Lewis Cine has aligned as the single-high middle-field defender and has also aligned in split-safety looks. Lewis is a good athlete with good straight-line speed, agility, and range of motion. In the passing game, his versatility is his strongest attribute. He has moments of dropping down in the slot and playing in the overhang. He could afford to make more plays in the passing game and has left plays on the field, in this regard.

In the run game, he is a violent, physical hitter. He comes downhill with authority and demonstrates physical toughness as a run defender. He aggressively runs the alley and shows up with physicality. He has been hit with targeting penalties in the past but has been better in this aspect in 2021. On passing downs, he may be best-suited playing as a linebacker in sub-packages where he can use his athleticism to blitz and affect the passer.

Ideal Role: Safety and core special teamer

Scheme Fit: Any defensive scheme

FILM EVALUATION

Written by Drae Harris

Games watched: Clemson (2021), Tennessee (2021), Alabama (2021), Arkansas (2021)

Best Game Studied: Clemson (2021)

Worst Game Studied: Arkansas (2021)

Football IQ: He displays sufficient-level IQ. Although he doesn’t make the calls on the backend, he plays the game with an instinctive understanding of run fits.

Tackling: See Above.

Versatility: The Dawgs moved him around quite a bit and he’s showcased an ability to have plenty on his plate. He’s aligned as the deep post player, as a sub-linebacker, working from the slot, and walked up onto the line in pressure situations. 

Range: He has effective range on the back end, although his ability to be a plus starter in the high post is modest. He can get to his landmark in zone against the pass. However, his sideline-to-sideline approach to the run game is phenomenal.

Ball Skills: He lacks good ball skills. He hasn’t been overly productive against the pass. He has been in position to make plays that have been left on the field.

Run Defense: See Above.

Functional Athleticism: He has good functional athleticism. He is athletic enough for the requirements of the position. He can cover in the slot for a few reps but this isn’t where he is best.

Competitive Toughness: See Above.

Flexibility: He has good flexibility in his hips as a player in space. This is not a hindrance in any aspect of his skill set.

Special Teams: He projects as an outstanding special teamer. He will likely align in the core on coverage units. He will excel in this role due to his toughness and aggressive play demeanor.

SCOUT GRADES

TDN Consensus: 82.83/100 (Second Round Value)

Crabbs Grade: 85.50/100

Marino Grade: 83.50/100

Harris Grade: 80.00/100

Sanchez Grade: 82.50/100

Weissman Grade: 83.50/100