Scouting Report
If you
enjoy violent collisions you might be a NASCAR fan. Or you might also be a fan
of Rey Maualuga. He is truly an imposing combination of size and power with
surprising speed to go along with it. He seems to have no regard for his own
body, and it shows in his ability to get to the ball no matter what it takes. To top it off he finishes with a suddenness rarely seen. His coverage ability is a little
limited and he could end up a 2 down backer early in his career. He's
coachable though and when an NFL team looks at just how dominant he can be on the
field, especially against the run and rushing the passer, they will be willing
to accept he's going to need some polish in the NFL.
Draft Status
If I were an
NFL GM in need of a LB, I'd draft Maulauga anywhere in the top ten without hesitation. You have to wonder though if the position he plays will push
him down some in the first round. Also some teams are a little iffy as to where
to play Maualuga. Is he a 4-3 MLB? Can be play inside in a 3-4, or even outside
as a rush specialist? Some teams even think of him as a 4-3 DE. What position he
shakes out at will dictate how high he goes.
Final analysis
03/31
Update - I still think Maualuga is going to be an amazing pro. He does have
some injury concerns which could push him down some and Aaron Curry has
certainly separated himself from the rest of the pack but all in all, Rey is still a mid first round lock and probably an opening weekend starter.
Reminds me of: Ray
Lewis
Great package of size, speed and power. Seems to be able to make plays
all over the field with bone jarring impacts. Not saying he's the leader Lewis
is now or as complete a player, but Lewis wasn't that player as a rookie
either.
Red Flags:
Scouting Report written by Curtis Popejoy |
