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Leighton Vander Esch (Boise St.) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #19 by DAL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Leighton Vander Esch (2018 NFL Draft)

Leighton Vander Esch, a linebacker from Boise State, garnered significant attention leading up to the 2018 NFL Draft. Here’s a comprehensive analysis of his strengths, weaknesses, and overall potential:

Strengths:

• Physical Attributes: Vander Esch possesses an ideal linebacker frame at 6'4" and 256 pounds, combining size with athleticism.
• Speed and Agility: He showcases impressive speed for a linebacker, allowing him to cover ground quickly and sideline-to-sideline.
• Instincts: Vander Esch has a keen understanding of the game, demonstrating excellent instincts in reading plays and reacting accordingly.
• Tackling Ability: He is a sure tackler, often wrapping up opponents effectively and minimizing yards after contact.
• Versatility: Vander Esch has the capability to play multiple linebacker positions and can contribute in various defensive schemes.

Weaknesses:

• Injury History: Vander Esch dealt with some injury concerns during his collegiate career, raising questions about his durability at the professional level.
• Experience: With only one season as a starter at Boise State, there are concerns about his limited experience against high-level competition.
• Pass Coverage: While he has shown promise, there's still room for improvement in his ability to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game.

Overall Potential:

Leighton Vander Esch was projected as a first-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft due to his combination of size, speed, and football intelligence. His ability to contribute immediately on defense and special teams made him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps.

Many analysts viewed him as a potential impact player who could develop into a leader on defense. His upside was significant, and teams were excited about his potential to thrive in the right system.