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 Tommy Eichenberg.

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2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Tommy Eichenberg

Tommy Eichenberg (LB – Ohio State)

6’2″ – 236 lbs.

Background:

Brother Liam Eichenberg was a second-round pick of the Dolphins in 2021. Redshirted after four appearances as a true freshman and played just six snaps the following year. Then started four games in 2021, totaling 431 snaps and ending with 64 tackles (6.5 for loss). Had an incredibly efficient, productive 2022 campaign in which he totaled 120-12.0-2.5. Hasn’t been as efficient or productive this year and missed a few games, but still stuffed the stat sheet.

Positives:

Two-year starter with pro bloodlines and escalating production in a major program. Has adequate size for the modern game. Can play in the middle or on the weakside, showing impressive toughness and physicality. Reads keys quickly and generally does a good job of locating the football; almost always in the play. Takes solid angles in pursuit, and is willing to chase out to the sidelines. Keeps his shoulders square to the line when working to the football. Willing to step into the hole and take on blocks to seal rushing lanes. Gets good extension with his arms to take on blocks, showing heavy hands and good timing to disengage. Lower-body strength and contact balance are solid. Has missed under 11% of the tackles in his career, showing impressive stopping power and the ability to set the tone defensively. Closes quick when schemed lanes on blitzes/stunts, or when working as a quarterback spy.

Negatives:

Didn’t perform quite as well this year as he did in 2022. Not the quickest, most flexible or rangiest linebacker in the class and might be a middle/inside-only player at the next level, despite playing some weakside linebacker in college. Generally has a high football IQ but can be pulled up or away from zones by misdirection at times and lacks the raw athleticism to get back in position. Coverage responsibilities as a pro may be relatively limited; probably not the ideal player to shade over the slot, man up on tight ends or carry backs down the sidelines on wheel routes.

Summary:

May not be the flashiest pick in a class full of rangy, athletic linebackers, but is one of the most pro-ready, consistent prospects available. His ability to read keys, locate and work through traffic to get to the football stands out relative to his peers, with excellent senior-year tape in particular. Those traits could eventually make him a starting middle or inside linebacker at the pro level and should allow him to receive consideration on the second day of the draft if teams think he’ll recover his 2022 form.

Projection: Round 3-4