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NFL Draft Profile: Leonard Floyd OLB, Georgia

By Chris Schisler

Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Jake Ganus (51) and linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) react after stopping the Missouri Tigers on fourth down late in the game during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Jake Ganus (51) and linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) react after stopping the Missouri Tigers on fourth down late in the game during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Leonard Floyd May Be The Most Exciting Risk In This Draft…

Leonard Floyd is a has the potential to be a game changing player in the NFL. The problem is he also has the potential to underwhelm. Floyd has some of the traits of elite pass rushers in the NFL. The 6’6″ edge rusher has an amazing wingspan. He is a great athlete, and he understands how to use his strengths as an advantage. Floyd however lacks top-tier strength, and he lacks the prototypical build to go with his length. He weighs in at 244 pounds.

Floyd had some production at Georgia. In three seasons with the Bulldogs, he has 17 sacks and 26.5 tackles for a loss. Floyd isn’t a great tackling linebacker. His strength is concerning. If Floyd gets taken in the first round, the team that drafts him is betting on his upside. Floyd is a risk at any point in this draft. Here is an example of a guy who has a very high ceiling and a pretty low floor.

Strengths:

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  • Solid repertoire of pass rushing moves.
  • Explosive burst of the ball
  • Excellent length and height
  • Wins with leverage and quickness

Concerns:

  • Weak against the run
  • Average tackling skills
  • He’s a project, needs to bulk up
  • Can he bull rush NFL tackles?

Should Ravens Target Floyd?

Well it was reported that Leonard Floyd met with the team today, so the Ravens must have interest. The question here is how much interest do the Ravens have. Floyd’s concerns make it doubtful that he is a top-10 pick. If the Ravens trade back, he could be in play.

Next: Pre-Draft Evaluation Of Ravens Offensive Line

I think there are more polished pass rushing options. Shaq Lawson for example would provide more of an instant impact. Floyd has exciting upside, but let’s not act like this wouldn’t be a massive gamble. Floyd has the polish of a second round pick, with some first round attributes.

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