In the next part of Rob Rang's series previewing players the Seahawks could take in the 2017 NFL Draft, Rang focuses on Washington defensive tackle Elijah Qualls. Listen to his breakdown of Qualls below plus check out a few highlights!
At the NFL Combine, Qualls measured 6'1 and 313 lbs while running a 5.13 40-yard-dash and posting 33 reps in the Bench Press, a 7.65 second 3-cone-drill and 4.66 20-yard-shuttle.
From NFL.com's player profile...
"STRENGTHS Has broad, thick hips. Possesses low center of gravity and plays with natural leverage. Has ability to control point of attack. Powerful upper body and can land a strong punch that sets a winning leverage point. Former high school fullback with nimble feet and surprising athleticism for his size. Has feet to overcome early reach block and work back into pursuit. Looks to pursue and run through the rib cage of a running back at impact. Two-gap reader with ability to eat space and brace up to double teams. Has ability to stuff wash-down blocks and cuts. Plays with good body control.
WEAKNESSES Body consists of stubby legs, short arms and a very soft middle with excess weight. Can be a little sluggish off the snap against lateral movement. Will get behind early in the rep. More adept at holding ground than making plays. Feet are nimble but hips are stiff. Unable to flip around the edge as pass rusher. Need to see more plays being made against run and pass. Stays glued to blockers for too long. Game lacks consistency of effort and production. Scouts say he has put on bad weight and needs to improve his work ethic.
SOURCES TELL US "I think he's a better three-technique than a nose tackle. He's quick enough to play three, but he's getting too fat and needs to drop down to around 310 to be at his best. If he keeps getting bigger he will have to play nose. He's a run-stuffing interior lineman though and those types of players are a dime a dozen." -- NFC West area scout
NFL COMPARISON Corey Liuget"
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