2018 NFL Draft: Jeff Holland Scouting Report

Auburn’s Jeff Holland is a 2018 NFL Draft edge rusher who has flashed the ability to generate solid pressure on the quarterback.

Jeff Holland is a well-built edge defender who should hear his name called in the middle part of the 2018 NFL Draft. This is a prospect who flashes big-time potential, but there are occasions where he appears to get a little lucky.

Holland’s frame features good overall thickness and solid length. His strong build gives him the ability to anchor after contact and set the edge against the run. The fact that he is committed to gaining inside hands also helps his run defense.

He shows a good feel for the game and does a good job identifying post-snap reads. Holland has some closing burst, but there are times where he struggles to reach the ball carrier. Basically, his quickness can be best described as slightly above average but far from elite.

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His burst is also something that shows up when he’s rushing the passer. Holland does a good job quickly getting off the ball and attacking the edge. He uses his hands to keep clean and works to flatten around the corner.

Again, there are times where Holland looks to have the top-end quickness evaluators look for in a pass rusher. However, there are also situations where he appears to have an average burst.

The key to his success at the next level will be developing more pass rush moves. At this point, he tries to win each battle by using a speed rush. He’ll need to work on added more to his arsenal if he hopes to really make an impact.

Holland was one of the harder evaluations in this draft class. He’s someone who works hard and flashes good athleticism. However, there are too many situations where he looks a step too slow to be considered an elite pass rushing prospect.

His testing numbers at the combine will be important for Holland. A strong showing would give him more developmental upside.