Malik Reed, OLB, Nevada #90

6011, 240, 4.84

Notes: From Dothan, AL. His father, Anthony Reed, played basketball at Troy and is enshrined in the school's Hall of Fame. Redshirted in 2014. Saw action in all 13 games, posting 18 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1 sack and 1 PBU in 2015. Played and started all 12 games at defensive end, with 59 tackles, 9.5 TFL, 5 sacks and 3 FF in 2016. Started all 12 games, posted 49 tackles, 10 TFL, 8 sacks, 1 PBU and 4 FF in 2017. Moved to strong-side linebacker in 2018.

Positives: Explosive first step. Quick feet, fine balance and can redirect his charge. Can dip his shoulder and shorten around the corner. Generates power as a pass rusher. Good hand use and technique. Has secondary moves. Refuses to stay blocked. Very good closing speed. Plays with passion and intensity. Non-stop motor. Consistent playmaker who consistently penetrates and disrupts. Hard worker.

Negatives: Lacks length and overall size as a down end at the next level. Limited experience dropping into coverage. Average open-field footspeed for pass defense. Much production came against lower level of competition.

Summary: Solid fit as an outside linebacker and edge rusher in a 3-4 defense.