2017 Miami Dolphins Draft Prospects: Linebacker Zach Cunningham
Continuing our new daily series, we continue to take a look at players the Miami Dolphins 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 Miami Dolphins could select during the draft process.
Moving on from the potential first round selection of offensive guard Forrest Lamp, today, we take a look at a player who could also be a first round pick for Miami. Needing one final starter at the linebacker position, the Miami Dolphins could pursue Vanderbilt linebacker Zach Cunningham.
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Background
Working his way into becoming an every game starter for Vanderbilt, Zach Cunningham is a player that played way above himself during his time with the Commodores. During his one full season as a starter at Vanderbilt, Cunningham was a force to be reckoned with and became one of college football’s most dominant inside linebackers.
Capable of sniffing out the ball carrier, delivering big time hits and participating in coverage, Cunningham will undoubtedly be taken in the first round of the upcoming NFL Draft. Depending on the outlook of teams in front of the Miami Dolphins, there is a chance that Cunningham could end up with the Dolphins come draft day.
Strengths
Will be a playmaker at the NFL level without a doubt. He is always looking to head downhill in order to stop the run and is not afraid of lowering the boom while also making first contact. Shoots through gaps like a pro and also has a good idea of how to break through and around blockers. Extremely quick when moving towards the ball carrier.
Cunningham is also a football magnet when it comes to finding the ball carrier and recovery fumbles. Can go sideline to sideline with the best of them and also possesses great instincts when determining his point of attack. Extremely talented when it comes to limiting yards after catch as well.
Weakness
Lacks power in his lower body, which has resulted in a loss of balance when attempting to make tackles. Plays behind his shoulders rather than his hands while also struggling to get off of blocks once he has become engaged. Has struggled against size and will also struggle against bigger lineman in the NFL.
Unlikely to fight past blocks and will need to finesse his way through gaps. Has had issue creating leverage in the past and is also lacking due to his smaller overall frame. Also likes to attack up high rather than securing tackles around the waist and legs of the ball carrier.
Highlight Reel
READ MORE: Miami offensive guard draft prospect Forrest Lamp
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