By: Michael Higgins

School: University of Alabama

Position: EDGE

HT: 6’4

WT: 243 lbs

Sideline Prospect Ranking: #1

 Will Anderson Jr. is one of the most exciting prospects that we have seen in recent drafts. Anderson combines an intriguing blend of speed and physicality off the line to overwhelm blockers and shed blocks. The Edge rusher is better suited on the line, rather than as a standup linebacker who can be seen occasionally dropping back into coverage. He is a finesse pass rusher that has plenty of bend but can bull rush blockers if need be. Anderson is an extremely versatile rusher that was utilized in a variety of ways during his time at Alabama. He lined up on the interior as a 3-tech, while also playing as a standup linebacker in 3-4, or as a traditional edge rusher in 4-3 sets. His ability to bounce off blockers in order to invade the pocket is on display every snap. It seems as if not even the elite O-linemen can hold Anderson off for more than a full second. Anderson doesn’t wait for the OL to make a move, he simply goes at them, attacks them, and goes through them. Due to his status, Anderson is often facing double teams, but is still able to hurry the QB or get a tackle behind the line of scrimmage. While Anderson is clearly his best when rushing the passer, he is also a top-tier run defender. He has an ability to push offensive linemen back and meet the ball carrier in the backfield. Anderson uses his strength in creative ways and doesn’t waste any energy. Anderson is able to attack gaps on the interior while disrupting the edge on wide zone concepts.

An absolute game wrecker, there aren’t many flaws to Anderson’s game. With these top prospects, you have to get a bit picky. Anderson could afford to become a more consistent run defender. At points he gets knocked back off the line and is unable to shed blocks in time to get to the ball carrier. I believe this could come with NFL coaching if he is able to harness a bit more speed and add a few pounds of muscle.

Overall, many view Will Anderson Jr. to be a generational edge prospect. While it is too soon to say he’s a star in the making, he is an incredibly safe pick at the top of the draft and should make a high level impact right away for whoever is able to draft him.

Scheme Fit: 4-3 Zone

Ideal Role: 4-3 EDGE

Best Team Fits: HOU, CHI, ARI

Player Grade: 94.3