Corey Liuget NFL Draft Scouting Report

Corey Liuget

6'3, 300 pounds | Defensive tackle | Illinois

Pass rush: Liuget's pass rush ability comes from his quick hands and first step.  He has the ability to properly read the snap and fire off into the offensive line.  However, his best attribute is his ability to deliver a violent blow and lock out a blocker.  He consistently gets inside had placement which allows him to quickly disengage and work his way to the quarterback.  The fact that he can rush the passer with both a speed move and a bull rush makes him a versatile playmaker.

Pursuit: I was really impressed by Liuget's motor which routinely had him playing to the whistle.  Equally as impressive was his ability to close on the football.  When Liuget identified the ball carrier he was able to use a quick burst to make a play.  The fact that Liuget plays with good leverage and balance allows him to purse plays down the line of scrimmage.  He possesses good lateral quickness that allows him to reach the sidelines and support on outside runs.

Quickness: Liuget has an excellent first step which permits him to quickly get up field and penetrate the pocket.  That first steps off the ball leads to an explosive punch on the offensive line knocking them off balance and giving Liuget leverage.  He also possesses a good short yardage burst that allows him to close on the football.

Run defend: One of Liuget's biggest strengths is his ability to quickly locate the football.  As a run defender you need to be able to quickly identify the ball carrier and work your way towards him.  Liuget possesses both the awareness and skills to be an effective run defender.  His first step and leverage allow him to take control of the offensive line and drive them towards the football.  He uses his quick and heavy hands to disengage from the blocker and then his closing burst to make the play.

Strength: Liuget's strength comes from his leverage and thick base.  He holds strong at the point of attack and uses his leverage to quickly disengage from the blocker.  Liuget does a good job remaining balanced through contact rarely getting knocked off the line of scrimmage.  He is a possesses a natural bend to anchor after contact.

Tackling: When I watch Liuget play I notice a controlled nasty streak.  That nasty streak is noticeable when he delivers a strong pop to the ball carrier.

Technique: Luiget fires off the football keeping his pad level low while gaining leverage.  His ability to keep good leverage and balance keeps him in position to make a play.  He consistently gets inside hand placement and locks out the blocker.  While making his way to the football he takes balanced steps which keep him on his feet and in good position.  Overall he is a technically sound football player.

Games Viewed: Ohio State, Missouri, Michigan, Penn State

Final word: Liuget is growing on me and continues to rise up my draft board.  He plays with such great leverage and technique that he is rarely out of position.  He combines that good technique with excellent quickness and a non- stop motor.  He has the versatility to play in either a 1 or 2 gap system which will appeal to may different teams.  I look at him as a solid mid- 1st round selection.