Shelby Harris (Illinois St.) - 2014 NFL Draft Pick #235 by OAK
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Shelby Harris - 2014 NFL Draft
College: Illinois State
Overview
Shelby Harris was considered a talented defensive lineman coming out of Illinois State. His size, athleticism, and versatility made him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their defensive front.
Strengths
- Size and Length: Harris possesses a solid frame with long arms, making him difficult to block.
- Versatility: He demonstrated the ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line, including defensive tackle and defensive end.
- Pass-Rushing Ability: Harris showed promise as a pass rusher, capable of penetrating the backfield and creating pressure on the quarterback.
- Motor and Effort: Known for his high motor, he consistently chased plays downfield and gave maximum effort on every snap.
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent Technique: At times, his technique would break down, leading to missed tackles and blown assignments.
- Work Ethic Concerns: There were questions regarding his commitment to training and preparation during his college career.
- Injury History: Harris had a few injury setbacks during his time at Illinois State, raising concerns about his durability at the next level.
Draft Projection
Harris was projected to be a mid to late-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. His combination of size and athletic ability made him an appealing option for teams looking for depth along the defensive line, though concerns about his technique and work ethic could cause him to slip further than expected.
Conclusion
Shelby Harris was seen as a raw but promising player who could develop into a solid contributor at the professional level if he could refine his technique and address his commitment to the game.