Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State #9
6052, 245, 4.78
Notes: From Stone Mountain, GA. Began his college career at Michigan State, where he appeared in the first 2 games, collecting 4 tackles and 0.5 sacks in 2014, but was then suspended indefinitely through the rest of the season. Was redshirted for the entire 2015 season, and was suspended by head coach Mark Dantonio for disciplinary reasons most of his two seasons with the Spartans. Left Michigan State for “personal reasons” in the spring of 2016 and enrolled at Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Mississippi. Played in 13 games, playing both OLB and DE for Mississippi State, in 2017, posting 48 tackles, 15.5 TFL, 10.5 sacks and 1 FR.
Positives: Great length with a long, rangy, muscular build. Good motor. Relentless. Has very good speed off the edge, can counter inside and close. Even when initially blocked, he keeps working, is consistently pressuring the quarterback and makes plays all over the field. Can set the edge in the run game. Able to stand up his opponent and play off blocks. Very good range and pursuit. Can turn and chase plays from behind.
Negatives: Lacks natural bulk and can lose leverage and get knocked back if he plays too high. Refining overall technique and is somewhat mechanical still. Disciplinary issues at Michigan State merit further investigation by pro scouts.
Summary: A work in progress but the upside is very high. Danielle Hunter-type prospect.
