NFL Draft Profile: Arizona State DE Marcus Hardison

Share

As part of our coverage leading up to the 2015 NFL Draft we will provide profiles of 200 prospects, including what the scouts around the league are saying and video interviews with each player.

Marcus Hardison (DE), Arizona State

6’3” | 307 lbs.

2014 stats:

53 tackles, 15 TFL, 10 sacks, 2 INT, 3 forced fumbles

Projection:

3rd round

What scouts are saying:

"A defensive end turned three-technique in a 4-3 defense with outstanding initial quickness off the snap and the hands and feet to be a disruptive, upfield player against plodding guards. Hardison needs more muscle in his lower body and is unlikely to fit defensive schemes looking for stack-and-shed interior defenders. Hardison has starting potential and might be able to come in as a situational pass rusher early on." - NFL.com's Lance Zierlein

"Consistently times snap, and has the quick twitch to turn this trait into a quick penetration and win from inside. Has good arm length. Understands how to keep blockers away from his frame as pass rusher and brings force behind his hands. Rarely square as a pass rusher, using shoulder and hip turn to get skinny and turn corner. Good hand fighter. Comes out of stance with low pad level and looks to capture an edge against the run. Puts something behind his tackles. Showed rapid improvement from midpoint of season all the way through Senior Bowl week." - NFL.com's Lance Zierlein

"More finesse than physical. Isn't as stout against the run as his size would indicate and struggles against double-teams. Relies upon his initial burst to penetrate, showing limited hand technique and strength to disengage once opponents lock on. Possesses only average balance for his position, too often getting knocked off his feet. Comes with typical one-year-wonder questions about his dedication and if the same intensity will be there after signing an NFL contract." - CBS Sports' Rob Rang

Fit for the Bears:

Ryan Pace & Co. already signed DEs Jarvis Jenkins and Ray McDonald this offseason, but their future beyond next season remains unclear with one-year contracts. The Bears will likely look for a defensive end in the 2015 NFL Draft who can fit right into Vic Fangio's 3-4 defense. Hardison could make for a good pick by the Bears on Day 2 — a player that has starting potential.

Click here for more NFL Draft Profiles

Contact Us