This summer, the National Football Post is breaking down every team in the Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly known as Division I-A) to identify players who might warrant interest from NFL teams in the 2010 draft.
The Northwestern Wildcats have an impressive group of senior prospects on the defensive side of the ball and should build on their solid 2008 campaign.
Offense
Kurt Mattes: No. 78, OT, 6′6″, 298
Isn’t real flexible out of his stance and struggles firing off the ball and getting into blocks quickly. Lacks body control and doesn’t possess the coordination to drop his pad level and cut down defenders on the edge.
Displays a below-average burst on his kick-step and has a tendency to get his hands outside defenders instead of punching them at the point of attack.
Plays too high off the ball and doesn’t exhibit the power to consistently get into blocks and engage on contact. Has a tendency to get jolted by opposing linemen and is easily stacked and shed on the outside. Doesn’t display much power in the run game and lacks the base to drive defenders off the ball.
Impression: Lacks the power, footwork and coordination to play at an NFL level.
Defense
Corey Wootton: No. 99, DE, 6′6″, 270
A really powerful defensive end who does a great job dropping his pad level and delivering a strong initial jolt on contact. Has the natural strength to rock offensive linemen backward at the point and walk them into the play.
Isn’t an explosive, quick-twitch athlete and lacks the ability to consistently reach the corner. However, he possesses a big first step off the snap and has the ability to get on top of offensive tackles quickly, even though he rushes with his right hand down and right foot back. Will further enhance his initial burst with improved footwork out of his stance.
Exhibits impressive lateral mobility as a pass rusher and does a nice job taking offensive tackles up the field, planting his foot in the …
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