2018 Raiders Prospect Profile: DE/OLB Dorance Armstrong

Raiders Prospect Profile

Name:  Dorance Armstrong Jr.

Position: OLB/DE

School: University of Kansas

Height: 6’4”

Weight: 241 pounds

Round Projection: 2-3

Stats

Tackling

Playing somewhat out of position last season for the Kansas Jayhawks, Dorance Armstrong Jr. was asked to play a lot more outside linebacker compared to his great sophomore season (10 sacks, 20 TFL’s). Armstrong displays raw, but explosive, tackling ability. At times, the 2017 preseason Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year was lost in the shuffle on his run reads, but made it up many times with his high motor. The talent and skill set is there for Armstrong, but he will be a project for any defensive coach looking to have him play linebacker.

Strength

Armstrong displays rock-solid lower body strength, which gives him a big advantage rushing the passer. His hands  get lost at times. Due to his ability to streak past lineman, he relies solely on his speed to carry him. However most NFL tackles prepare for speed rushers.. In addition, the former All-Big 12 performer will need to add some more weight to his frame at the next level.

Speed/Agility/Block Shedding

At his size and frame, Armstrong possesses great straight-line speed and agility off the line. Armstrong is one of the more athletic edge rushers in this year’s draft and displays solid pass rushing moves. Expectations are the former Jayhawk will post a sub 4.75 40-yard time at the combine. In that case, Armstrong should rocket up draft boards.

Raiders Fit

New defensive coordinator Paul Guenther runs an aggressive 4-3 defense. Similar to what Mike Zimmer runs in Minnesota, General Manager Reggie McKenzie and Head Coach Jon Gruden will look to add more ammunition for Guenther’s blitzing defense in this draft. If the Raiders elect to cut Bruce Irvin this offseason, Armstrong has a comparable style to Irvin. Armstrong has a relentless motor and aggressive style of play; he could immediately help the Raiders on the pass rush. If Oakland misses Bradley Chubb in the first, Armstrong would be a nice pick in the second round. Provided that he gains weight, Dorance will be an early impact player for the Raiders.