Bradlee Anae | EDGE | Utah
Elevator Pitch
Anae is another one of the Utes that will be looking to make the jump to the pros, and one of five on defense. Anae isn’t a speed rusher but is one of the more technically sound edge defenders for the upcoming class and could make an immediate impact as a rotational player with opportunity to work his way into a starting role. His best fit is in a 4-3 with his hand in the dirt.
Vitals
Height | 6-3
Weight | 257
Class | Senior
Strengths
The Hawaii native is technically savvy with his hands. Often he attacks quickly with the first punch. He is one of the more advanced technicians among this edge class that gets pretty weak after Chase Young at the top. Anae can use a plethora of moves that he has in his tool box. He uses his length to his advantage, his push-pull technique is probably his best move.
Despite not having top end speed, Anae shows a good first step. He uses that to get the offensive tackle off balance and goes on the attack. He is a lunchpail, blue collar player. His motor and high energy is on full display when he is on the field. Doesn’t give up on plays as Anae continues to pursue.
Weaknesses
The biggest question mark that surrounds Anae will be attacking in the run game. While his play is solid on the edge, he can get washed out on blocks with more physical tackles. Needs to work on strength in his upper body to work on shedding blockers at the point of attack.
Anae has to win with technique given the fact that he isn’t one who can win with speed around the edge. Doesn’t have the bend that some of the other weakside defensive ends have at the NFL level. So working on his spin that is rather ineffective and inside pass rush will be key in his development.
