellent job of creating speed to power, allowing him to bull rush at a high level. He also displays the quickness to beat tackles with a speed rush to the outside with a great cross chop to rip he has at his disposal.

Uche made offensive lineman look silly to at the senior bowl in one on one sessions which helps you believe he can translate his talent to the next level. He will provide help there day one in specific packages.

Pros: Versatility

Versatility in today’s NFL is paramount and helps players have long periods of longevity. Uche is one of the most versatile plays in this draft and can play will or sam linebacker on early downs and play defensive end on passing downs.

Uche can also play well against the run as an off linebacker. He read and diagnosis with the best of them and can shed blocks at a high level with his violent hands. He consistently makes defensive stops while on the field and sets the tone as a defender coming downhill with sure tackling ability.

When you have the versatility of Uche, it adds value to you as a player who can stay on the field for three downs. The former Michigan linebacker checks all those boxes and will bring this to the NFL.

Cons: Coverage

Being a linebacker in today’s NFL is about playing coverage as well as playing the run. The best linebackers in the NFL can do both allowing them to stay on field. Uche hasn’t displayed the ability to cover on film and gives concern as a full-time linebacker.

Uche, while athletic for an edge rusher, can be stiff when breaking on the football when tight ends or slot receivers run their routes. He is not fluid in his hip movement and doesn’t have the change of direction you would want from a starting linebacker in the NFL.

When you can’t cover as a linebacker, a team will attack you throughout the game. Uche does ok when he gets his hands on you, but when it comes to guarding in space, he’s in trouble.

Cons: Pass Rush Plan

Having a foray of pass rush moves and counters is vital to be a great edge rusher at the next level. Uche has to add more pass rush moves and counters to his repertoire to become an elite edge in pro football.

Uche depends on the bull rush and the speed rush to the outside. You rarely see spin moves, swims, or arm overs to beat offensive tackles and guards. When you become predictable in the NFL, the good offensive line will be prepared to deal with your moves. You won’t be able to disrupt the game as a pass rusher.

The good thing about this is that with Uche, he can definitely learn these new moves with hard work and coaching. With competitive toughness, he displays on the field. I expect Uche to learn these moves and become great when he matures into an NFL player.

Fit with the Raiders

Uche fit with the Raiders would be interesting because he has to get stronger to be a DE in the Paul Guenther system. However, he can come in and bring depth right away for this defense if they can scoop him up Day 2 with his versatility. If Corey Littleton goes down, Uche could play linebacker on early downs and be productive.

The Raiders need pass rush help regardless of where he fits, and Uche can get to the passer. He could blitz as well with his ability to turn speed into power and cause disruption wherever he lines up. If the Raiders trade back and gain more picks or if Uche falls to No. 80, he could be a player the Raiders add who helps the defense right away.