Randy Gregory DE Nebraska #4
Wt: 235
Size/Athleticism: Elite length. Frame has potential for additional growth. Reportedly played at 218 pounds in 2014—that’s probably exaggerated, or perhaps it was what he weight at some point (spring ball?). He certainly looks closer to 235/240 on tape. Has all the physical tools teams look for, even if he isn’t quite ready from a strength standpoint.
Run Defense: Swallowed up at the point of attack. Clearly lacks the dominant lower body strength to hold his ground. Struggles to shed tackles once he loses leverage and linemen get into his pads. Has the speed to make plays in pursuit. Shows the athleticism to work through traffic in pursuit. If he really played at 218 lbs (I’m skeptical) his upside in this area is off the charts. He looks average at the POA, but for an undersized guy, he was effective and has the frame to add a ton of muscle.
Pass-Rush: Elite explosiveness. Change of direction ability is off the charts. Can fake outside and explode to the inside, a combo which helps mask his somewhat limited strength. Extremely explosive but does not react to the snap. Often the last man to move on the line. Puts together smooth combo moves. Long arms allow him to play with leverage and keep offensive linemen off his chest.
Versatility: Sort of a LB/DE ‘tweener. Can definitely play 4-3 end or 3-4 linebacker and could potentially play strong-side linebacker in some 4-3 schemes, much like Von Miller in Denver. He’s athletic enough to do just about anything.
Intangibles: Signed with Purdue but didn’t qualify academically and went JUCO route until joining Nebraska in 2013.
Durability: Missed 2012 with a broken leg.
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Overview: Gregory is an impressive athlete and has the explosive ability to be a dominant edge-rusher. He’s also shown steady improvement throughout his career and has the tools to continue to develop at the next level. His only weakness of note is a lack of dominant strength to anchor against the run, but has the frame to add some weight which would help. He’s a boom-or-bust prospect, but the ceiling is incredible high.
