The 2022 NFL Draft will be a great event for teams to start building for their future. Here is the Devin Lloyd 2022 NFL Draft Profile.
Position: Linebacker
Size: 6-foot-3, 237 pounds
Class: Redshirt Senior
2021 stats: 111 total tackles, 22 tackles for loss, 7.0 sacks, 4 interceptions, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 1 touchdown
Over the last three seasons Lloyd has been an impact player for the Utah Utes. Now, he is headed to the next level.
Lloyd was a three-star recruit coming out of high school and decided to leave his home state of California to attend Utah. After redshirting in 2017, Lloyd recorded six total tackles on special teams and on defense. Lloyd was elevated to a starter in 2019, registering 91 total tackles and 6.5 sacks. The Utes went 11-3 that season and secured a bid to the Alamo Bowl. In a shortened 2020 season, Lloyd had 48 total tackles. Utah only played in five games that season and won three of them. For the 2021 season, Lloyd delivered with 111 total tackles, 22 tackles for loss and seven sacks. The Utes won the Pac-12 and went to the Rose Bowl.
Following the Rose Bowl appearance, Lloyd declared for the 2022 NFL Draft. He is currently projected to be a first-round pick.
At 6-foot-3 and 237 pounds, Lloyd has a solid build for a modern-day linebacker. With his size also comes a good wingspan, which helps his range when tackling and helps him shed blockers. He also has decent play strength and won’t need to add much to his frame for the next level.
Lloyd is a great run defender. Once he sees the ball, Lloyd shows good pursuit and speed as he goes after the ball carrier. He can slip away from blockers and shoot gaps well. His last season of college helped him show that he can get tackles for loss. When he meets the ball carrier, he is able to wrap up and complete the play.
His versatility as a linebacker presents really good value. As mentioned, he is good against the run. Lloyd has also shown to be an effective blitzer who can get to the quarterback. While he has some things to clean up in pass coverage, he has shown he can do that as well. Lloyd could develop into a good three-down linebacker.
Right now, Lloyd is better in zone coverage than in man to man. He has trouble keeping up with and mirroring in man-to-man coverage. Tight ends can get the better of him and he is much better at reading the quarterback’s eyes.
His play diagnosis could be a little better. There are times when he doesn’t realize the play or blocking schemes until it is too late. He has some speed, but if he can learn how offenses are attacking him, Lloyd can save a step or two at the next level.
Lloyd will not be an elite athlete at the position. He has decent speed, but he is better in tight spaces. His lack of flexibility is also an issue. Lloyd still has the adequate traits to become a good three-down linebacker in the league.
Projected Draft Range: First Round Pick
Make sure to check out our brand new NFL Draft page for more content like the Devin Lloyd 2022 NFL Draft Profile!
You can like The Game Haus on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more sports and esports articles from great TGH writers!
Players must be 21 years of age or older or reach the minimum age for gambling in their respective state and located in jurisdictions where online gambling is legal. Please play responsibly. Bet with your head, not over it. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, and wants help, call or visit: (a) the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey at 1-800-Gambler or www.800gambler.org; or (b) Gamblers Anonymous at 855-2-CALL-GA or www.gamblersanonymous.org.
