Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
Chris Braswell
- Alabama
- Height-6032
- Weight-257 lbs
- Fourth-year senior
- 4-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 75 tackles, 31 solo, 15.5 tackles for loss, 10.5 sacks, 1 pass defended, 4 forced fumbles
- Games watched: LSU 2023, Georgia 2023, Ole Miss 2023, Texas 2023
Strengths
Braswell shows a substantial amount of power in his hands. His speed to power is excellent in driving tackles back off their anchor. He attacks offensive linemen with a powerful punch and can do it from multiple allingments.
Plays really smart in the run game. Holds blocks well at the point of attack and sheds them to make a play in the hole. Stays patient when put in conflict with RPOs and read options.
Braswell has impressive athleticism. He gets off the ball quickly and with explosiveness. That helps him generate power with ease consistently.
Weaknesses
Despite being able to win on the outside, he doesn’t have any truly developed countermoves. Once he engages, Braswell
His main strategy is running right at offensive lineman and trying to drive them off their anchor and he needs to develop some nuance to keep blockers on their toes.
Braswell doesn’t have the best length. It can hinder him from truly getting into the frame of the offensive lineman at times. This could become a bigger issue at the next level.
Braswell has a relatively stiff lower half, hindering him from bending around the edge and changing direction quickly.
Overview
| Bend | 7.8/10 |
| Quickness/Burst | 13.5/15 |
| Finesse | 3.6/5 |
| Power | 4.6/5 |
| Counters | 7.5/10 |
| Awareness | 8.2/10 |
| Run Defense | 8.3/10 |
| Versatility | 8.1/10 |
| Size/Length | 12.6/15 |
| Tackling | 8.2/10 |
| Grade | 82.4/100 Second Round |
Braswell is a good player but there are some limitations to his game right now. He needs to develop more in his pass rush repertoire and a counter move or two but the raw power and athleticism is there to develop. Braswell would be a really good selection in round two as a developmental pass rusher.
