Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (Notre Dame) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #52 by CLE
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah
College: Notre Dame
- Position: Linebacker
- Height: 6'1"
- Weight: 221 lbs
- Class: Junior
Overview
Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah was considered one of the most dynamic defensive players in the 2021 NFL Draft class. Known for his versatility and athleticism, he emerged as a standout linebacker during his time at Notre Dame, showcasing the ability to impact the game both in coverage and against the run.
Strengths
- Versatility: Owusu-Koramoah can line up at multiple positions, including linebacker and safety, making him a valuable asset for defensive schemes that emphasize hybrid roles.
- Speed and Agility: His quickness allows him to cover ground rapidly, making him effective in sideline-to-sideline pursuit and in pass coverage against dynamic offensive players.
- Instincts: He demonstrates a high football IQ, allowing him to read plays and react quickly, which contributes to his ability to make tackles for loss and disrupt passing lanes.
- Coverage Skills: Owusu-Koramoah's ability to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game sets him apart from traditional linebackers, making him a three-down player.
Weaknesses
- Size: At 221 pounds, some scouts expressed concerns about his ability to shed blocks against larger offensive linemen and running backs, which could limit his effectiveness in run defense.
- Consistency: While he flashed immense potential, Owusu-Koramoah needed to show more consistency in his tackling technique and decision-making under pressure.
Overall Assessment
Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah was widely regarded as a first-round talent in the 2021 NFL Draft, praised for his unique skill set and the ability to adapt to various defensive schemes. Teams looking for a modern linebacker capable of contributing in both coverage and run defense were particularly intrigued by his potential impact at the next level.
As a result, Owusu-Koramoah was projected to be an early selection, with many analysts believing he could reshape how teams utilize linebackers in the evolving landscape of the NFL.