However, plays the nine technique off the edge and can simply outpace most linemen to the edge. Exhibits some natural closing range when asked to stunt and close the back door down the line in pursuit. However, doesn't have the frame to anchor as a down end and isn't much more than an undersized speed guy. Isn't real technically sound and doesn't exhibit much of a counter.
Impression: A developmental speed rusher who may get a look as a 3-4-rush guy. However, needs to add weight/strength to even have a chance."
Positive: Undersized college defensive end that makes a lot of plays behind the line of scrimmage. Breaks down well, quickly gets off the snap with a nice first step and plays with a large degree of quickness. Displays good movement skills, immediately alters his angle of attack and fluid moving down the line of scrimmage. Effectively uses his hands to protect himself, displays an array of techniques getting off blocks and has a burst to the action. Covers a good amount of area on the field and shows ability in pursuit. Occasionally stood up over tackle.
Negative: Slow shedding blocks at the point of attack. Marginally instinctive, shows hesitation in his game and slow to find the ball on occasion. Stiff and slow pedaling in reverse on zone blitzes.
Analysis: Lattimore is an underrated college pass rusher that does not possess the size to lined up at defensive end in the NFL but does have the skills to be used as a nickel rusher brought onto the field for third-down passing situations."
Lattimore leads all Sun Belt Conference players and ranks sixth nationally with 11 sacks, or 0.96 per game. Lattimore's 20.5 career sacks ranks second all-time at the school.
Strengths: Quick, fluid and flexible Lattimore is athletic and look like he should be able to play standing up as an OLB. He has drive and natural pass rush wiggle.
Weaknesses: Lattimore has been a productive college end, but he's undersized at only 231 pounds, and will need to move to linebacker. He has not had much experience dropping into coverage. He's got a quick first step, but his top speed is only a bit above average for a player his size. He has solid pass rush production, but he really hasn't developed a second move to get to the quarterback, which he will need at the next level.
Projection: Strong workouts could push Lattimore higher, but questions about size and projection will likely keep him from rising too high."