DT Rodney Coe of Akron was one of the guys we had for an official visit (which was probably more for recruiting than evaluation).
Interesting profile, he was a RB who ended up at DT in the route Henry Melton and Chris Whaley did. Very raw and landed at Akron after being kicked out of Iowa State, he could be a good Practice Squad candidate if his mind is right now.
This is the only thing I found on him:
STRENGTHS
Former running back now living in the body of a defensive tackle. Thick bubble with good, natural strength in lower half. Loose hips allow him to turn and flip over the edge of blockers. Has traits to become a significantly better pass rusher with more work. Flashes above average quickness of snap with shots in the gaps. Excellent change of direction talent with scary pursuit speed for a big guy. Fluid athlete with good lateral movement skills down the line. Plays nose and three-technique.
WEAKNESSES
Knock-knee build that will be off-putting to some scouts. Legs have unusual bend and turn when firing out of stance. Inconsistent with hand usage. Lacks cohesive plan as pass rusher. Needs to find a pet move and then set it up. Production would improve with better conditioning. Played at three schools over three years. Dismissed from Iowa State and admits to a lack of effort and discipline while there. Concerns over maturity and work ethic are real. Recovering from sports hernia injury. Pad level needs to improve for leverage purposes.
DRAFT PROJECTION
Rounds 6 or 7
BOTTOM LINE
Coe has the size and quickness that could be very appealing for a 1gap oriented defense looking for a late-round prospect to groom. Coe's athleticism is undeniable, but he doesn't always translate it into a more consistent pass rush. Beyond that, his draft stock could be determined by how teams view his maturity and character.
-Lance Zierlein
