Trading away Jimmy Graham returned a really fast four down linebacker. Stephone Anthony was the #2 player left on my board behind Eric Kendricks – who plays the same position. Inside linebacker was a huge need and Anthony is a guy that will push to start. He’s fast, he can cover, he can hit, he can tackle… I love this selection.
Here’s his write up on NFL.com:
STRENGTHS
Has desired build for position. Good play speed and is generally under control. Steady, consistent tackler when he’s squared up. Has speed to chase to the sidelines and finish the play. Able to cover tight ends in passing game. Breaks to ball quickly against pass. Flashes ball skills and will play through pass-catchers. Features traits to be a more effective blitzer if called upon. Will compete through whistle and is physical against skill-position players. Lost job as junior and regained starting position with hard work and good attitude. Can cover ground laterally.
WEAKNESSES
Below average take-on skills. Plays with poor leverage when taking on blocks. Needs to improve hand usage and utilize better arm extension to keep blockers off him. Has tendency to side-step blocks and open run lanes. Can be mismatched by running backs down the field in passing game. Slow to process and recover against play-action. There are times he gets downhill without diagnosing first, creating bad angles to the ball against outside runs.
BOTTOM LINE
Anthony showed off his athleticism this post season and now the question becomes whether he can play fast all the time as a pro. He tries to get downhill and make plays, but more often it feels like he’s guessing rather than instinctive. If he can play with more control and play to his traits, he’ll be a starting linebacker in the league.
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