Damon Wilson: Scouting Report
Pos: Defensive End
Team: Undecided
Class: 2023
Size
Damon Wilson has solid height for a defensive end prospect, but has the length needed to play on the edge. He has added bulk to his frame over the course of his career and should continue to fill out. He fits the mold of a pass rushing outside linebacker or a weak side defensive end. Wilson has the length and frame to excel as a pass rusher off the edge.
Athleticism
Wilson has elite athleticism as an edge player. He is a twitchy athlete, who gets off the ball with excellent burst. Wilson has the quickness and bend needed to thrive combined with good functional strength. He has plenty of speed in the open field and can close on ball carriers that try to out-race him to the edge.
Pass Rushing Ability
Wilson’s get off at the snap makes him a nightmare to pass protect against. He gets up-field so quickly that offensive linemen are off balance or over compensate. Wilson can beat blockers with speed around the edge, but also shows effective power rush ability and a good speed to power to speed combination. He engages well with his hands controlling the contact and disengaging to get to the quarterback.
Run Defense
Wilson has proven that he can hold up well in the run game as well. He has the functional strength and technique to take on blockers at the point of attack then disengage to make the play. Wilson understands the scheme well, knowing when he should close on the ball carrier and when he is responsible for holding the edge. He thrives on stretch plays, where he is able to string out the play and pursue the ball carrier through the sideline for a loss or minimal gain.
Scheme/Fit
Wilson is best suited for an odd front as an extra rusher off the edge, or for four man fronts that allow for one of their ends to be more of a hybrid player. His athleticism and explosiveness would be best utilized in one of these roles, though Wilson is certainly capable of playing as a tradition 4 – 3 defensive end if needed.
Projection
Damon Wilson is an elite pass rusher with the potential to be a game-changing player. He has the burst, athleticism and motor to wreak havoc in the offensive backfield. Wilson’s athleticism and advanced technique will make him a handful for blockers to handle at any level, and he is likely to become one of the best ends in college football.
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