2020 NFL Draft: EDGE class possesses boom or bust talent

2 of 4

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA – NOVEMBER 09: K’Lavon Chaisson #18 of the LSU Tigers argues with a referee during the second quarter in the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 09, 2019 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

1. K’Lavon Chaisson, LSU

(Stats: 37 TKLs, 8.0 TFLs, 2.0 Sacks in 7 games)

Where He Wins – Short Area Quickness: Chaisson is currently more of a game wrecker than a pass rusher right now. His burst allows him to navigate through traffic with ease, stopping plays in the backfield. He has the requisite strength to take on blockers, but his quickness puts him on another level.

More from With the First Pick

Needs To Improve – Pass-Rush Plan: Pretty self-explanatory, nevertheless, because Chaisson has not been on the field much due to injuries, he has yet to develop as a pass rusher. He hasn’t had the time to figure out what works for him and what doesn’t and tends to rely more on his instincts, rather than a planned attack.

2. AJ Epenesa, Iowa

(Stats: 22 TKLs, 4.5 TFLs, 4.5 Sacks in 9 games)

Where He Wins – Power: You can just look at Epenesa and tell the dude is going to be strong, but when you flip on the tape you quickly realize that he is STRONG! He provides a great anchor against the run and is near impossible to move without a double team. A bull-rush is one of his go-to moves when rushing the passer.

Needs To Improve – Counter Move: As stated above, the bull-rush is one of the best moves when rushing the passer, but when that gets stuffed, so does he. Outside of two or 3 moves off the snap, Epenesa struggles to find ways to shed blockers when he can’t just muscle them over.

Home/NFL Draft News