2017 Philadelphia Eagles Draft Prospects: Linebacker Alex Anzalone
Continuing our our pre-draft series, we continue to take a look at players the Philadelphia Eagles may consider selecting at some point during the 2017 NFL Draft. While these players may not all be first round quality, this series will look at players across all the rounds that the Philadelphia Eagles could select during the draft process.
Moving on from the potential day two selection of wide receiver Cooper Kupp, today, we take a look at a player that could end up being a day three pick for Philadelphia. In need of some depth and youth at the linebacker position, the Eagles could be tempted into selecting former Florida Gator Alex Anzalone.
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Background
A player that while extremely talented, has spent a lot of time on the trainer’s table and on the sidelines during his time in Gainesville. Despite playing in quite a few games over his four-years with the Gators, Anzalone also struggled with many nagging injuries, averaging one constant issue every year he was with the team.
Given this reliability issue, it is no wonder that Anzalone has fallen to the level of a day three prospect. However, when healthy, Anzalone was a player that could fly all around the field. While his stats don’t show it, Anzalone was a player that helped make plays happen during his time with the team. The same could be expected from him at the next level.
Strengths
Has the size and athletic ability to fit into almost any pro defensive scheme. Is someone that can be groomed into a role player for your team. Has fluid ability to turn and run in space. Has some great range for a linebacker. Wide open strider when running. Can make up ground when going towards the perimeter. Is someone teams will love when it comes to preventing long runs.
Loves to play downhill and is not afraid of getting physical with blockers. An every down linebacker that has the recovery speed to chase down running backs and receivers. Has experience playing different positions in the linebacking corps. Has the closing burst and body control to get to the passer.
Weakness
Many, many injuries that while not really major, have been nagging him for most of his career. Averaging almost one season long injury per year, Anzalone will be someone that teams must keep a good eye on if they want to develop him into an every down player at the NFL level.
Other areas of concern will be that he never forced a turnover while in college. Extremely inconsistent in body positioning and ability. Uses too much energy trying to get off blocks and get to the ball carrier. Can get eaten up by bigger, stronger lineman. Will look to do more than needed when in coverage and over exert himself.
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