Drew Sanders (LB) – Arkansas / Senior
6’4”, 235 Lbs. (Official)
2022 Stats: 12 Games, 40 Solo tackles, 63 Assists, 103 Total tackles, 13.5 Tackles for loss, 9.5 Sacks, 1 Interception, 5 Passes defended, 1 Fumble recovery, 3 Forced fumbles
{Reference: https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/drew-sanders-1.html}
Awards: 2022 Unanimous All-American, 2022 First Team All SEC
Measurables: Arm – 32-1/8, Hand – 9-3/4, Vertical – NA, Broad – NA, 40 – 4.53, 3 Cone – NA, RAS: NA
Games Watched: 2022 Vs. Texas A&M, 2022 Vs. Alabama
PRO’S
Length and range. Explosive off the edge, Sanders converts speed to power efficiently, capable of engaging with offensive linemen and driving them into the quarterback. Though Sanders is long, he is capable of dipping and getting below the extended reach of offensive linemen. Drew does two things quickly — changes direction reacts to the direction of the play as it develops. Sanders has good coverage instincts, rarely gets caught with his eyes in the backfield and his coverage responsibility running by him. Drew does a good job of getting between the receiver and the quarterback when positioning himself in coverage.
CON’S
Frame is light, worry about Sanders getting bullied by interior offensive linemen when lining up in the middle of the defense. Sanders uses his long arms to prevent offensive linemen from getting comfortable in their base and striking him, when he misses with his extension he is usually at a significant strength disadvantage. Would like to see Sanders develop a pass rush move or 2 as he tends to rely on either beating the offensive linemen with strictly power or speed. Quicker than fast, reacts quickly but long speed to close on quicker ball carriers is in question.
OVERALL
Drew started his career at the University of Alabama before transferring to Arkansas for his Senior season. Sanders is a versatile athletic linebacker with a relentless motor who is capable of going sideline to sideline to defend the run, come off the edge and stick to tight ends or releasing running backs in coverage. Though Sanders’ light frame is a concern of mine, I believe he has some room to add good/strong weight through strength training. In my opinion, Sanders still has some room to grow as a football player and I believe his best football is still ahead of him.
Completed by: @coachschepps, 03/29/23
Reviewed & edited: J. Clark, 03/29/23
