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2017 NFL Draft: Louisville Devonte Fields Scouting Report

By Jon Dove

Dec 30, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Texas A&M Aggies quarterback Jake Hubenak (7) is sacked by Louisville Cardinals linebacker Devonte Fields (92) during the first half in the 2015 Music City Bowl at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Texas A&M Aggies quarterback Jake Hubenak (7) is sacked by Louisville Cardinals linebacker Devonte Fields (92) during the first half in the 2015 Music City Bowl at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /
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Louisville’s Devonte Fields is one of the more well-known pass rushing prospects eligible for the 2017 NFL Draft.

Devonte Fields has had an interesting college career where he went from staring at TCU, to removed from the team and now back in the spotlight at Louisville. He has been highly productive throughout his career especially when it comes to generating pressure on the quarterback.

Fields uses a combination of speed and suddenness to work his way into the backfield. He’s capable of gaining the edge and closing on the quarterback. However, it’s his change of direction and lateral quickness that gives him the best chance to succeed.

He’s aware enough to notice when the offensive tackle is more focused on protecting against his and then counter inside. Fields is an overall balanced player which helps with the change of direction and ability to flatten around the edge.

Louisville has also moved him around the field giving him opportunities in coverage and blitzing from the interior. Despite some experience in coverage, Fields lacks great awareness and overall feel. His overall value is obviously greater as a pass rusher.

His pass rush ability may hit some snags when it comes to translating to the NFL. Fields lacks the ideal size, length and bulk most evaluators look for in the position.

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He’s not going to be someone who fits as a traditional defensive end and is looking at a move to outside linebacker.

Fields needs to work on becoming a more consistent and tenacious player. He doesn’t always play at his top speed which limits his overall impact. This is especially noticeable when closing the back door against the run.

His run support is solid thanks to the powerful jolt he can deliver off the snap. He also shows a commitment to keep his pads down and maintaining leverage.

The talent is present for Fields to be an effective NFL player. However, he’ll need to show better effort and focus if he wants to overcome his lack of size.

Current Draft Status: Late 2nd Round

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