10 Sleeper Defensive Linemen Bears Could Target In The NFL Draft

Matthew Ioannidis-Temple-DT

PLAYER OVERVIEW:

Matthew Ioannidis is another fit for what Fangio looks for in his defensive linemen, and the character traits John Fox loves in his football players. Nationally recognized with a senior bowl invite. Also was an all conference player as most of my sleeper prospects are. In this case first team in 2015. Better athlete than one may think. Very productive player for the Owls.

MEASUREABLES AND PRODUCTION:

As I mentioned he’s a better athlete than you might think. Had a RAS score above the NFL average for defensive tackles.  Had a very good combine with some nice measureables and moved well in his drills. Definitely fits the athletic profile of a Fangio defensive lineman. You can see his measureables here. As for his production here is a link to his college football reference page.

SCOUTING REPORT:

Positives: Tough hard nosed player that battles on the field like a gladiator. Has excellent strength and can take on double teams and hold his ground as well as any player in this draft. as you would expect has a great anchor to hold the edge should he be asked to play some 5 technique. Has long arms and huge hands that he uses to fend off any punch an offensive lineman can provide. Good hand fighter allows him to put on a little pass rush. Great tackler that has you tackled the second you get in his grips. Should be able to offer positional versatility as a tackle or an end in this system.

Negatives: Shorter than a typical 5 technique which could have him exclusively a defensive tackle. Although he has very little body fat he can be a bit stiff in the hips and has limited agility. Has to develop a better pass rush approach and work on some counters as it looks like he may be limited as a rotational tackle in run downs.

Next: Sleeper Defensive Lineman #4