Jerry Hughes (DE/OLB, TCU)
[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwoo94qwh_4]YouTube - DE Jerry Hughes Highlights/Lowlights 2009/2008 TCU[/ame]
I think if there are no more 1st round tackles left once we reach our pick this guy would be a great addition to the defense and really solidify the other side of clay matthews. Check out the video, it's lengthy, but only because he makes so many plays.
Overview
Hughes moved from running back to defensive end during his first season at TCU, a move that helped the team finish as the top-rated FBS defense in total yardage the past two seasons. That position switch could have opened the door for Hughes to have a long NFL career as a pass rusher. In his first two seasons (no redshirt), Hughes applied pressure on the quarterback in spot duty as a reserve. But in 2008, he brought down opposing quarterbacks 15 times, including the game-icing tackle to help win the Poinsettia Bowl, and finished with 19.5 tackles for loss and forced six fumbles (tied for the most in the FBS). As a senior, he won the Lott Trophy (top defender) and Ted Hendricks Award (top defensive end) after making 58 tackles, 16.5 for loss, and 11.5 sacks despite teams game-planning against him every week. Most teams using four-man fronts view Hughes as a pass-rush specialist, but those using a base 3-4 alignment might move the undersized Hughes to linebacker. It's the move made by Chargers' 2009 first-round pick Larry English. A bit raw technique-wise, his closing speed and secure tackling make him a threat to track down the ball anywhere he lines up.
Analysis
Read & React: Good instincts with a nose for the ball. Lacks elite timed speed but is quick to close when a lane to the quarterback or ballcarrier opens. Recognizes misdirection and stays at home to contain the edge.
Run defense: Undersized defensive end likely to move to linebacker. Pushed around on plays run at him, but has enough leverage and length to disengage from tight ends or fullbacks and chase when the ballcarrier bounces outside. Hustles downfield and through trash inside to make tackles -- promising if he plays linebacker. Avoids cuts and when he doesn't avoid, he can recover quickly enough to chase down backs five or six yards downfield.
Pass defense: Drops into zones at times. Not exceptionally fluid or quick but has just enough speed and change-of-direction agility to stay with running backs and tight ends in the flat -- and run with them down the sideline. Can make the easy catch for the interception and knock the ball away from backs when in coverage.
Tackling: Explosive tackler in the backfield. Good length to wrap up and chops the ball out of the hands of ballcarriers. Usually takes correct angles in pursuit. Breaks down in space, getting a good part of even the more elusive backs.
Pass Rush/Blitz: Relentless chaser of the quarterback, even when facing double- and triple-team blocks. Turns the corner using quickness to get under the shoulder of the tackle. Reaches in to knock the ball out of the quarterback's hands even if engaged. Can push some tackles into the backfield using his leverage to bull rush under the pads of bigger, taller blockers. Gets caught up in trash when twisting but gives good effort to fight through. Did take advantage of slow college right tackles (lines up on the strong side despite his lack of size) and an aggressive defense to get his sack numbers. Relies on pure speed and must learn how to have violent hands to beat NFL tackles. Will need some variation in his pass-rush moves.
Intangibles: Respected by his teammates. Fiery on the field and plays with attitude through the whistle. Willing to participate on special teams despite his All-America reputation. Coaches give him accolades for his work ethic during practice and in the offseason.
