Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Elijah Qualls (Washington) - 2017 NFL Draft Pick #214 by PHI

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Elijah Qualls (2017 NFL Draft)

Player Overview:
Elijah Qualls was a highly regarded defensive tackle from the University of Washington, known for his explosive athleticism and versatility on the defensive line. Standing at 6'1" and weighing around 313 pounds, Qualls showcased the ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his quickness and strength. Strengths:

• Quick First Step: Qualls possesses an impressive first step off the line of scrimmage, allowing him to penetrate into the backfield and disrupt plays.
• Strong Lower Body: His lower body strength aids him in holding his ground against double teams and enables him to shed blockers effectively.
• Versatility: Qualls has the capability to play multiple positions along the defensive line, making him a valuable asset in various defensive schemes.
• Motor: Demonstrates a relentless motor, consistently pursuing plays and showing effort until the whistle blows.
• Run Defense: Strong against the run, capable of clogging up running lanes and making tackles for loss.

Weaknesses:

• Height: At 6'1", he lacks the ideal height for a defensive tackle, which could limit his leverage against taller offensive linemen.
• Pass Rush Technique: While he has potential, his pass-rushing technique needs refinement to maximize his effectiveness as a disruptor in the passing game.
• Inconsistency: Qualls has shown flashes of brilliance but can be inconsistent at times, which raises questions about his ability to perform at a high level consistently in the NFL.

Projected Impact:
Elijah Qualls was projected to be a mid-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. His combination of athleticism, strength, and versatility made him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their defensive line. He had the potential to contribute as a rotational player early in his career, with the possibility of developing into a more significant role as he refined his technique and consistency. Conclusion:
Qualls was viewed as a promising prospect with the tools to succeed at the next level. His ability to disrupt the run game and his potential for versatility were key factors in his evaluation heading into the draft.