2016 NFL Draft: early look at Florida’s Jonathan Bullard
By Jon Dove
Florida’s Jonathan Bullard is a versatile defensive line prospect who sees time off the edge and along the interior. He’s able to fill multiple roles because of his combination of size, bulk and quickness. Bullard has some areas that need improvement but he’s a very strong 2016 NFL Draft prospect.
Thanks to his combination of size and athleticism, Bullard is a fit for just about any system but might make the biggest impact as a 5-technique. This position will allow him to play to his strengths such as setting the edge against the run, pushing the pocket and generating some pressure off the edge.
This clip is a good example of Bullard’s ability to play the run with integrity using his awareness and change of direction skills:
The short-area burst that he displays is a key to his success because it allows him to work off blocks and make plays away from his frame. Bullard has shown that he isn’t just a big body who occupies blockers. He has the explosiveness off the ball to shoot the gap and penetrate the pocket.
His disruptive ability should get him some looks by teams searching for a penetrating 3-technique. The below clip shows the type of impact he can have by generating pressure in the face of the quarterback:
He could help his draft stock by working on delivering a better initial jolt to the offensive line. This would allow him to create some space and get his arms extended.
It’s important to note that Bullard is still developing as a player and has yet to reach his full potential. He’d be more of an upside pick rather than a finished product. However, Bullard is more than capable of making a quick impact in the NFL.
Current Draft Position: 2nd Round