Sheldon Richardson Scouting Report

University of Missouri defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson is a first round prospect in the 2013 NFL Draft that should excel as both a run stopper and bull rusher in a 4-3 defense.

Richardson's biggest asset is his straight line quickness. He can really explode and drive blockers back into the pocket when getting a good jump off the line. While a touch undersized when compared to other defensive tackles, Richardson can be very disruptive and commanding. Sometimes he will play out of his assignment and lose gap responsibility when he becomes too focused on beating his man. He really excels when he can focus on one responsibility, such as slanting or taking a guy one-on-one.

This redshirt-junior is not a pure pass-rusher, but he has enough burst to power his way into the backfield. He does well to keep his outside arm free to make a play on the ball-carrier. Really gets after it in pursuit and doesn't give up on many plays. Motor is up far more often than down and seems to play with a chip on his shoulder. Inconsistent with his feet, but many of his technical flaws can be ironed out at the next level.

In an extremely deep DT class, Richardson figures to be a Top 20 pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.