Merlin Robertson LB Arizona State Draft Profile

Strengths

• An aggressive run defender, filling run lanes hard, and won't shy from contact. Plays with violence to fight off blocks, flashing a physical nature. An intense, powerful hitter who willingly gives up his body.
• He has good reaction skills and awareness. Forceful tackler vs. the run.
• Brings down quarterbacks much bigger than he is. Very good motor and regularly chases down plays from behind.
• Coordinated footwork and balance. Makes more plays in pass coverage than expected because of his natural football instincts.
• Tough between-the-tackles defender who shimmies past blockers to fill lanes. Downhill, aggressive run-stuffer with enough strength to stop ballcarriers in the hole.

Weaknesses

• Stiff in space with poor lateral agility and range. Not fluid changing direction. Struggles to tackle in the open field and falls off too many tackles going for the TKO.
• Hits up high and misses more tackles than he should.
• Chase speed is below average, and he gets too upright as a pass rusher - needs to play with better leverage.
• Chase speed is below average, and he gets too upright as a pass rusher - needs to play with better leverage.
• Lacks elite quickness and change-of-direction ability to handle NFL slot receivers after initial contact.

How other scouting services rate Merlin Robertson (Overall Rank)