Marquis Haynes NFL Draft 2018: Scouting Report for Carolina Panthers' Pick

POSITIVES

—An athletic, fast, instinctive pass-rusher who can dominate unprepared offensive tackles.

—First step is dangerous and can give him the space he needs to bend and close on the quarterback.

—Work-ethic player who doesn't give up if a blocker gets hands on him.

—Plays with great balance and body control on the move. Can dip and bend.

—Has loose hips and fast feet. Might be able to make a move to a true outside linebacker role.

NEGATIVES

—Undersized (6'2 ⅜", 235 lbs) and may be off teams boards due to his small frame.

—Non-factor in the run game and doesn't have the traits to improve there.

—All upper body with no legs to anchor or produce burst from his stance.

—Might have to change positions to more of an off-ball linebacker to see the field in the NFL.

—Short-armed (33 ¼") and doesn't play with length to keep blockers off his frame. Tries to win with speed only and can run around blockers.

—Has one move: speed.

Marquis Haynes LB NFL Draft

OVERALL

Marquis Haynes has been a productive, impactful defender for Ole Miss but lacks the size and strength to be more than a situational rusher in the NFL unless he makes a position change. In the right scheme he could have an impact on third down thanks to his speed rush, which is why he still carries a Round 5 grade.

GRADE: 5.75 (Round 5)

PRO PLAYER COMPARISON: Dadi Nicolas, Kansas City Chiefs