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10 Sleeper Defensive Linemen Bears Could Target In The NFL Draft

By Johnny Hatelak

Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Appalachian State defensive lineman Ronald Blair participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Appalachian State defensive lineman Ronald Blair participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Joel Heath-Michigan State-DT

Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Joel Heath (92) Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Joel Heath (92) Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

PLAYER OVERVIEW:

Joel Heath plays the game the way John Fox and Ryan Pace like their payers to play. With a high motor and non stop intensity from snap to whistle. Heath is a converted defensive end so he comes to the NFL as a very athletic defensive tackle. His combine numbers will show that as I’ll post the link in the next section. Came to Michigan State a highly ranked defensive end out of high school and did not produce so was moved to tackle and flourished. That move will put him in the NFL living his dream possibly with the Chicago Bears as there is a fit and a need for a defensive tackle with his profile.

MEARUREABLES AND PRODUCTION:

As mentioned above Heath has very good athleticism that fits right in with what Fangio likes in his defensive linemen. Had a heck of a day at the combine posting very athletic numbers for a defensive tackle, and moving more like an edge player than a tackle. Here are his results for the Combine. He has produced since moving to tackle too. You can see his numbers here.

SCOUTING REPORT:

Positives: Heath brings a lot of traits to the table, but his biggest trait is probably his leadership on and off the field. Gives max effort in the weight room, film room, and the practice field to go along with game days. Has long arms and big hands that he uses to punch and jolt blockers as well as wrestle down ball carriers and get quarterbacks to the ground once he gets his hands on them. Quick as a cat, and plays with good pad level. Very high football IQ as well and recognizes offensive line schemes before they’re executed and able to get the jump on plays. Has a chance to be a better pro than collegian since his position switch came relatively late in his career with the Spartans.

Negtives: Although he has a chance to be better as a pro because of his learning curve he still has that learning curve and may take longer to mature than someone who’s been playing it from the get go. Also has to get stronger and live in the weight room as he tends to get washed out once a linemen gets good hand position on him.


Next: 10 Sleeper Offensive Line Prospects


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