Quote:
Originally Posted by CowboysLaw87
This. He's a strange fit here now. At 6'4 250, he's a DE or SOLB. Problem is he isn't a quick twitch pass rusher (he was brought in as more of a run-stopping variety 3-4 OLB). He also doesn't possess the speed and coverage ability Monte likes in his LB's.
Sounds like a guy you can get by with a bit at either spot, but don't want him there long-term. Unfortunate.
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There was not really a consensus in the scouting reports. The primary issue where all the reports seemed to agree was that he needed to get stronger.
I just highlighted the good points. I would highlight he negatives in red, but that does not work anymore.
NFL:
Overview
Wilber is a big, athletic and strong outside linebacker from Wake Forest who looks the part of a pro defender. He arrived at Wake Forest as a top recruit from Florida, bringing his impressive size and speed to the defense. He is a bit of a poor man's Aaron Curry, whom he played with early in his career. He is a high-energy, high-motor player who hasn't played much on special teams at Wake Forest because of the team's needs, but he could easily contribute there at the next level. Look for a team needing linebacker depth and special teams contributions to select him in the late rounds and potentially develop him into a starter.
Analysis
Strengths
Wilber is fast and can move quickly once he deciphers a play.
He is very quick-twitched and efficient in his movements. He uses his footwork and
agility to stay off blocks on the second level. He doesn't have a ton of strength, but he hits his gaps hard and can pack a punch at the line of scrimmage when he meets running backs. He is better against the run than he is against the pass, but he can play over the tight end well enough to disrupt him early. He has good technique both in his footwork and tackling form.
Weaknesses
Wilber is atheltic, but he struggles in space against the run. He has a bit of an awkward pass drop, and his flexibility is an issue in those exposures. Wilber also is a much better player against outside runs than inside, and he has a tough time using his hands to disengage from blockers.
Scouts Inc.
Instincts/Recognition
Overall instincts are solid. Plays with his eyes and makes a quick diagnosis and reaction to the ball. Possesses good field awareness and has a natural feel for situations. Maintains good discipline against play-action and flashes ability to sniff out screens. Has experience dropping into coverage but will need coaching and development in terms of angles and route recognition in his drops.
Take-on Skills
"Tough and does not back down from challenges. Flashes quick hands and can lock out blockers with his arms. However, needs to get stronger in the upper body. Did not see the quick-twitched explosive point of attack skills on tape. Can get engulfed by bigger and more massive offensive lineman when caught in a phone booth. "
Range vs. Run
Overall range is solid for size. Displays adequate lateral agility and change of direction skills. Closing burst is above average and can work down the line of scrimmage and make plays from the backside. Also does a nice job of wading through traffic in pursuit.
Tackling
Long arms give him a wide range as a tackler. Fundamentally sound and wraps up upon contact. Flashes ability to deliver heavy hit but did not see the explosive striking ability on tape. Will have some limitations against quicker and more elusive runners when caught in a one-on-one situation in space.
3rd Down Capabilities
"
Best attribute in this area will be as a pass-rusher. Has ample experience playing with his hand in the dirt and displays natural pass rushing ability. Possesses an above-average initial get off and flashes ability to bend the edge and shave the corner. Also displays a wide variety of pass-rushing moves including an effective inside swim move. Also uses hands well as a counter puncher. Needs to develop more finishing power, though, which could improve by adding more bulk with a few off-seasons in the weight room. Has experience dropping into coverage and can hold up in underneath coverage. However, lacks elite fluidity and will have limitations if matched up in man coverage. "
NFLDS:
04/29/2012 - A closer look at the Cowboys' picks: Round 4/113 - Kyle Wilbur, LB, 6-3, 250, Wake Forest...The Cowboys were looking to upgrade their pass rush and Wilbur helps address that need.
He had 13.5 sacks in college. But he is also solid covering backs out of the backfield and good against the run.
Overview
Kyle Wilber was the 37th DE prospect out of high school according to Rivals, and was credited with running a 4.68 40 while being able to squat 400 lbs. Red shirted in 2007, Wilber emerged as a starting DE in 2008 and recorded 3 sacks. He suffered a broken leg in 2009, but was able to finish the final three games. Wilber has started every game the past two seasons at DE and OLB, registering 69 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 2011 after 65 tackles and 6 sacks in 2010. Wilber played well as an OLB during his final game in the Music City Bowl against Mississippi State. As an NFL Draft prospect,
Kyle Wilber offers a lot of talent, intelligence, versatility, and experience, from edge rushing as a down DE to covering the slot in zone. Wilber's height and smooth hips project well in coverage against tall NFL TEs. In space, Wilber demonstrates good agility, and uses his long arms to occupy, shed, and make tackles. Wilber is best suited for 4-3 OLB, but could be tried at 3-4 OLB.
Analysis
Strengths: Smart, instinctive player always around the ball.
Has smooth hips to turn and run in coverage. Good at using long arms to disengage from blockers and make plays. Is quick off the snap and an effective blitzer. Covers a lot of area in zone and uses long frame to defend passes. Good athlete for frame.
Weaknesses: Is neither a great edge rusher nor good at anchoring against OLs on running plays, and hence does not project well as a 3-4 OLB. High cut and long legged, and does not possess elite acceleration. Has not demonstrated good ball skills in man coverage. NFL Comparison: Ben Leber - Minnesota Vikings --Brad Noel