Chicago Bears Draft Scout: Marquis Haynes
Is EDGE rusher Marquis Haynes a potential fit for the Chicago Bears defense?
Marquis Haynes came to Ole Miss and got out of the gates swinging, putting up 7.5 sacks as a freshman while being named to the All-SEC Freshman team. As a sophomore, he expanded on that with a 10 sack season that featured 15 tackles for loss. However, that season ended up being his peak statistically. In his last two seasons he was named second team All-SEC. However, those seasons saw 11 tackles for loss, and seven and 7.5 sacks respectively. Still, after four years of production, does he fit with the Chicago Bears defense?
Measurables:
Age: 23
Schoo: Ole Miss
Strengths
Marquis Haynes is a speed rusher. He wins by getting out of the breaks quick and hustling to the football. He has range laterally and can get out in space if necessary. His skill set can be shown in the play below. Haynes explodes into the backfield. The pulling tight end forces his route outside, but his hustle and relentless pursuit to the quarterback chases him down from behind for the sack. This is typical Haynes behavior. He is always near the ball by the end of the play.
Haynes also has some pass rushing tools to work with. Being able to get out of his stance quick also allows him to win with leverage. Watch how he is able to get his hands on the defender with good form, and drive the defender back. He is winning with speed and leverage.
Weaknesses
There have to be real questions about whether or not he can hold up against the run. Haynes does not have great size for the position. He is lean and does not make an impact with power. On the outside, if tackles do get their hands on him first ,they can completely re-route him.
He can also be sealed off against guards. Haynes needs to protect the edge in the play below. However, he is unable to get anywhere as a tight end holds him off.
He also does not have a full arsenal of pass rushing moves. Usually if he is not a step ahead in his pursuit, he is having to catch up from behind.