NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Report: Jihad Abdur-Rahman, DE, West Virginia Wesleyan
- Jihad Abdur-Rahman, Defensive Lineman. West Virginia Wesleyan College
- Height: 6’3
- Weight: 270 lbs.
- Hometown: Savannah, GA
Pros: Does a very good job keeping lineman disengaged and even when they do get hands on him, he shows the ability to get them off. Nonstop motor. Does a very good job wrapping up the ball carrier or quarterback. Versatile, has played a 3 technique defensive tackle in Delaware State University and more defensive end at West Virginia Wesleyan. Keeps hands active throughout the play. Does well by quickly clogging running lanes and that doesn’t always show up in the stat sheet. Good job while reading option plays.
Cons: Lower body strength will need worked on as he can be kept at bay. Seems to have more success at defensive end and will need to learn more techniques in that field. Can be taken out of plays if the opponent has a firm grip on him. One can tell that he’s a little raw in some aspects of the game, so will need to refine techniques and learn more pass rushing moves.
Overall: While watching his tape, you can see some raw aspects of his game. However, as you continue to watch more you see a player that has improved and appears to be putting the pieces together. He seems to be better suited as a 4-3 defensive end, but his versatility allows him to also be a 3-4 defensive end. Abdur-Rahman shows the ability to read offenses and continues to pursue after the ball. If he can tweak some technique in the pass rush, Abdur-Rahman could start reaching his potential. After watching his tape, you want more, because you expect him to continue to grow and want to see what his ceiling could be. If he continues to put in the work and refine moves, it’ll be fun to see what his ceiling is.
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