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As we continue our run through edge defenders, next up on the list is Auburn Tigers OLB Jeff Holland. General Manager Les Snead has shown no fear in searching for talent in his Alma mater Auburn.
Holland stands 6’3” and 249 lbs, making him a good fit at OLB in a 3-4 defense. His body isn’t ideal, but it didn’t hinder his ability. Holland totaled 10 sacks in 2017.
Let’s jump into the tape:
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Often times Holland will resort to a speed rush in which he’ll use some sort of move at the top of the arc to help flatten to the QB. In this instance Holland uses a rip move (which he does quite often).
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Coming off LE this time Holland again resorts to a similar rush. After some hand slapping. Holland shows a little bit of bend as well as a rip to help keep the tackle’s hands off his body. Holland gets a hand on the QB forcing a sack-fumble.
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This rep might be my favorite of the bunch from Holland as he totally changes it up against the tackle. Knowing the speed rush wont work on this snap because of the depth that the tackle got in his pass set, Holland hits him with a long-arm that drives the tackle into the QB’s lap.
Here are some of my game notes:
- Runs himself out of plays too often, right up the arc
- Tackles push him past the QB too much
- Haven’t seen much vs the run
- Not a great athlete
- Not much bend
As you can see I have quite a few questions about Holland’s ability. It’s those reasons that I see him as a mid-late day three option. I think he’ll ultimately land somewhere in the fifth round, though the Los Angeles Rams obviously lack a fifth-round pick.