Clay Matthews

6’4, 240 pounds | Outside linebacker | Southern California

Strengths: Very fast coming around the corner. Closes quickly on the ball carrier. Much quicker than fast. Due to Matthews’ strong football IQ, he diagnoses plays well. He rarely bit on fakes and screens and excelled at figuring out where the ball carrier was going. Coaches will love to have a player who has his effort. Plays with an attitude on the field and likes to hit people. Also does a nice job sinking his hips and charging through the ball carrier.

Weaknesses: Matthews’ best pass-rush move is a straight, outside speed rush which is based on getting a great burst off the snap. Because of this, he’ll struggle at times against fleet-footed tackles. Will take incorrect angles toward the ball carrier in the backfield arrive late to the ball. Has improved in pass coverage, dropping back and running with tight ends. However, he’s still mostly unproven in this area. Seems to lack good hands. to get stronger in his lower body because opponents can re-direct his
path.

Final word: Matthews is a classic overachiever who has worked hard to position himself as a likely top 100 pick. Due to some concerns about his coverage, Matthews may have to make his name as a situational pass rusher and special teams demon. Played on special teams his entire career. Began his career as a walk on before earning a scholarship. Comes from a great football family and has grown up in the game.

Round projection: 2