5.) Curt Maggitt-Tennessee
Curt Maggitt is a relentless ball of energy. Intense player that did not play as much as one would like because of injuries dogging him. That’s the single biggest reason why he’s on this list. Recovering from a chipped bone in his hip that may even prevent his being a drafted player. He also had an ACL tear in 2013. There are off field concerns too as he is currently involved in a lawsuit where he’s alleged to have punched teammate Drae Bowles because Bowles helped out a rape victim who was allegedly assaulted by two Tennessee players. So the red flags are flying everywhere.
On the field however (when healthy) he’s a beast. His production when playing was nothing short of amazing. This from CBS.
"Maggitt (rhymes with “legit”) has been standing out for the Vols since his true freshman campaign when he finished tied for third on the team with 56 stops despite starting just eight games. Unfortunately, injuries have limited his production since, forcing him to miss the entire 2013 season as he recovered from a torn ACL. Maggitt returned with a vengeance last year, pacing the Vols (and ranking third in the SEC) with 11 sacks, with 15 of his 48 tackles coming behind the line of scrimmage."
Aside from his relentless motor and intensity he does bring some excellent physical traits. Although there are no recorded measureables because of injuries when you see him on the field it’s undeniable he’s an élite athlete. First class explosion, speed, strength, and lateral agility. Not much he has to work on as a player. He also has positional versatility. Played as a DE on passing downs, played MIKE, and SAM, and could likely easily play WILL in a 4-3, but without a doubt could find his way in an OLB rotation on the Bears. If they can live with his injury issues, and that very disturbing incident where he had the back of teammates that were accused of rape. He could be a real good value late in the draft or even as a UDFA.
Next: Sleeper Edge Defender #4