NFL Draft Profile: Brandon Graham
NFL Draft Profile: Brandon Graham
Brandon Graham
DE|Michigan
6’1|263 lbs.
Brandon Graham was a physical force in his time at Michigan. Registering the second highest bench press of all DE’s at the combine (31 reps) it’s easy to see how his strength commanded a double team on most plays. He is a versatile player, and if he is able to translate that versatility into proving he can play both LB and DE his worth to a team could be immense.
Like a ‘57 Chevrolet, Graham has a motor that doesn’t quit constantly driving him into the QB’s face. He’s able to get around the edges with ease, which will help teams use him in more exotic packages in the NFL. More importantly that edge strength allows him to recognize and shut down outside runs better than most DE’s. He has a fantastic pursuit ability that he’s not afraid to use when chasing down a running back. And aside from his strength and size, what allows him to burst through the line most prominently is his almost “pro-level” hand work. Graham makes fantastic use of his hands and low center of gravity in the effort of shedding blockers.
At 6’1, 263 Brandon Graham has a unique frame in which he may have the ability to play both LB and DE. However it is also a strange predicament. Some scouts believe that “there are questions about whether or not he will be able to effectively drop into coverage if he plays as a 3-4 outside linebacker” (Fftoolbox). While other say that “he lacks the size evaluators look for in a defensive end” (Mockingthedraft). With conflicting reports as such, it’s difficult to deduce the worth of Graham. If indeed he can play both positions, he could be a very valuable asset to a team. But can he? Can he even play one in the NFL? Only time will tell.
Brandon Graham reminds me of a Vernon Gholston (6’3, 264 lbs.). Coming into the 2008 NFL draft Gholston was rated as one of the highest DE’s. He bench pressed an astonishing (class leading) 37 reps. Gholston is a little quicker and bigger than Graham and has still not yet been a success in the NFL as he has not excelled at either the DE or LB position.
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