DE Rankings: Nick Herbig

Last Updated: 08/19/2022

As we review the DE rankings, players have had the opportunity to raise their stock and move up the rankings. Before we jump into Nick Herbig, here’s a few reminders about the rankings themselves:

• The rankings will be updated throughout the season.
• Players who have not played college football are not eligible for the rankings.
• Players are graded on their college ability, not their pro potential.
• We are judging players on their film, production and physical tools.

You can view the College Football DE Rankings here.

Wisconsin edge rusher, Nick Herbig flashed his potential as a pass rusher during his true freshman season in 2020. He built on that success in 2021 delivering big performances in big games, like a 2 sack game against Notre Dame and a 2.5 sacks game against Iowa. Herbig was a regular in the offensive backfield, totaling 64 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 9 sacks, 4 pass breakups and 2 fumbles forced in 2021. He is a disruptive player off the edge, who is developing into a top flight pass rusher.

Herbig has quick feet and athleticism that makes him tough to block off the edge. He checks in at 6’2″ 227 lbs, but has the acceleration and agility to put pressure on bigger linemen and get them off balance. He blows by offensive linemen with his athleticism and has the balance and explosiveness to turn the corner and close on the quarterback. Herbig’s feet and agility make him dangerous on stunts and counter moves. Offensive linemen cannot square Herbig up and end up guessing or are too late to land a clean block on the talented edge rusher.

While his athleticism is big, Herbig plays with instincts and savvy that allow him to capitalize on those physical traits. He understands the defensive scheme, helping him to work efficiently within it. Herbig is developing an array of pass rushing moves that help him to maximize his effectiveness. He has a good feel for his responsibilities in the defensive scheme and is able to create disruptive plays within the defensive game-plan. His instincts help him feel the play developing and react quickly to the ball.

Nick Herbig still has plenty of untapped potential, but is becoming an impact pass rusher. He puts pressure on the opposing offense to account for him and makes disruptive plays consistently. Herbig is a defender that creates negative plays and earns the advantage for his defense. He is a promising player who is developing into one of the best edge players in college football.

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