Sean Weatherspoon scouting report

Sean Weatherspoon |  OLB |  University of Missouri

6'1, 242 pounds, 40: 4.60ish

COVERAGE- Weatherspoon or "Spoon" is probably better suited for a team that uses alot of zone coverages. Reads the quarterbacks well and uses his athleticsm to make a play. Becoming quite the playmaker when the ball is in the air, and has above average hands for the LB positon. He can be easily fooled on play action passes which could cause trouble at the next level. Does a decent job of keeping up with running backs and tight ends when in man coverage but is better suited for a zone scheme.

INSTINCTS- During the game you can frequently see him lining up his fellow defenders as he understands the defense there very well. Against the run his instincts are the question as he his fooled easily on misdirection plays and is known to overpursue.

PASS RUSH- Adequate pass rusher, he has a good burst and closes rather quickly which will help if he's coming off the edge. Has trouble shedding blockers but won't give up as his motor is top notch. Has started using some rip and swim moves while rushing.

PURSUIT- Covers ground quickly which is good considering he gets fooled on alot of misdirection. Takes solid angles. Never gives up on a play and has the non stop motor that coaches will love.

QUICKNESS- Shows a good burst, not great but good. Has adequate quickness to close in on the ball however it's not the "elite" level that you would like to see from a star linebacker.

RUN DEFENSE- He is rangy, can go sideline to sideline. Very solid against the run as long as he isn't taking on a blocker. Displays solid technique when tackling, once again solid not great. Does a good job of squaring up for the hit but lacks the "boom boom pow" of the elite linebackers. Will make the fumble, probably won't cause the fumble.

SIZE- Nice size at 6'1 or 6'2 around the 240 lbs. mark. Runs in the 4.58 to 4.61 range.

STRENGTH- Adequate strength, however one of the stronger outside linebackers in this draft.

TACKLING- Does a very nice job of wrapping up the ball carrier and getting him down. He may not be the hardest hitter but he gets the job done. Does a nice job in the open field.

VERSATILITY- Has played inside and outside at Missouri. Depending on the defensive scheme he might be able to play MLB.

FINAL THOUGHTS- Very coachable player and should get better with NFL coaching. He does everything good but nothing great. He's looking like a 2nd rounder right now but could move up with many of the higher ranked OLBs opting to stay in school. He should test very very well at the combine and pro day. I've seen him being compared to a wide range of players including Ernie Sims, Curtis Lofton, and a poor man's Derrick Brooks