Javon Hargrave NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Steelers Rookie

POSITIVES

One of the top small-school players in the 2016 draft class, Javon Hargrave has impressed at every opportunity. A two-time Associated Press All-American at the FCS level, Hargrave posted 29.5 sacks in his last two seasons at South Carolina State. Those numbers—plus his size—will catch the eye of every NFL team.

Hargrave was a factor all week during East-West Shrine practices and then opened eyes as a late add at the Senior Bowl. In both settings, he matched his SC State tape by showing hard-charging, thick legs and quickness that you don’t expect on a 309-pounder. Hargrave wins with constant forward motion—from the snap to the whistle his feet are churning.

As a pass-rusher, Hargrave flashes more moves than expected. He’ll break out a spin move to beat interior blockers and has enough hand strength to knife away the hands of blockers. Those moves are a good foundation to build on. An explosive first step was the catalyst to his production in college and will be his meal ticket in the pros.

NEGATIVES

Hargrave dominated in college, but the MEAC isn’t putting many players into the NFL. His short-armed (32”) frame will also draw critics.

Despite flashing a move or two as a pass-rusher, Hargrave was often bested against the better competition on the all-star game circuit when they were able to counter his quickness off the snap. Blockers were able to win against Hargrave by getting him to go to one side off his initial step, and then they countered him with length that he couldn’t break free from.

Little things, like reading the blocker in front of him, are lost on Hargrave coming out of a smaller school. He was able to consistently beat the man in front of him with athleticism, and that led to a lack of developed tools as a complete player. As it stands now, Hargrave doesn’t anticipate cut blocks or misdirection.

He’s as raw as they come, but big interior pass-rushers are hard to find. The promise of what Hargrave can become will be what gets him drafted in the middle rounds.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'1"

Weight: 309 lbs.

40 Time: 4.93s

3-Cone: 7.90s

Short Shuttle: 4.70s

PRO COMPARISON: Clinton McDonald, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
FINAL GRADE: 5.75/9.00 (Round 4—Backup Caliber)