Michael Bennett DT Ohio State #63
Wt: 293
[level-scouting-reports]
Size/Athleticism: Prototypical three-tech defensive tackle. Slightly undersized in terms of his length and weight, but his quickness and ability to play with leverage allows him to be productive at this weight. Added weight prior to combine, but played closer to 285 pounds at Ohio State. Probably isn’t athletic enough to be a great fit as a five-tech end in a 3-4 defense, so may be limited to playing in the 4-3.
Run Defense: Not a dominant force at the point of attack, but holds his ground fairly consistently as long as he isn’t double-teamed. Does a great job shedding blocks in order to make plays in pursuit. A patient defender who clearly understands his assignments. OSU defensive line is very active, and his ability to get to the edge from the interior line provide them the ability to be creative. Impressive closing speed when given a lane into the backfield.
Pass Rush: Explosive off the snap. Shoots the gap off the snap and has the closing speed to be a disruptive force in the backfield. Shows an array of moves. Spin move is a favorite and his balance and agility allows him to use to the move effectively. Upper body strength isn’t great, but he has very active hands which he uses to keep offensive linemen from getting into his chest.
Intangibles: Showed questionable effort at times during senior year.
Durability: Missed four games with groin injury in 2012. Did not work out at combine due to groin injury.
[/level-scouting-reports]
Overview: Bennett may be a scheme-limited prospect, which hurts his value. However, he projects as a disruptive three-technique tackle in the 4-3 scheme and could be a force right away. His production has been up and down throughout his career, but he was a dominant force during the Buckeyes’ championship run. He will immediately make an impact as an interior pass-rusher and has shown flashes of ability to hold his ground against the run.
