Christian Wilkins NFL Draft 2019: Scouting Report for Miami Dolphins' Pick

STRENGTHS

—The leader of a talented Clemson defense who was the energetic force binding a defensive line with four draftable prospects—and three potential first-rounders—together.

—High-character, high-IQ player who earned a bachelor's degree in two-and-a-half years at Clemson and was honored for his work off the field with the William V. Campbell Trophy.

—Four-year contributor who was flashy as a freshman and rock-solid by his senior season; high-effort player who will stick to his assignment and not get caught freelancing or taking plays off. Coachable and smart.

—Very productive during his career with 16 sacks and 40.5 tackles for loss.

—At his best shooting gaps and penetrating to get to the quarterback; has the ability to slip past blockers with his quickness and a penchant for getting skinny to go through holes.

—Instinctive player who uses his hands well to frustrate quarterbacks even if he's not making a sack; times his swats well and will bat down passes at the line of scrimmage or eliminate a passing window with his reach.

WEAKNESSES

—Average athleticism limits what he can be on the field. Doesn't shock you with first-step quickness.

—Doesn't have a redirect move and will get stonewalled if he doesn't win with his quickness off the snap.

—Lacks the play power to beat head-up blockers with a bull rush.

—Tape didn't show him beating double-teams with the power and length to split blockers. At times he accepted his role of allowing talented teammates to make plays off his double-teams.

—Solid all-around player who doesn't excel in any one area.

Christian Wilkins NFL Draft 2019: Scouting Report, Grade for Dolphins Rookie

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OVERALL

Wilkins is the type of player every team wants—highly intelligent, a great leader and exceptional worker—but his athletic limitations must be discussed. He's not the type of player to bust, which teams will value, but he's also not going to lead his team in sacks or tackles for loss from a 3-technique position consistently.

GRADE: 6.99 (ROUND 2—ROOKIE STARTER)

PRO COMPARISON: Grady Jarrett