Bronson Kaufusi NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Ravens Rookie

POSITIVES

If NFL draft prospects are like stocks, Bronson Kaufusi is one you buy low now and wait for the big payday down the road. A top-tier athlete with potential as a 4-3 or 3-4 defensive lineman, Kaufusi is just starting to scratch the surface of what he can be.

An explosive, every-down player, Kaufusi has an impressive understanding of hand usage and timing. He’ll put his 34 ½-inch arms to use, stacking up blockers both in the run and passing games. He is agile enough to bend at the hips and explode under a locked-out arm.

Kaufusi plays with the balance and leverage of a seasoned pro. He doesn’t get lazy in his technique and maintains his body lean throughout the play. A former basketball player, Kaufusi has light feet and will surprise blockers with quick changes of direction and enough closing speed to go get the ball in space.

Some teams may like Kaufusi as a strong-side defensive end in a 4-3 set, and others may like what his size and athleticism offer in a 3-4. That versatility is valuable, and the upside Kaufusi brings once he settles into a role is as exciting as the 26.5 sacks he produced at BYU.

NEGATIVES

Going back to his 2014 film, when Kaufusi played defensive end, it’s clear his best position is with his hand in the dirt. Playing in the 280- to 285-pound range is best for his pro career.

In that same vein, Kaufusi is not a player you want in coverage. He has some value in space but only moving forward. Going through positional drills at the Senior Bowl, Kaufusi was awkward and uncoordinated in any coverage drops.

Against the run, Kaufusi could better play to his size. For a heavy defensive end, he surrendered his chest too easily and was often pushed around in the run game. Learning to dig in his heels and anchor—especially against double-teams—will be important if Kaufusi ends up in a 3-4 scheme.

Looking at his frame, Kaufusi could stand to gain more weight and better fill out his lower body. His thin calves are too often seen stretched out and angled as he tries to stand up against run blockers. Like most BYU players, Kaufusi spent two years on a church mission and will be a 24-year-old rookie.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'6"

Weight: 285 lbs.

40 Time: 4.87s

3-Cone: 7.03s

Short Shuttle: 4.25s

PRO COMPARISON: Derek Wolfe, Denver Broncos
FINAL GRADE: 6.50/9.00 (Round 2-3—Future Starter)