The Utah Football program led by Kenny Whitingham has always been an underappreciated NFL hub. And true to form, Whittingham has unearthed yet another gem in the 2024 NFL Draft – a three-star recruit named Jonah Elliss.
Elliss initially played a key reserve role in his first two years, showcasing his skills in 20 games where he was responsible for four sacks and seven tackles for loss. However, it wasn’t until he became a full-time starter that he truly shone, exploding onto the field and amassing an impressive 37 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks. With his impressive pass rush arsenal, quickness, and football pedigree, there is no doubt that Jonah Elliss has the potential to be an effective pass rusher in the NFL. However, can Jonah Elliss be worth a first-round pick? Let’s dig into the film!
Position: Outside Linebacker
Height: 6’2 (Unofficial)
Weight: 246 lbs (Unofficial)
Age: 20 years old
School: Utah Utes
Projection: Late Second to Early Third Round Pick
NFL Comparison: Alex Highsmith
Best Fits: Los Angeles Rams and the Carolina Panthers.
Jonah Ellis is an intriguing pass-rushing outside linebacker with pro-bowl potential. Elliss is not a day-one starter due to his inability to stop the run and set the edge. However, due to excellent first step, speed, motor, and pass-rush ability, Elliss can immediately contribute to pass-rushing downs.
The NFL Pro comparison for Elliss was Steeler Alex Highsmith. In Highsmith’s first year as a Steeler, he was primarily a rotational pass rusher. By year three, he was a Pro Bowl double-digit sack artist, and the same can be expected for Elliss. Both have reasonable first steps, speed around the edge, and an impressive pass-rush plan and moves. Like Highsmith, Ellis will play in an odd front scheme.
Some good team fits are the Los Angeles Rams next to Aaron Donald or the Carolina Panthers to replace Brian Burns possibly. Elliss has tremendous potential and should be drafted in the late second round.
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