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Jesse Mahelona (Tennessee) - 2006 NFL Draft Pick #169 by TEN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Jesse Mahelona - 2006 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Jesse Mahelona
• Position: Defensive Tackle
• College: University of Tennessee
• Height: 6'2"
• Weight: 290 lbs

Strengths:

• Mahelona displayed exceptional strength and power on the defensive line, making him a formidable presence against both the run and pass.
• His quick first step allowed him to penetrate the offensive line, often disrupting plays in the backfield.
• Possessing good agility for his size, he was able to maneuver around blockers effectively.
• Mahelona demonstrated a high motor and relentless effort, consistently chasing plays down the line of scrimmage.

Weaknesses:

• Concerns about his height and overall size compared to other top defensive tackles, which might limit his ability to handle double teams at the next level.
• Inconsistent technique; at times, he relied more on strength than refined skills, which could be exploited by more technically sound offensive linemen.
• Injury history raised some red flags regarding his durability over a full NFL season.

Overall Assessment:

Jesse Mahelona was viewed as a player with a significant upside due to his physical attributes and work ethic. While he faced challenges regarding his size and technique, his raw talent and potential made him an intriguing prospect for teams needing depth along the defensive line. Many analysts projected him as a mid-round selection, with the possibility of becoming a solid contributor in a rotational role or as a starter in the right system.