The good: Durant displays incredible speed, instincts and the quickness that should allow him to compete for a pro starting job at inside or outside linebacker. He is a top athlete who uncoils when he tackles a ball carrier, and he’s a powerful hitter who looks to not only drop the runner but dislodge him from the ball and create turnovers. In pass coverage, he runs like a defensive back with the flexible hips, quick reactions and instincts to match up with running backs and tight ends. He has the makeup to become terror on special teams units, where he may be the top prospect in this draft class.
The bad: Durant needs a scheme that protects him with big defensive tackles that allow him to flow to the ball and use his speed. He is still a little raw in pass coverage and needs development in his reads and play recognition. He can get engulfed by bigger linemen, especially between the tackles, and that was at a lower-level of competition in Division I-AA. He will have to improve at the NFL level to remain inside.
The skinny: Durant is the top small college prospect this year, a top 60 prospect with a big upside and an early starter in the right setting. He will be a great value late on the first day of the draft.
This is special to Rivals.com from Frank Coyle. Coyle has written about the NFL Draft in his newsletter for more than...[Complete Bio]
var CurrentYear = 2013;
Highlight Videos
