FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at Florida State defensive lineman Braden Fiske.
2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Braden Fiske
Braden Fiske (DL – Florida State)
6’5″ – 297 lbs.
Background:
Two-star recruit who originally committed to Western Michigan, where he spent the first five years of his collegiate career. Barely played in 2018, then saw his role expand every year afterward. Posted 24-2.0-1.0 and 23-5.5-2.5 in the two following seasons, the first as a rotational reserve and the second as a starter in the shortened 2020 season. Saw his output spike in the two subsequent seasons, with 42-7.5-4.0 and 59-12.0-6.0 lines, then transferred to Florida State and posted 43-9.0-6.0 this past year.
Positives:
Has been a starter for the past four seasons and showed that he could produce against a higher level of competition this year. Tall defensive lineman who took snaps all over the line; plays the five-technique on odd fronts and can play anything from the zero to three-technique on four-man lines. Plays with a tough, physical temperament. Shows some quickness out of his stance to threaten gaps. Good overall level of activity in his hands. Locates the football pretty quickly and flashes the ability to make tackles when engaged. Powerful hands allow him to discard blockers effectively. Has an excellent motor in pursuit. Brings intensity as a rusher and has been effective on stunts and twists. Shows the ability to knife through gaps, with impressive closing speed when he finds a lane to the passer. Can grind down opposing linemen when he gets his feet churning. Gets his hands up to actively contest passing games.
Negatives:
Has been in school for six years, so he’s older than your typical prospect. As a taller defensive lineman, leverage can be an issue, especially because he tends to play high. Lower-body flexibility isn’t the best. Overall anchor strength is closer to adequate. Some issues with balance, as he can get too aggressive and overextend; contact balance is also closer to average. Lapses into throwing his body around at times, rather than using his length to lock out and control blockers. Doesn’t always look like he has a clear plan when rushing the passer. Tends to get stuck around the line of scrimmage, idling when his initial move doesn’t succeed; could stand to develop more counters.
Summary:
An experienced, productive defensive lineman with very good size and the intensity and toughness to endear himself to defensive line coaches. His height can sometimes be a liability, as he’s not the most flexible player in his lower body, which can make it difficult for him to win the leverage battle and lead to some balance issues. Consequently, will probably function best as the five-technique on a three-man line, where his frame is better suited. Could work well on a team that calls a lot of stunt/twist concepts upfront.
Projection: Round 5
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