Bruce Irvin 2012 NFL Draft prospect notes

by Jon Dove on Jul 19, 2011 10:01 AM EDT in 2012 NFL Draft

Bruce Irvin
6'3, 235 pounds | Outside Linebacker/Defensive End | West Virginia

First word: We have mentioned it time and time again but the ability to create pressure is something that all defensive coordinators covet. NFL teams are searching for the next great pass rusher and with the emergence of the 3-4 defense linebackers are getting more attention. Good defensive coordinators find away to use talented players with speed and quickness.

Bruce Irvin is all about speed and suddenness with the ability to create a ton of pressure. He possesses an explosive first step that allows him to get up field and threaten the edge. However, it is his non-stop motor that really makes him dangerous as he never stops pursing the football. Offensive tackles really struggle to protect the edge against Irvin because of his quickness off the football.

Creating pressure is important but you need to be a complete player to really make an impact in the NFL. Irvin needs to spend time adding bulk and strength to his frame. His ability to improve his run defense will go along way to improve his draft stock. Irvin will also need to spend time learning the ins and outs of pass coverage as he is rarely asked to drop.

Overall, Irvin has all the physical tools to be a dominant pass rusher in the NFL. He is athletic enough to make the adjustment from defensive end to outside linebacker. Improving his run defense and adding some new pass rush moves will be something evaluators look for this season.

Bold statement: Irvin will have another highly productive season and kill it at the combine. He will be in the discussion as a late 1st round selection.

Games viewed: NC State ('10), Maryland ('10), Pittsburgh ('10)

Bruce Irvin
6'3, 235 pounds | Outside Linebacker/Defensive End | West Virginia

Notes:

Irvin is an extremely explosive player that excels at creating pressure
He has an excellent first step which allows him to constantly threaten the edge
Irvin is always giving 100% effort and moving at his top speed
His motor is a major contributor to the pressure he creates
Once he gets the edge, he has the 2nd gear to explode towards the quarterback and get the sack
His suddenness helps keep offensive linemen off his body
Irvin does a nice job maintaining leverage throughout the play
He is able to quickly change direction making it tough for linemen to adjust to his inside move
His quick hands help him keep clean as he pursues the football
Irvin needs to add more bulk to his frame
He is a true tweener without a definite position
If a lineman gets into his frame he struggles to disengage

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Comments

Irvin's got a lot in common with Von Miller

Last night, a comedian died in New York. Somebody knows why. Somebody knows

by Rorschach44 on Jul 19, 2011 10:13 AM EDT reply actions

Another important thing about him is his relative lack of experience playing football

He had a lot of problems in high school and has since been changing his life, but those past problems kept him from playing high school football. He went to CC and the coach just told him to get to the QB. He’s only been playing DE for two or three years and has never really had any coaching until recently in spring camp. He definitely will need work to make the transition to the NFL, but he is a lot like Jason Pierre Paul in that he needs a lot of learning. He will excel as long as he is a quick learner.

by Dwalk1217 on Jul 19, 2011 1:29 PM EDT reply actions