Mark Herzlich NFL Draft Scouting Report
Mark Herzlich- Boston College/6-4 248 Pounds
Coverage: To start the year Herzlich was playing further outside than most would expect from an outside linebacker. It was an interesting move because it was apparent that Herzlich still hadn’t gotten back to full speed after going through cancer treatments and a difficult foot injury. Mark Herzlich continued to make his comeback case, though. Herzlich made few mistakes in the open and when he did it wasn’t glaring in the least. As the year went by, Herzlich became better and better with his coverage and proved to many doubters that instincts can make up for agility when in coverage.
Instincts/Play Recognition: Mark Herzlich has the best instincts as a linebacker in his last two years playing in college football. Herzlich had four interceptions this season (he had a cast on his hand for much of the regular season) and caught 6 interceptions two years ago. On and off the field, Mark Herzlich was the leader for Boston College. While he was battling cancer, Herzlich stayed on the team to help coach the linebackers. Tactically, Herzlich is as savvy as linebackers get.
Pass Rush: Herzlich will never be known for his pass rush. He didn't register a sack this season (he rarely rushed the pocket). Whoever drafts Herzlich will not be looking for him to head into the Clay Matthews mold. He could be involved in a few blitz packages, but don't expect him to impress you with his dynamic pass rushing ability. Herzlich will never be known for his passing attack because of a poor first step. If Herzlich can utilize a bull rush tactic he has the chance to negate the first step.
Pursuit/Lateral Movement and Agility: If Mark Herzlich can score well with scouts during the Senior bowl tryouts and time well at the combine, look for Herzlich to be a second round pick. The problem is that the lateral movement we saw in 2008 has still not regained its full shape; as a matter of fact it may never return. Herzlich will use his intelligence to beat the runner to the spot but he had a difficult time chasing the ball carriers this season. These traits will be the X factor to decide whether or not he is worth the risk early in the draft.
Quickness: Within the hash marks, Herzlich can dazzle a lineman with his quickness, but he will never be known for his quickness on the outside. Mark can be seen lumbering toward the ball carrier on many occasions. Herzlich needs improvement in this category if he plans on being an every down linebacker in the NFL.
Run Defense: Mark Herzlich can blow up the offensive blocking scheme from the outset. He’s averaged around 7 TFL’s in his last two seasons. In an instant, Herzlich can diagnose a rushing play and disrupt the play in the backfield. Herzlich’s pure size is enough to intimidate any running back, but his ability to shed blocks has made Herzlich the player he’s always wanted to be.
Strength: With restrictions on leg exercises during his cancer treatment, Herzlich decided to focus and build on his upper body during his off-season. When he returned he put his feet on the scale and was nearly the same exact weight he was in 2008. His legs could always use more strength, but that will all come in time. His upper body strength is near perfection for a young man with his body type. Give him an off-season with an NFL training schedule and he’ll be able to throw running backs down like it’s nothing.
Final Word: The entire country was able to witness the best story college football has seen in a while. Meeting and talking to Mark the game day he announced that cancer had finally been stricken from his body. His personality is perfect for a football player; reserved and kind off the field and a monster once he steps on the gridiron. Look for Mark to be picked anywhere from mid 2nd to the 3rd round.
