Scouting report: Fili Moala

6’5, 298 pounds | Southern California | Defensive tackle
Strengths: Uses his size to collapse running lanes between the tackles. Can handle double teams. Great recognition skills, which come from being a career starter on the defensive line. Knows where the ball is going and is quick to react. A four-year starter. Solid wrap-up tackler. Has the strength to hold on to finish off tackles. Frame is big enough to easily at 10-15 pounds of mass. Could play inside in a 4-3 or end in a 3-4.
Weaknesses: Plays too upright and loses leverage. Needs to use his hands better to shed blocks. Has only average quickness, particularly against the pass. Decent off the snap, but he doesn’t have the speed to chase down a quarterback or running back. For a player of his build, Moala doesn’t have as much strength as you’d expect, but it’s still good enough to hold up pretty well against the run. Play was inconsistent during his senior year.
Final word: Although Moala isn’t incredibly vocal, he was considered by coaches to be the leader of the defensive line. Arrested in March of 2008 for obstructing an officer after a fight. No charges filed. Will be a 24-year-old rookie. Cousin in Haloti Ngata of the Baltimore Ravens.
Round projection: 2