Jared Crick: 5 Traits That Make NFL Draft Prospect an Ideal Pro

Jared Crick represents the type of player that is undervalued but equally important in the grand scheme of things. He might not make the flashy play or accumulate double-digit sacks, that really isn't the point. 

The former Nebraska standout is an all-around talent that fits perfectly into the mold of what some of the best defenses in the National Football League have built over the course of the last few seasons. 

There will not be a lot of buzz surrounding Crick in the week leading up to the draft because he isn't that "sexy" prospect. However, his contributions to the team that selects him are going to be huge. 

This article is going to focus on five traits that make Crick an ideal defensive end at the next level. 

5. Non-Stop Motor

One thing that separates Jared Crick from more mediocre defensive ends is the fact that he brings the heat on a consistent basis. This is part talent, but mostly drive. 

If a player is going to give it all every single play, he is going to succeed more than the player that brings 100 percent just three quarters of the time. It is simple mathematics folks!

Jared Crick will be going just has hard in the fourth quarter as he will be during the very first play of the game. This enables the defense to not have to worry about one side of the defensive line and focus attention in terms of blitzes on the other end of the field. 

We saw the success the San Francisco 49ers had with this in regards to Justin Smith last season. 

4. Leverage and Technique

The embedded photo is a prime example of how Jared Crick uses his strength to gain leverage at the point of contact. Just look at how he is rushing the Ohio State blocker, maintaining leverage and keeping the opponent off-balance. 

He is able to gain that leverage because of pro-ready technique and the ability to stay low at the point of contact. This is something that a large majority of defensive ends tend to struggle with in the National Football League. It goes without saying that Crick will not have the same issue. 

This photo is a perfect representation of how he plays. One still frame and you have a full understanding of what Crick does on a consistent basis. One still frame and this scouting report could be complete without any more words. 

3. Line Flexibility

Jared Crick actually compares favorable to one of the top three defensive players in the entire National Football League, Justin Smith. 

The comparisons are many and they represent just how much value Crick will bring to the team that drafts him. 

He can play both inside and outside, depending on the circumstance of the game and the scheme that the defense plays. Crick is great against the run along the interior of the line and puts consistent pressure on the quarterback on the outside. 

In reality the team that drafts Crick will be getting two different top-tier players. One will be able to be counted on in obvious pass situations, the other will be a solid force against the run. 

Can't get much better than that in terms of value. 

2. Run Stuffing

As I mentioned in the previous slide, Crick is stout against the run. He will not be thrown off the line of scrimmage at the point of contact against interior linemen. Instead, the former Nebraska standout will be able to hold his own and open up gaps for the linebackers to do their business in against the run. 

This is something that rarely shows up on tape, but it is extremely important nonetheless. It is the workman-type mentality and ability that Crick possesses at this point. 

It is also an indication that he would be an ideal fit in a 3-4 defense. Teams like the Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers, Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys, among others, will definitely take a deep look at this aspect of his game. 

1. All Around Game

All the previous slides have led to this one. 

Jared Crick is one of the best all-around front seven defensive players in the entire 2012 draft. He doesn't a glaring weakness against the run or rushing the passer. 

What makes Crick so intriguing as a prospect is the fact that he is nowhere near as good as he will be in one year, two years, or three years. 

This is a prospect that continues to work his butt off to hone his skills, improves on the aspects of his game that are considered weaknesses, and become a much better player for it. 

If you give Crick an entire offseason to learn the nuances of the National Football League, work with coaches and understand the speed of the league, he will be able to come in and make an immediate impact.