Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

E.J. Speed (Tarleton St.) - 2019 NFL Draft Pick #164 by IND

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Pre-Draft Analysis for E.J. Speed - 2019 NFL Draft

Player Overview: E.J. Speed is a linebacker from Tarleton State University, known for his athleticism, speed, and versatility on the field. Standing at 6'3" and weighing around 220 pounds, Speed showcased his skills in college, making him an intriguing prospect for the NFL.

• Position: Linebacker
• College: Tarleton State
• Height: 6'3"
• Weight: 220 lbs

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: E.J. Speed possesses exceptional speed for a linebacker, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make plays across the field.
• Versatility: He has the ability to play multiple linebacker positions, making him a valuable asset for teams looking for depth and flexibility.
• Strong Tackling: Speed demonstrates solid tackling technique, often bringing down ball carriers effectively.
• Pass Coverage: His athleticism translates well to pass coverage, making him a suitable candidate for modern defensive schemes that require linebackers to drop into coverage.

Weaknesses:

• Experience Level: Coming from a smaller program like Tarleton State, Speed may lack the level of competition experience compared to players from more prominent schools.
• Run Defense: While he shows promise, there are concerns about his ability to shed blocks against bigger offensive linemen.
• Consistency: There are moments where Speed's performance fluctuates, and he needs to improve his overall consistency on the field.

Overall Analysis:

E.J. Speed is an intriguing prospect with a lot of potential due to his athleticism and versatility. While he may need to adjust to the NFL's level of competition, his speed and coverage abilities make him a player to watch. Teams looking for a linebacker who can contribute on special teams and develop into a reliable starter may find value in selecting Speed during the later rounds of the 2019 NFL Draft.