IDL, Georgia
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 315 lbs
Class: Senior
As a three-star recruit in the 2017 class, Wyatt initially committed to play defensive tackle at South Carolina. He later flipped his commitment to Georgia, but academic issues forced him to go to junior college instead. After one season at Hutchinson Community College he transferred to Bulldogs.
Wyatt featured occasionally in 2018, before taking on a bigger role in Georgia’s defensive line rotation as a junior. He became a starter in 2020 and exercised his extra year of eligibility to return for another season. Wyatt proved to be an integral part of their defense in 2021, earning First Team All-SEC honours in the process.
You can read more of my 2022 NFL Draft content here.
Strengths
At 6’3″ and 315 lbs, Wyatt has prototypical defensive tackle size. What sets him apart from many others is that he pairs this with outstanding athletic traits for the position. He has great short area quickness for his size and his first step is amongst the best at the position. This allows him to challenge offensive linemen laterally in ways that most defensive tackles struggle to do. He also plays with good leverage and is able to consistently get under his opponents’ pads.
This was a big part of the reason for Wyatt’s success as a pass rusher. He finished the 2021 season with 26 pressures, including four sacks, on just 263 pass rushing snaps. His quick twitch and ability work multiple gaps is special for his size and will cause problems for even the most athletic guards. It also allowed him to have success on stunts and twists, with the bend to act as the looper and get to the quarterback.
Wyatt doesn’t just rely on his physical tools though. He already possesses a diverse array of pass rushing moves. Whether it is a swim, a spin, or a chop, Wyatt will keep opposing linemen guessing in pass protection. He also has the quick hands and counter ability that you need to be a consistent pass rushing threat at the next level.
Last but not least is his ability as a run defender. Wyatt showcases great play recognition speed and is quick to identify different run concepts. His short area quickness allows him to routinely beat reach blocks and blow up zone runs in the backfield. He also shows proficiency against gap runs, with the anchor to withstand drive blocks.
Weaknesses
Whilst Wyatt has solid play strength, it isn’t much to write home about. He is nowhere near as physical as you’d expect for a player of his size, and is overly reliant on his ability to win with finesse. You rarely saw him employ a bull rush during his time at Georgia. If he is to reach his ceiling in the NFL he desperately needs to add some power as a pass rusher.
The other question mark will be around his length. Wyatt doesn’t have ideal length and can struggle to win early in the rep. This also allows offensive linemen to get inside his frame and neutralise his explosiveness. This isn’t something that Wyatt can do anything about, but it is a concern nonetheless. It is also worth noting that Wyatt is one of the older defensive prospects in the class, turning 24 before his rookie season
Bottom Line
There is a lot to like about Wyatt’s game. He has impressive athletic traits for a player of his size and pairs this with technical refinement as a pass rusher. When paired with his ability to contribute as a run defender, it is easy to see his future as a three-down player at the next level. If he can add some more play strength and play with the requisite ferocity he has a really high ceiling.
Ideal role: 3-tech in a 4-3 front
Round projection: 1st round
