NFL Draft Profile: How Dexter Lawrence fits with the 49ers

Today we take a closer look at Clemson defensive tackle and run-stuffing machine Dexter Lawerence and examine how he can be a fit along the 49ers defensive line.

Greetings Faithful! We return with another scouting report. Chances are at some point the San Francisco 49ers will be addressing their defensive line (Yes, even with 3 current first round picks on the roster). There is a strong sense that the team will select one of Nick Bosa, Josh Allen, or Quinnen Williams. However, this is the NFL Draft after all and once the clock starts ticking, anything can happen, and all bets are off…In others words…expect the unexpected.

Photo by Todd Bennett/Getty Images

So, with that said, what if the pick isn’t Bosa, Williams, or Allen? What if the team trades out of the second overall pick? Today, we will take a look at another defensive lineman who made his presence known at Clemson. Today the spotlight is on defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. Let’s learn more about Lawrence and what he brings to the table.

Combine Results:

40 Yard Dash: 5.05
Bench Reps: 36 Reps (Watch the video above!)

Measurables:

Height: 6’4”
Weight: 342 lbs.
Hands: 10 ½
Arms: 34 ¾”

Summary:

Dexter Lawrence has outstanding size and power along the defensive line. Lawrence has a tremendous frame with an unbelievable blend of power and size. Seriously, this man has power along the defensive line and makes the opposition look downright silly at times.

For a player of his size, Lawrence has impressive athleticism. He is one of the best defensive linemen against the run. Running backs and ball carriers rarely were able to produce yards beyond initial contact by Lawrence, who was a run-stuffing machine up the middle. While there is still room for growth in the pass rushing department, his raw talent to create chaos and disruption in the opponent’s backfield is second to none.

Lawrence uses his lengthy arms and pro-ready frame to deflect and bat down passes, and break up plays along the line of scrimmage. On tape, Lawrence often over-powers and beats out single coverage against him along the line.

He uses a blend of raw power and limited moves to create pressure on the quarterback. Has clean footwork off the snap, with sudden burst off the line. His footwork produces violent power along the line. Don’t let his size frighten you…Lawrence might be one of the fastest draft-eligible defensive lineman. He has that natural blend of size and athleticism that scouts and evaluators seek at the next level.

Other than his football traits, Lawrence has great character and a team-first attitude. I firmly believe the failed drug test and suspension from the College Football Playoff was unintentional and an unfortunate mistake. Lawrence is coachable, and continues to discover growth and potential in his game. If you are still unsure about Lawrence, his head coach says it all in one telling statement, “When you have great talent and skill plus great work ethic and character, you usually become a superstar” – Dabo Swinney, Clemson Head Coach.

Is Lawrence a fit for the 49ers?

Considering that the 49ers continued to have issues with stopping the run, that by default should have the team interested in Lawrence’s services. Let’s get this out of the way. The 49ers will only be interested in Lawrence if they trade out of the number two pick and don’t select a defensive lineman. However, should they go that route, Lawrence would plug in and become an instant contributor along the defensive line, as a run-stuffing defender who can also create pressure and cause disruption in the opponent’s backfield on passing downs. In order to be successful, you need to be able to stop the run (Even in a pass-friendly league). Lawrence is versatile where he would fit in a 4-3 or 3-4 base. If the 49ers don’t address the defensive line with their first pick because they traded down then Lawrence could be an intriguing option. Depending on what the 49ers receive in the trade down, perhaps they can target Lawrence later in the first round or move up into the back-half of the first round. I know it sounds like a long shot, however who’s going to complain about a line featuring Dee Ford, DeForest Buckner, Dexter Lawrence, and Arik Armstead.

What are YOUR thoughts on Dexter Lawrence? If the 49ers don’t use their second overall pick on a defensive linesman would you take a chance on Lawrence to improve the run defense? Please share in the comments below!