Jerry Hughes

Jerry Hughes NFL Draft Scouting Report

Defensive End

TCU


College Position: Defensive End
School: TCU
Grade: Senior
Height: 6-1
Weight: 255
Birthdate: 08-13-1988
Draft Projection: Mid First
Overall Rank: 15
NFL Draft Position (Rank): Defensive End (2)
3-4 Linebacker (2)

Draft Result Drafted in the 2010 Draft by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1st round with the #31 pick.
An excellent pick by the Colts. Jerry Hughes fits the Colts profile of fast, undersized pass rushing defensive ends. Dwight Freeney is getting up and age and battled injuries last year and Hughes provides both insurance and another running mate. In the Super Bowl the Colts struggle to put pressure on Drew Brees contributed to their defeat and this selection is an attempt to reinvigorate that pass rush. Hughes has the tools to be a dynamic pass rushing including long arms, is explosiveness off the edge and a high motor. He will also benefit from learning from and playing opposite Dwight Freeney. He could not have landed in a much better situation.

Strengths
  • Two time First Team All American
  • Relentless pass rusher. His first step is one of the best in this class
  • Tremendous athleticism - could have the fastest 40 among DEs
  • Outstanding closing speed. Can overrun a play and still recover
  • Knocks down a lot passes at line of scrimmage. 7 deflected passes for a 6'1" defensive end is remarkable
  • Consistent motor has helped make him a solid run defender
  • 26 sacks the past two seasons (15 sacks in 2008 led the country)
   

Weaknesses
  • Likely too small for DE which could force him to switch to 3-4 OLB or SLB
  • Needs to bulk up to play as an every down SLB
  • Best fit is likely as a 3-4 OLB
  • Held his ground well in run defense in the Mountain West, but could struggle in this area at the next level
  • Key to his draft status will be how well he shows he can drop into coverage
  • Needs to get improve his upper body strength

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