FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at Houston defensive end Nelson Ceaser.
2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Nelson Ceaser
Nelson Ceaser (DE – Houston)
6’3″ – 250 lbs.
Background:
Nelson Ceaser was a four-star recruit who made one tackle in each of his first two seasons (2019 and 2020.) Became more of a regular member of the rotation the following year — 22-4.0-3.5 over 313 snaps. Broke out the following year with 36-10.0-4.0. He then took another step forward in the Big 12 this year (43-13.5-9.5).
Positives:
A productive two-year starter and three-year contributor. Despite average size, typically lines up in a four-point stance on the left end of a three-man line, but will take snaps standing up as well (Houston essentially runs a four-man front with one of the edge players in a two-point stance.) Shows impressive quickness out of his stance to threaten gaps with inside moves; his first step is one of his major strengths. Plays with good knee bend and a tough temperament in the run game. Leverage and functional strength allow him to hold the point of attack better than anticipated. Active with his hands, showed the suddenness to keep defenders out of his frame and sift through traffic. Very good motor in pursuit and is an above-average athlete in terms of his range. Relentless as a pass-rusher. Does a good job of mixing up his rush approach and showing opponents different things. Able to dip his shoulder effectively when working around the edge. Overall arc looks smooth. Has a compact spin move that could be viable at the next level.
Negatives:
Despite a much better sack total, he didn’t generate pressure as consistently this season. Size and length look closer to adequate for a pro edge. Awareness and ability to locate the football are a work in progress. Gap discipline is an issue in his run fits; tends to get sucked in, allowing opposing runners to win the edge. Gets frozen by read-options. Rush-first approach can also compromise the team’s run defense. Lets his center of gravity rise at times, which can impact his anchor strength. Doesn’t have a power element to his pass-rush game.
Summary:
An interesting prospect who has a very good first step, a pretty diverse repertoire of rush moves and better functional strength than anticipated. Those traits could eventually make him an effective situational pass-rusher off the edge at the next level. That said, his lack of ideal size and issues with gap discipline may prevent him from contributing in the run game, at least early in his career. Would fit best in an aggressive one-gap scheme and should be a mid-round consideration.
Projection: Round 5
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