As the college football season barrels toward, FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at Johan Elliss.

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2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jonah Elliss

Jonah Elliss (DE – Utah)

6-foot-2 | 246 pounds.

Background:

Father was and three brothers are currently in the NFL. Three-star recruit who rotated into the defense for 118 snaps as a freshman, totaling 15 tackles and a sack, then saw his role greatly expand the following year, starting most of the season and posting 26-6.0-3.0 on 394 snaps. Had an outstanding junior season line of 37-16.0-12.0 before sustaining a season-ending injury late in the year (last appearance was Week 11 against Washington.)

Positives:

Has extensive pro bloodlines. Really broke out this past season with an excellent year as a stand-up edge. Appears to have better length than usual for a player of his size. Really brings it on a snap-to-snap basis, with tone-setting urgency. Awareness and play recognition skills are strong; limits false steps. Active with his hands to keep defenders out of his pads. Shows the ability to play off of blocks and make tackles while engaged. Flexible with good extension and knee-bend when playing out of a three-point stance. Closes quickly when he has a clear path to the ball.

Fast edge rusher who gets up to top speed quickly and shows a high motor in pursuit. Knows how to change speeds and use his hands and suddenness to set up blockers. Hand use overall is advanced for a true junior. Shows the leg drive and leverage to compete as a bull-rusher. Violent, controlled spin is a potential go-to move. Nice controlled footwork and balance when dropping into zones.

Negatives:

A bit on the small side for a pro edge defender, with a relatively thin build, especially in the lower body. May not be a great fit for teams that run even fronts without regularly blitzing the linebackers. Contact balance is closer to adequate. Usually relies on his athleticism and hand use to get where he needs, rather than grinding down blockers with his (very effective) bull rush. Can occasionally get too aggressive as an edge rusher, leading to balance issues. Needs to continue developing his repertoire of counters.

Summary:

Checks almost every box conceivable for a player with his build. Plays fast, with urgency and awareness, and shows impressive technique and hand use for a true junior. After a breakout junior year, teams should feel confident with what he offers as a stand-up edge rusher behind an odd (or even) defensive front and should come off the board within the top fifty or so picks, assuming his medicals check out.

Projection: Round 2