Although Oregon players haven’t transitioned well to the NFL over the past decade, one player from this year’s Oregon team, besides Marcus Mariota, who could be an absolute freak in the NFL is Arik Armstead. At 6-foot-7, 295 pounds, Armstead’s frame is extremely intriguing. This height not allows him to see easily over opposing offensive linemen, but it also gives the capability to swat down passes on the outside, similar to J.J. Watt.

Height is definitely a nice trait to have for a 3-4 defensive end, but it can also be detrimental. When it comes to the running game, smaller and stronger NFL offensive linemen are likely going to push him back as they will get lower than him. Until he can put on enough weight to be a three-down defensive end, Armstead will predominately be used in pass-only situations. Armstead intertwines his athleticism with his frame and given the recent influx of speed rushers drafted by NFL teams, those two traits are a good formula for success. This play shows how his athleticism will be of good use in the NFL.

The NFL Combine is a huge scouting event and although it helps many players, the fact of the matter is that it can overrate prospects at times. Not only does Armstead have an elite frame, but he also has long arms. At the combine, Armstead could very likely run a 4.8 40-yard dash and he could have a vertical jump in the range of 41 inches. Because of this, Armstead will likely shoot up draft boards come April.

Armstead was double-teamed throughout his college career and his ability really wasn’t noticed until the Rose Bowl where he had eight tackles as well as a fumble recovery. His best fit is as a five-technique in a 3-4, but if a 4-3 defense wants to get more athletic, Armstead could really make an impact as a 1-technique or even as a 3-technique.

Given his athletic ability, his frame, and his physical skills, Armstead is a guy that will shock many people out there as he has the makings of a first-round pick. As of now, Armstead’s draft stock is at an extremely high level and with the combine in less than a month, Armstead will have another opportunity to further boost his draft stock. Drafting Armstead will be a risk, but if an NFL team is willing to develop a player and wait maybe a year for his contributions, Arik Armstead is the guy.