2018 NFL Mock Draft: Opening Weekend Edition
By Jon Dove
31. Green Bay Packers- Josh Sweat, Edge, Florida State
Florida State’s Josh Sweat is quickly becoming one of the better defensive prospects eligible for the 2018 NFL Draft. He is someone who flashes the ability to be an elite pass rusher at the next level. Sweat features a combination of size, quickness and effort.
This isn’t just a speed rusher as Sweat plays the game with good physicality. He routinely explodes off the line of scrimmage and looks to deliver a powerful punch. That punch provides Sweat with room to operate.
He is committed to gaining inside hands which helps him control the action. Sweat’s proper use of leverage helps him utilize an effective bull rush.
However, he also has the explosiveness and speed needed to attack the edge. His balance and pad level give him the ability to flatten around the edge once he gets off the ball. He is still developing as a pass rusher, but has the base of a top-notch pass rusher.
The Green Bay Packers still rely heavily on Clay Matthews as their primary pass rusher. However, he is starting to show signs of aging and has often been asked to play some inside linebacker. It would make sense for the Packers to target a younger pass rusher in the upcoming draft.