Chase Winovich NFL Draft 2019: Scouting Report for New England Patriots' Pick

STRENGTHS

—Athletic, productive senior player who overshadowed Devin Bush and Rashan Gary on a stacked defense.

—Wowed with a 4.59-second 40 time at the combine, as well as a 6.94 three-cone and 4.11 short shuttle; all are in the 90th percentile or higher for edge-rushers in the history of the combine, per Mockdraftable.

—Nonstop motor with awesome aggression, urgency and heart on the field; fantastic in pursuit and active in his pass-rush plan to counter and set up blockers.

—First-step quickness can get blockers on their heels; he counters that move well with a crossface step to attack the inside shoulder.

—Scheme-versatile to play both outside linebacker and defensive end; plays comfortably with his hand in the dirt, but he can also stand up and rush off the edge with easy movements.

—Big hitter who plays with an epic mean streak.

WEAKNESSES

—Has a pass rush-first mentality that limits his patience and awareness in setting the edge against the run.

—Doesn't use his length to keep blockers off his frame.

—Hand play can be disappointing at times as he lets blockers reach him and doesn't get off blocks well once engaged.

—Can be late to read and react to the play and will get baited into the backfield on play action and misdirection. Shoots way upfield at times and lets the play come back under him.

Chase Winovich NFL Draft 2019: Scouting Report, Grade for Patriots Rookie

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OVERALL

Chase Winovich is what every defensive coach would want in terms of character, love of the game and work ethic. He also brings the athleticism needed to play as an outside linebacker or defensive end. There are some concerns about production (was average in 2018, with five sacks), but he has the look of an early contributor and longtime starter.

GRADE: 6.55 (ROUND 2—ROOKIE IMPACT)

PRO COMPARISON: Mike Vrabel