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Chris Neild (West Virginia) - 2011 NFL Draft Pick #253 by WAS


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Chris Neild - 2011 NFL Draft

Position: Defensive Tackle
College: West Virginia University
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 310 lbs

Overview:

Chris Neild was a solid defensive tackle prospect coming out of West Virginia in the 2011 NFL Draft. Known for his strength and run-stopping ability, Neild was a key player for the Mountaineers' defense throughout his college career.

Strengths:

  • Strength: Neild possesses excellent upper and lower body strength, allowing him to hold his ground against double teams.
  • Run Defense: He has a reputation as a dominant run stopper, demonstrating the ability to clog running lanes effectively.
  • Motor: Neild plays with a high motor, often making plays down the line of scrimmage.
  • Football IQ: He has a good understanding of offensive schemes and can make quick decisions on the field.

Weaknesses:

  • Pass Rush: Neild lacks elite pass-rushing skills, which limited his effectiveness in obvious passing situations.
  • Quickness: While strong, his lateral quickness and agility are not top-tier, which may affect his ability to change direction quickly.
  • Injury History: There were concerns about his durability due to previous injuries during his college career.

Projection:

Neild was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, primarily due to his run-stopping abilities. Teams looking for depth on the defensive line or a solid rotational player would likely have him on their radar.

Conclusion:

Chris Neild was viewed as a reliable defensive tackle who could contribute to a team's run defense. His strengths outweighed his weaknesses for teams seeking a solid performer in the trenches.