2018 NFL Draft: Dallas Cowboys 4th round pick Dorance Armstrong Jr, DE

Dorance Armstrong, Kansas

Game Film Evaluated:

Oklahoma (2016)

Texas Tech (2017)

Analysis: Struggles to hold at the POA, he can get engulfed by tackles in the run game. He can use his athleticism to provide containment and force runs back inside. Impressive athleticism and quickness, able to drop the shoulder, bend and turn the corner with speed to the QB. Lacks strength and not capable of knocking lineman off balance, converting speed to power. Average burst off the snap. Not developed pass rush technique, not able to get off blocks once engaged. He does not attempt to set up tackles with counter moves or multiple paths to get to the QB.  He can impressive speed and able to chase down plays from behind. Excellent motor and he will pursue plays outside his area. He flashes good length and able to keep blockers off his body when he uses it.

Summary: Dorance Armstrong has the ideal frame for an OLB in a 3-4 scheme. He brings excellent speed but only average burst off the snap. He needs to improve his strength in games, struggles to convert speed to power or hold the POA when teams run at him. He isn’t able to get his hands into the blocker and drive them back into the pocket. He needs to improve his technique, use his length properly and develop some pass rush moves to get off blocks against better tackles. It was over in college when tackles got their hands on him. He needs to make a position change to be a stand up LB at the next level to give him the best chance. He needs to learn to drop back, get comfortable in space and become adequate in coverage. He has more than enough athleticism to be adequate as an OLB in a 3-4 scheme. He could be a pass rusher in a rotation or subbed in on passing downs early in his career. 4th round grade.