2016 NFL Draft prospect preview: who to watch Friday September 4th 2015
By Jon Dove
Jan 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Baylor Bears defensive end Shawn Oakman (2) celebrates his sack of Michigan State Spartans quarterback Connor Cook (18) during the first half in the 2015 Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Player: Shawn Oakman, Baylor
Position: Defensive End
Game Info: Baylor vs. SMU, Friday September 4th at 7:00pm on ESPN
Baylor’s Shawn Oakman is a physical freak who possesses elite size, quickness and movement skills. He has all the traits evaluators look for in a pass-rushing prospect, but he needs to show more consistency. Proving he can make a major impact each and every week would cement him as a first-round prospect.
Oakman does a great job using his length to keep clean and work his way towards the quarterback. His initial burst off the snap allows him to attack the edge or shoot the gap. He has the potential to be a dominant pass rusher at the next level.
The concern is that Oakman has a tendency to disappear for long stretches making him more of a boom or bust player. He needs to focus on keeping his pads down, using his hands and playing with full effort. Oakman must realize that he can’t succeed just based on this physical talents.
However, this is an elite talent who should be in the first-round mix come April.
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