Player Profile: Jonathan Hankins

Jonathan Hankins

Height:  6'3
Weight:  320
School:  Ohio State
Position:  Defensive Tackle
Rank:  #4 Defensive Tackle
Projection:  Top 40
Strengths
-Experienced.  Played in every game since his true freshman year.
-Ideal size for a NFL Defensive tackle
-Scheme Flexability.  Can play in a 4-3 or a 3-4 defense.
-Good strength that allows him to him to take on blocks and not get pushed off his spot
-Quality bull rush that can force the lineman back into the QB
-Does a great job of locating the ball
-Surprising quickness for somebody his size
-Good motor.  Doesn't give up when double teamed
-Good conditioning for somebody his size.  Doesn't wear down easily

Weaknesses
-Doesn't have the best closing speed.
-Can struggle to get off blocks
-Plays too high.  Causes him to lose leverage
-Needs to improve his technique.  Not fundamentally sound
-Lacks pass rushing moves.  Only a bull rush
-Doesn't use his hands well
Summary
If you want a dynamic pass rushing presence at defensive tackle, Jonathan Hankins isn't your guy.  But if you want somebody that is going to stuff the run, take on blockers, and provide a solid push up the middle then Hankins is the guy for you.  Hankins is a solid defensive tackle that uses his size and strength to occupy space and stop the run game.  He could stand to improve his technique and get off blocks better, but he's also going to free up your linebackers to make plays.  Hankins doesn't show much of a pass rushing ability beyond a bull rush.  He'll have to learn and develop a move or two if he wants to stay on the field in pass rushing situations.  Hankins projects as a 4-3 NT or a 3-4 DE.  I believe he has the ability and strength to play the NT in the 3-4 also.  Look for Hankins to go somewhere in the high second round but it wouldn't surprise me if he was taken in the late 1st.  Philadelphia could be a landing spot in the second round because they need pieces for their new 3-4 defense.