Michael Brockers
6'6, 306 pounds | Defensive tackle | LSU
Pass rush: Generates a good bull rush using his powerful legs and has the quickness to be used to get outside on twists. Does a nice job of playing to the outside allowing the defensive end to get wide around the edge. Has shown an advanced knowledge of how to use to his frame to get skinny and work through the gap. Would be able to make his most immediate impact as a five technique on a three-man front.
Pursuit/Quickness: Gets off the line of scrimmage with ease. His first step isn't elite, but it's not bad. Displays good effort if he loses on the first move. Gives a good effort to get his hand on the ball carrier, even when held up on blocks. Doesn't always work to the wide outside edge when a play develops. Light on his feet.
Michael Brockers NFL Draft scouting report
Run defend: Although Brockers frequently requires double team blocks, he doesn't give up ground. Gets lined up over center or in the A-gap. Shows good instincts to get after running backs as they come through the hole. Has nice change of direction ability for such a big player. Alert lineman who can quickly recognize and react to trap blocks.
Strength: Is still growing into his frame, but already has good power. Has big, strong legs that help him fire off the snap. Could easily get up to 315 pounds by adding more bulk to his upper body. Still learning how to use his strength in the pass rush.
Tackling: Uses a combination of length and power to take down tacklers. Gets wide in the running lane to engulf ball carriers. Is nimble because of his change of direction skills, so Brockers has the skills to work through the trash near the line.
Technique: Brockers has a tendency to come out of his stance high and give up leverage to shorter linemen. Really had issues with this against Alabama's William Vlachos. Shows good handwork to get off blocks.
Final word: In the 2012 NFL Draft, few players carry as much potential and upside as Brockers, a redshirt sophomore. On a loaded LSU defensive line, Brockers routinely stood out and should transition well to the NFL. At 6-foot-6, Brockers has an impressive frame with a lot of room to grow. Because of his relative inexperience (one season as a full-time starter), he'll need to get drafted on a team that can rotate him in while he develops.
