NFL Draft Preview: Vernon Gholston Draft Preview

Vernon Gholston is the prototype for a hybrid defensive lineman-linebacker to play in the 3-4 defense. He has a well built frame and can over-power offensive tackles, but he isn't too much of a load to come off the edge with speed. He is a game changer that can get around the line and blindside the quarterback, forcing a fumble or at the least sacking him. He plays with the type of effort and emotion that makes a coach comfortable knowing that he will make plays all over the field. The Ohio State grad has a great passion for the game and always makes an impact on the game even if he doesn't make the tackle. While he is very confident in his ability, he is also a humble character with no off-field issues. It is rare to see him talk trash and just goes about his business. The spring in his step is so unbelievably quick that he can blow by offensive lineman without a hesitation. He had the best bench press, vertical jump, and broad jump at the combine. He is also a very hard worker and has a solid core and will not be knocked down. When he does get knocked down, he's right back on his feet pursuing the ball.

No one is perfect in terms of a scouting report, but Gholston is about the closest thing to it. He has loose hips to drop back in pass coverage, but when he gets too tall in his backpedal, it is difficult for him to turn clean and break back. He relies a lot on athletic ability instead of focusing on technique, but that can be fixed in training camp.

I said this in a previous article, but Gholston is Terrell Suggs in disguise. They are the same size and ran almost the same forty time. Suggs has been a great hybrid defensive lineman-linebacker for the Ravens so far during his career. Suggs has great speed coming off the edge, just like Gholston.

I believe that Gholston will fall to the New York Jets at #6 in the NFL Draft on April 26. They only had 29 sacks last year and desperately need some pass rushing. Gholston fits perfectly into gang green's 3-4 system and should be an immediate impact player in New York. If he somehow falls past them at number six, the New England Patriots will probably scoop him up. They also play a 3-4 and he can replace recently let go Rosevelt Colvin on the outside.