Vontaze Burfict

Hometown: Corona, CA (Centennial HS)

Height: 6'2"     Weight: 240

Position: LB

Teams Of Interest

Committed to USC

The Skinny

Missile of a LB already committed to USC

The Analysis

This kid is the prototypical middle linebacker. Burfict has a big, thick, physical frame that will allow for even more weight/strength. However, it is his rare athleticism for a player of his size that makes him a perfect fit at middle linebacker. His quickness and speed allow him to play sideline to sideline against the run and deep down the seem in pass coverage.

The future Trojan is simply a dominate force. He delivers crushing blows to the opposition. He will be the first thing the quarterback will look for when he steps to the line during pre-snap reads. Offenses will have to account for this fierce competitor. He is a fundamentally sound tackler.

Burfict is very comfortable and effective at playing in traffic. He does a great job of shedding blockers and flowing through debris to get to he ball carrier. At his size, his ability to plug the middle of the defense is an obvious strength. He will also be a very dangerous blitzer as being on the attack is where he is most comfortable.

His diagnostic skills and pad level are biggest areas of concern. He will have to learn to protect his lower body by playing lower more consistently. Being able to diagnose a play quickly and not taking false steps will come with reps against top flight offensive competition.

2007: 162 tackles, 17 tackles for loss

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