Robert Beal Jr. 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Background: 

• Five-star prospect; No. 2 defensive end nationally

• Participated in Under Armour All-American Game
• No. 27 overall player nationally and Top 150 Dream Team

System: 

• Scheme tendencies: 3-4 Odd front
• 2022 projected role: Starting SAM LB

Pros: Robert Beal Jr. showcases functional athleticism to align as an overhang defender and QB spy. He drops as a curl/flats defender in coverage. He has a strong frame with long levers. He stonewalls reaching OL with his length and strong anchor. He uses his length and power to set hard edges and funnel RBs back into the teeth of his defense. He possesses a quick first step with the ability to convert speed to power. His power and hand counters soften edges for easier accessible pathways to the backfield. He has good lateral agility to defend read options and running QBs. He is more explosive and sudden playing from a four-point stance. In the run game, he will squeeze gaps and contain as a backside defender.

Cons: I would like to see a lower pad level for better leverage when slicing gaps. Robert Beal Jr.’s game has some raw aspects as a result of limited reps on a stacked Bulldog defense. He lacks a constant plan snap to snap as a pass rusher. He lacks maturity as a rusher—his hands need work to quickly defeat pass sets. He must maintain better lane integrity as a rusher, attempt inside counters, and not surrender outside leverage. I’d like to see him improve his eye discipline. I noticed some hip tightness when attempting to bend the corner.

Robert Beal Jr. NFL Draft Scouting Report by Damian Parson