Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Jacob Phillips (LSU) - 2020 NFL Draft Pick #97 by CLE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Jacob Phillips - 2020 NFL Draft

Player Overview: Jacob Phillips is a linebacker who played for the LSU Tigers, showcasing a blend of speed, agility, and football IQ. He was recognized for his ability to diagnose plays quickly and his effectiveness in both run defense and pass coverage.

• Height: 6'3"
• Weight: 229 lbs
• College: Louisiana State University (LSU)

Strengths:

• Speed and Athleticism: Phillips possesses excellent straight-line speed, allowing him to cover ground quickly and pursue ball carriers effectively.
• Instincts: He has a strong ability to read plays, making him a reliable linebacker in both run and pass situations.
• Coverage Skills: Demonstrated capability in pass coverage, especially in zone schemes, which is increasingly valuable in the modern NFL.
• Physicality: Phillips plays with a physical edge, not shying away from contact and displaying strong tackling ability.

Areas for Improvement:

• Consistency: While Phillips has shown flashes of brilliance, he needs to improve his consistency in tackling and coverage to become a reliable starter.
• Block Shedding: Needs to work on disengaging from blocks more effectively to stay in plays and make tackles.
• Experience: Limited experience in certain defensive schemes could require a transitional period as he adapts to the NFL level.

Overall Assessment: Jacob Phillips is a versatile linebacker with the potential to develop into a solid starter at the professional level. With his speed and instincts, he has the tools to succeed, but he will need to refine his skills in order to maximize his impact on the field. Teams looking for an athletic linebacker with coverage abilities should consider Phillips as a valuable addition to their roster in the 2020 NFL Draft.