The BUST-O-METER is back again to break down our top 15 draft bust risks. The series of articles will look at two prospects per week breaking down why I feel they have a high potential for busting. Many factors played into my ranking including potential draft position. The draft position is very important because if they are selected high than what their production warrants it puts them at a higher likely hood of busting. These articles always bring a ton of feedback and are highly controversial which is what makes them so fun.
NFL Draft BUST-O-METER: #13 Justin Houston
For a reference, I like to classify a bust as someone that doesn’t live up to their draft position. This means that if a player is selected #1 overall I expect him to be a dominate player in the league. I also take into consideration what position the player is projected to play in the NFL. For example, if someone is selected in the top 10 and is projected as a rush 3-4 linebacker I expect to see a high sack total. Of course, there are many other factors that are specific for each player so check out the rest of the article after the JUMP.
Also don’t forget to stop by our Scouting Reports page to get an in-depth look at each prospect.
Player: Justin Houston- DE/OLB- Georgia
BUST-O-METER: 5 out of 10
Projected Draft Range: Mid to Late 1st Round
Thoughts: Every year we have several prospects that seem to not have a defined position. This is mainly centered around undersized defensive ends that many view as an option at the outside linebacker position in a 3-4 defense. Justin Houston fits the mold of a player that has the ability to possibly play both defensive end and outside linebacker. The fact that he doesn't have a truly defined position makes me feel a little uneasy. Weighing in at 270lbs, Houston appears to have the size needed to play defensive end. However, those 270lbs are more than he is use to playing with and doesn't mean that he can effectively hold strong at the point of attack. If Houston hopes to play defensive end he is going to need to refine his technique and ability to stuff the run. I am also concerned that the added weight will hinder his ability to hold up in coverage. Teams planning to utilize Houston as an outside linebacker need to evaluate his ability to carry his weight and drop back into coverage. Overall, I feel that Houston could be an effective pass rushing defensive end but if he is selected and made to play out of position he could fail.
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