NFL Draft Analysis
Phillip Merling made a decision to leave school early and he is considered one of the top 5 defensive ends in the draft.
Merling was not able to participate in the Scouting Combine due to a sports hernia surgery. However, in college training sessions, he has been recorded running in the 4.7 second range on the 40, which is an excellent clocking for an end standing 6-foot-4 and tipping the scales 276 pounds.
Positives
Merling is a tremendous athlete, who has an NFL body and size for a pass rusher. His natural position is at end in a 4-3 scheme. He is quick off the end, and will be difficult for large offensive linemen to contain. He does a good job of extending his long arms to keep lineman from controlling him at the line. Merling showcases strong a strong lower body and a good motor.
As a starter in college, he frequently faced double teams and was able to shake defenders in pursuit of the quarterback. It is likely that he isn't done maturing as a player since many considered that he left a year too early. He has no character issues or concerns.
Negatives
Merling has a tremendous lower body, however he needs to strengthen his upper body. He managed just 17 reps at 225 pounds, which was less than half of the top defensive end in the combine. While his size places him as an ideal rush candidate, he could considered a "tweener" since he is not big enough to play inside and not quick enough to beat NFL linemen on the outside. He needs to work on his hands, as more technical NFL linemen can lock up his body quickly without much effort.
Expected Draft Position
Merling has consistently been ranked as a top 5 defensive prospect. However, he missed the Scouting Combine and a poor showing on the 225-pound lift could cause his stock to slip.
He is likely to be selected in the mid-to-late stages of the first round.
SI.com - NFL Draft Film Room Video: Phillip Merling
He is likely to be selected in the mid-to-late stages of the first round.