2021 Raiders Draft Prospect: LB Chazz Surratt

2021 Raiders Draft Prospect Profile
Name: Chazz Surratt
Position: Linebacker
School: North Carolina
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 230 pounds
Stats

Processing-3

During his stay at Chapel Hill, the prospect started as a quarterback, playing ten games in two seasons. After a position switch, Surratt used what he learned in the pocket to help him a linebacker. From his unique vantage point, the player uses his eyes to slow the play down, in order to parse patterns and adjust for blocking/direction. Furthermore, having offensive knowledge helps the UNC standout to pick up on motion patterns and potential short pick plays.

Speed-3

In this trait, Surratt does not hold back, trusting his eyes and following with his feet. First, as a blitzer, he makes a beeline for the quarterback. Surratt tallied 12.5 sacks in two years. In the NFL, you can envision this trait continuing in long yardage passing situations. Next, and more importantly, how Surratt closes matters more than anything. He arrives at the target, ready to lay the lumber. In addition, Surratt incorporates this burst to shooting the gap versus the run.

Agility-3

When Surratt is lured into misdirection, he can change plans in mid-stride to pursue play backside. Now, that same nimbleness can occasionally hurt the prospect. At the next level, his shed and keeping blockers off his torso depends on that quickness. As a result, Surratt must use the pinpoint technique.

Tackling-4

Although he tips the scales at only 230 pounds, the prospect will jar targets in either traffic or open space. Surratt looks through the target, keeping his head and eyes focused on the target. From there, the prospect’s technique and physicality at impact take over. His wraps appear sound, hips sink, and level changes. On Sundays, the prospect must get quicker into position.

Coverage-3

The former UNC standout thrives underneath. He looks at home in short to medium zones and flats. The rapid processing and instincts help in staying adhered to the receiver. On the odd chance that the prospect drops deeper into a zone, take care as to not make this the norm.

Run Support-3

Being the formerly mobile quarterback, Surratt displays a fee for gap integrity and filling properly. Meanwhile, on the perimeter, the prospect will ease under late-forming blocking, making the play, and taking the runner down. As mentioned, he will need to shed with a bit more power at the next level.

Intangibles-3

Surratt arrived at Chapel Hill as a quarterback. He started ten games. When it became obvious that he reached his ceiling as a passer, a position switch called. It takes situational cognizance and understanding to switch positions mid-career. Under those circumstances, that flexibility will assist him in the NFL. Whether he slides into a starting spot early or it takes a few games on special teams, the prospect shows the right mindset.

Raiders Fit

As of this writing, the Raiders just finished the 2020 season. At 8-8, questions about play retention began. Nicholas Morrow’s name surfaced. In all honesty, the defense needs a complete overhaul. Morrow played well in spots. However, in spots, doesn’t bring any semblance of long-term success. On the other hand, Surratt offers a higher upside and value. The blitzing, the contact tackling, and ability to thrive in space will give the Raiders a linebacker that pairs well with Cory Littleton and Nick Kwiatkoski

Points: 22/28