Tennessee Titans Prospect Profile: Everson Griffen

In previous installments in this series on defensive end prospects, we have profiled Derrick Morgan, Jason Pierre-Paul, Brandon Graham,  Carlos Dunlap and Jerry Hughes. We now continue our look at defensive ends with the focus on Everson Griffen.

Overview: Extremely athletic and talented, was one of the top high school recruits in the nation. Started as a freshman at USC to open the season, which is a highly unusual feat, but quickly lost his starting job. Ditto for his sophomore season. Blossomed as a junior and declared for the draft after the season. Is probably best suited to be a 4-3 DE but has the ability to also be considered as a 3-4 OLB.

Height: 6′ 4″

Weight: 273

Arm Length: 32⅝”

Hand size: 10″

40-yard dash: 4.59

10-yard split: 1.63

Bench reps: 32

Vertical jump: 34″

Broad jump: 9′ 7″

Short shuttle: 4.36

3-cone drill: 7.25

Pass Rush: Explosive first step. Displays strong bull rush, spin, rip and swim moves but they will all need refining. Gets low bending off the edge. Inconsistent use of hands and technique.

Run Defense:  Usually stout at the point of attack but can be pushed around on occasion. Plays with leverage. Sheds blocks and disengages well. Active on the line of scrimmage. Good lateral quickness. Reliable tackler who can deliver big hits. Very good speed and range in pursuit. Can make tackles in the open field.

Size/Strength/Athleticism: Average height and short arms for a DE. Thick frame. Powerful upper body, 32 bench reps at combine. Strong hands, delivers a violent punch. Excellent athleticism, balance and agility for a d-lineman. Very good combo of strength, speed and athleticism. Outstanding physical talent.

Miscellaneous: Weight room strength is sometimes greater than what he displays on the field. Motor runs hot and cold. Doesn’t always seem to give his best effort. Doesn’t seem to get the best out of his talent. Inconsistent in virtually all aspects of the game. Questionable work ethic. Minor character concerns due to arrest for a breach of the peace — charges were later dropped.

My take: Griffen flashes the ability to be great. He could become a star or could become just a waste of talent. Boom or bust gamble. Griffen is projected to be taken from the late first to early second round and should be a possibility if the Titans trade down from #16. I would rather see the Titans go with Morgan, Pierre-Paul or Graham at #16.