2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Mike Morris (DE – Michigan)

As the NFL season winds down, FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL draft scouting reports before the combine in March. Here’s a look at Mike Morris.

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2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Mike Morris (DE – Michigan)

DE Mike Morris, Michigan

6’6″ – 292 lbs.

Background:

Four-star recruit who didn’t appear in 2019 and played very sparingly the following year as well. Started four of 14 games in 2021, ending up with 16-1.0-0.5 and, per PFF, eight hurries in 360 snaps, then took on a starting role this past season and went 23-11.0-7.5 over another 360 snaps.

Positives:

Massive specimen who incredibly lines up most frequently as a stand-up edge defender, but can also take snaps out of a four-point stance on three-man lines. Very consistent from snap to snap. Fires out with a solid pad level when playing with his hand in the dirt. Functional strength is very good, experiencing little trouble controlling blocks on early downs. Sets a solid edge in the run game; easily digs in and anchors at the line of scrimmage. Does a good job of keeping his shoulders square. Gets good extension with his arms to lock out opponents. Able to shed when needed; flashes a nice rip to disengage. Patient and disciplined on the backside. Length gives him an impressive tackling radius. Pretty active with his feet after engaging to grind down opponents with his bull rush. Flashes the ability to work the swim off of his bull rush to penetrate. Smooth change of direction in pursuit. Gets his hands up to contest passing lanes. Works hard to get to his spots when dropping into coverage, having done so once or twice a game in school.

Negatives:

Has never really been a full-time player with the Wolverines, rarely topping 40 snaps in a game and often falling under 30 even as a starter. Athletic for his size, but not particularly quick or explosive for an edge rusher in absolute terms; doesn’t really have a speed element to his game, or an extra gear to close and finish. Run fits could be more disciplined when playing as a down lineman. Rush approach is a relatively straightforward power-based style; rarely threatens to bend the edge back to the passer. Not likely to be used much in coverage at the next level.

Summary:

A huge elephant ‘backer with the ability to set a solid edge, lock out blockers and disengage when needed, he should appeal primarily to teams such as the Patriots which favor a bigger defensive front with two-gap principles. Isn’t the most explosive pass-rusher with the most diverse repertoire of moves, but what he has works well. Could conceivably play end in either an even or odd front, or perhaps reprise his role as a strongside linebacker behind a three-man line.