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Malik Jefferson, Texas: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report

By Jon Dove

Sep 4, 2016; Austin, TX, USA; ATexas Longhorns linebacker Malik Jefferson (46) sacks Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 4, 2016; Austin, TX, USA; ATexas Longhorns linebacker Malik Jefferson (46) sacks Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /
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Texas’ Malik Jefferson is an explosive linebacker prospect who is just scratching the surface of his playmaking ability.

Malik Jefferson’s play as a linebacker is in the mold of what many NFL teams are targeting. He’s a quick-twitch athlete who makes plays all over the field. His overall athleticism allows him to hold up in coverage as well as support the run.

Jefferson utilizes his short-area burst to register tackles for loss and close on the ball carrier. He prefers to work around blocks rather than holding at the point of attack. This has a lot to do with his lack of size and bulk.

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He is someone who can get eaten up by bigger blockers. The fact he tries to work around the blocks does take him out of some plays. If he doesn’t react quick enough his dodging technique tends to open better running lanes.

Jefferson is at his best when he’s able to work in space and purse. He would benefit from a strong defensive line that occupies blockers. This would allow him to use his speed to freely flow to the football.

A lot of his value is tied up in his ability to impact the passing game. Jefferson’s athleticism allows him to hold up in coverage. He shows fluid hips and the ability to run with quicker targets.

Jefferson also shows a ton of promise as a blitzing linebacker. He has excellent snap awareness which helps him shoot through the gap. There is also some potential for him to develop into an edge rusher thanks to his speed and balance.

Overall, this is a linebacker who is makes some high-impact plays thanks to his speed. Jefferson has the potential to be a 4-down linebacker and never have to come off the field. However, he does need to show more toughness at the point of attack.

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