Could James Lynch be a Day 1 starter

I have been impressed with how well the Baylor defense have played when I watch them. Then I looked at James Lynch and just saw all kinds of potential. He definitely has the talent to make an immediate impact. The question is will the team that drafts him see what I see?

Game Watched: Kansas State, Texas Tech, Oklahoma (Big 12 Championship)

Pass Rush Move

James Lynch has an array of pass rushing methods when I watched him. His most frequent and effective moves are just a straight bull rush, jab and go, and the swim move. Depending on where he is lined up he has also used arm over, long arm, and very rare but sometimes gives a little bend action. So there isn’t move this guy doesn’t use to keep his opponents on their toes. Very versatile in this aspect.

Hand Placement

He hardly locks in with a lineman. Rather he keeps his hands moving to prevent anyone from really locking in with him, which makes–despite his size–slippery and will get you when you least expect it. However, when does make contact it’s to deliver one heck of a punch to the guy across from him.

First Step/Footwork

Not the quickest in the world but he has mean first step, where a lot of the time, he is shooting gaps to clog up holes. In open space he does seem to run like he has concrete in his cleats. With that said he keeps his feet moving at all times.

Play Recognition

As mentioned before he rarely locks on to a lineman and uses that to his advantage where he keeps his eyes up and can read where the ball is going. I wouldn’t say that’s a natural ability, but an advantage for his style of play. He seems to have a good feel after the snap to see if it’s a run or pass and plays accordingly

Athleticism

He’s not very fast. He has quick lateral movement, but really only in bursts and is just overall not very athletic. Not necessarily the biggest deal breaker in the world considering he normally doesn’t line up wider than the “4 technique” so that can be masked a bit. It’ll only be problem if he gets in space against anybody who’s mobile, which probably won’t happen much.

Miscellaneous

Despite the lack of athleticism, the thing that’ll make up for that is that he has an excellent motor. No matter where he is in relation to ball he’s always moving and trying to make a play. He stills possesses quick lateral movements that make stunting fairly effective, and given his ability to hand fight to prevent being locked in with the defender makes him slippery.

The only other concerning thing I found is he semi-frequently gets slung to the ground. Which is somewhat concerning give his size.

Pros

• Has a variety of pass rushing moves
• Powerful punch
• Keeps hands engaged to prevent from getting locked in
• Capable of quick lateral movements for gap shooting and stunting
• Relentless motor
• Good play recognition given his style

Cons

• Not very athletic or fast at his position
• Gets slung more often that I’d like
• Not sure play recognition will translate
• Not overly versatile as far where he can lineup

Summary

I certainly understand why he’s not going to be a day 1 pick. However, he posses a lot of potential to make seem like a steal. Having his variety of pass rushing moves is a very good start. Having an excellent motor is something all coaches look for and something that can mask some of his speed/athletic issues. If his motor and pass rush moves translate to the NFL like I think they can, then I think there’s a chance he could start on an NFL team right away. However, if his lack of speed and athleticism shine brighter in the NFL he might very well be a rotational player only.

Draft Projection: Later 3rd-Early 4th

Potential Fits:

• New England Patriots
• Jacksonville Jaguars
• Indianapolis Colts

You can view the rest of our NFL Draft breakdowns here.