Vincent Valentine (Nebraska) - 2016 NFL Draft Pick #96 by NE
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Vincent Valentine (2016 NFL Draft)
Player Overview: Vincent Valentine is a defensive tackle who played college football at the University of Nebraska. Known for his size and strength, Valentine was a key player on the Cornhuskers' defensive line.
Physical Attributes:
- Height: 6 feet 4 inches
- Weight: 329 pounds
- Hand Size: 10 inches
- Arm Length: 32 inches
Strengths:
- Size and Strength: Valentine possesses an impressive frame that allows him to hold his ground against double teams.
- Run Stopping Ability: He exhibits strong run-stopping capabilities, using his bulk to clog running lanes effectively.
- Powerful Hands: His hand placement and strength enable him to disengage from blockers quickly.
Weaknesses:
- Pass Rush Production: While effective against the run, Valentine struggled to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback.
- Injury Concerns: Previous injuries raised questions about his durability and ability to contribute over a full season.
- Technique Consistency: At times, his technique was inconsistent, particularly in hand usage and pad level.
Overall Projection:
Vincent Valentine was projected as a mid-round selection in the 2016 NFL Draft. Teams valued his potential as a run-stuffing defensive tackle, but concerns about his pass-rushing ability and injuries could have impacted his draft stock. He was seen as a player who could develop into a solid contributor at the next level, particularly in a 3-4 defensive scheme where his strengths could be maximized.