Duke Ejiofor NFL Draft 2018: Scouting Report for Houston Texans' Pick

Chuck Burton/Associated Press

POSITIVES

—Well-built player (6'3 ⅜", 264 lbs) with fantastic length (34 ⅞").

—Has the power to bull rush, shed blocks and show up in the run game.

—Understands leverage and how to convert power to quickness (and vice versa).

—Holds his edge well and plays assignment football when asked to contain the corner.

—Has a variety of pass-rush moves and shows well-developed plans as a rusher.

NEGATIVES

—Bend and movement in space are below average.

—Instincts and awareness show up as issues, especially in the run game.

—Overall athleticism is lacking and doesn't pop off the tape. Wins with power and not quickness.

—Probably has to move inside as a situational pass-rusher due to lack of speed and twitch.

—Banged up throughout his career and toughness was questioned by scouts.

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OVERALL

Duke Ejiofor is a solid prospect as a rotational defensive lineman but lacks the athleticism to project as more than a depth player. He best fits in a 4-3 scheme like the Atlanta Falcons or San Francisco 49ers that would put him into gaps where he can beat guards and centers but won't be asked to win with speed.

GRADE: 5.90 (Round 4)

PRO PLAYER COMPARISON: Derrick Shelby, Atlanta Falcons