Maurice Hurst, Michigan: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
Michigan’s Maurice Hurst is a disruptive defensive tackle prospect whose draft stock has been on a steady rise.
Maurice Hurst is an explosive and quick defensive line prospect. He uses his excellent initial burst and snap awareness to work his way into the backfield. Hurst also uses this quick 1st step to initiate contact with the offensive line.
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His quickness and ability to shoot the gap is his best attribute. He has the skill set evaluators look for in a 3-technique defensive tackle. Hurst also features a smaller build which we’ve seen in high draft picks like Sheldon Rankins and Aaron Donald.
The lack of length and overall bulk is a minor concern. There will be times where the bigger more physical offensive lineman in the NFL can control his movements. Hurst has also shown some issues locating the ball carrier based on his inability to see over the blocker.
However, his ability to work his way into the backfield and disrupt the timing of the offense overshadows his size concerns. Hurst features quick and violent hands which help him keep blockers of his frame. This allows him to slip past blocks on his way to the ball carrier.
Hurst is also a very heady player who quickly identifies screens and developing plays. He plays with a non-stop motor and can often be found chasing the ball several yards down field.
NFL defenses are always looking for defenders capable of making impact plays. Hurst is someone who will get after the quarterback and generate tackles for loss. These types of plays are game changing and exactly what defensive coordinators covet.
The only thing that could potentially hurt Hurst’s draft stock is that he’s a little scheme specific. He doesn’t show the anchor ability to be a space-eater nor would he fit as a 5-technique. Hurst will be the target of teams that typically run a 4-3 attack who need a penetrating 3-technque.