In a draft deep with defensive talent, particularly among defensive linemen and linebackers, Clemson defensive end Shaq Lawson is a surefire first-round pick. He was only a starter for one season in college, but Lawson is considered “scheme-versatile” in scouting parlance, as he would fit in a 4-3 or 3-4 defense.

Here’s my scouting report on Lawson, starting with his measurables.

Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 269 pounds
Arm Length: 32-3/4-inches
40-yard Dash: 4.70 seconds (NFL Combine)

Strengths

– Has a very good first step
– Plays with excellent leverage; sets edge well vs. the run
– Uses hands and arms well; shows excellent power
– Can play effectively standing up on the edge and in a four-point stance
– Is solidly built, broad chested
– Plays with good effort

Weaknesses

– Is not very flexible or athletic; not a “hip bender”
– Needs to develop a wider array of pass rush moves
– Lacks great speed, both on tape and timed
– Does not change direction smoothly
– Seems to have below-average overall instincts

Overview

The realistic first-round landing spots for Lawson are wide-ranging. Teams with a fairly early pick (New York Giants No. 10 overall, Chicago Bears No. 11, Miami Dolphins No. 13) and teams picking a bit later (Detroit Lions No. 16, Atlanta Falcons No. 17, Indianapolis Colts No. 18, New York Jets No. 20) are among the strongest possibilities. Teams with Super Bowl expectations, most notably the Arizona Cardinals at No. 29 and Carolina Panthers at No. 30, could consider making a trade up to get Lawson.

Any team looking for an immediate starter to bolster their pass rush is a fit for Lawson, so a lot of teams should be taking a closer look at him over the next few weeks. It’s also fair to think he has some untapped upside, since he enters the next level without a lot of starting experience, so Lawson could become one of the league’s elite pass rushers if he lands in the right situation.