Haason Reddick was a starting linebacker at Temple University in Philadelphia. Temple had one of the best defenses in the American Athletic Conference for the past few years under Head Coach Matt Rhule, who now coaches at Baylor University. In 2016 Reddick helped to propel the Temple Owls to their second straight AAC championship game, which they proceeded to win against Navy. By winning that game, they punched a ticket to the Military Bowl, where they lost to Wake Forrest 34-26. Among most draft analysts and pundits, Reddick is generally considered one of the best linebackers in this year’s draft, and a probable first round pick. Following the early retirement of Zachary Orr, the Baltimore Ravens are in the market for a new starting inside linebacker, and Haason Reddick may be used to fill that opening. Despite all of these factors, the question still remains, “Is Haason Reddick worth a first round pick?”
Strengths
Haason Reddick, as previously mentioned, is considered one of the best linebackers in this year’s draft. His best attribute is his speed. I first took note of his speed at the combine this year, where he ran a 4.52 second 40 yard dash. His impressive time was backed up by what I saw on his film. He was able to track down the ball carrier with ease, enabling him to make explosive plays, especially in the backfield. He is a very gifted run stuffer. Last season alone, he put up a total of 22.5 tackles for loss. He is also a talented pass rusher, sacking the quarterback 9.5 times last season. His speed and quickness off the snap is impeccable, and one of the main factors for his outstanding play on defense. Finally, playing at Temple gives him valuable experience. Temple was one of the best defenses, and the Ravens already know what Temple products can do based on the performance of cornerback Tavon Young last year.
Weaknesses
One of the major weaknesses that kept popping up over and over again while watching Reddick’s tape was his tendency to miss tackles. Too many times did I watch Reddick get right to the quarterback, or running back, go to make a huge tackle, and miss. This trend is mainly a product of his arm tackle style of tackling. He relies too much on his arms, and all too often makes the fatal mistake of not wrapping up the ball carrier. This can cause him to miss some major opportunities for game changing plays. He also has a habit of over pursuing the quarterback or ball carrier. Many times while watching film I saw Reddick burst into the backfield, only to have the ball carrier make a quick readjustment and escape his clutches. Reddick will need to be more patient, and wait for the ball carrier to make a move, before he makes a move on the ball carrier. Finally, he often tends to rely on his fellow defenders to help him make plays. Much of his highlights and statistics are because of assistance from his teammates. I’m not saying this is a bad thing, but caution should be taken when evaluating his highlight plays.
His Fit on the Ravens
If the Ravens decide that Kamalei Correa is too much of a gamble to hedge their bets on as the next starting inside linebacker, or they feel that Reddick is just flat out better, they should absolutely draft him. Reddick would bring tons of talent and ability to the defense in 2017, and Ozzie Newsome and the Ravens front office knows that. However, Newsome will probably be uncomfortable drafting him early. If he can trade back a few picks into the late first round, he may pull the trigger and draft this prolific linebacker from Temple.
Rating
Overall, I give Haason Reddick a 4.3/5.0 Prospect Rating. He is an early 2nd round talent, projected to be drafted in the first round, meaning if the Ravens want to snag him, they will likely have to reach for him in the late first round. He is an explosive play maker, specializing in behind the line of scrimmage tackles and sacks, but has some major weaknesses surrounding him going into the NFL Draft. If the Baltimore Ravens want to add on to an already exceptional defense, they definitely should draft Reddick, but only at the right spot, and if Reuben Foster is already off the board.
