I can't help but like this guy. I'm claiming him as my binky.
Disclaimer #1: I'm no football scout.
Disclaimer #2: Most of the video I've seen of him is playing rugby, not football.
BUT, this is what I did see:
- quick/accelerates well/changes direction quickly: when he has the ball (is that what they call it in rugby?) I saw him get up to speed fast and make several defenders miss in the open field. This could make him valuable as a punt/kick returner. When the other team had the ball he was able to close on the opponent quickly and change direction to match their movements and make the tackle. This could make him valuable on kick off/punt coverages or even as a safety. In an interview he stated that he loves getting down the field fast and hitting somebody.
(Runs a 4.48-4.55s 40-yd dash)
- solid tackling skills: he really wraps up his opponent and brings them down. He doesn't make flashy highlight-reel moves, he just gets his arms around the guy and pulls him down. There's something really thorough and sure about his tackling. It kind of reminded me of Nate Solder pancake-blocking Cameron Wake in Miami last season (not in technique, but in thorougness). Anyway, this would obviously be valuable on defense or kick coverage.
- tough guy and well conditioned: If you're going to play rugby, you have to be tough and able to take a hit. He got nailed at one point and came up with a bloody nose, but continued as if nothing happened. Also, if you're going to play rugby at all, much less rugby AND football, you've got to be in good shape. Plus, it's been reported that he's a workout fiend (23 reps on the bench at his pro day).
Add to this his intangible/character traits: He's a leader, and his teammates seem to respect and listen to him. He inspired his team with a speech after a tough loss and motivated them with the motto "Finish Strong", which sounds like the kind of motto Belichick introduces every year to the team. He seems to be a humble guy who does everything with passion and purpose.
Like I said, I can't help but like the guy and I hope he can contribute to the team, even if it's only on special teams. We'll just have to see how his rugby and little bit of college football skills and experience translate into the pros.
