Run Defense
While edge rushers are primarily there to rush the passer, they do need to be able to hold their own as run defenders, something that Winovich shows the ability to do in a variety of ways. As a weak side defender, he has the quickness to impact plays as a pursuit defender if left unblocked:
And shows the hand usage in combination with quickness to offer value when asked to set the edge:
He was also able to use his quickness to disrupt kick-out and trap blocks:
And the power and hand usage he showed as a pass rusher also comes into effect in the run game, with his strength and good pad level allowing him to hold his ground at the point of attack:
With his hand usage allowing him to penetrate inside:
As well as to work through traffic:
And the same power moves that he uses to such effect in the passing game allow him to effectively stack and shed blockers in the run game:
As a player, it is hard to point to one thing that Winovich does exceptionally well – but there are very few flaws to his game from a technical standpoint and while not in the elite category of athletes, he is still a very good one. For some reason, Winovich seems to have gone somewhat under the radar in this draft class, but the Panthers would likely be getting extremely good value if they were able to get him in the second round and should be a part of the conversation should the Panthers look to trade back in the first round as well.
Grade: High Second Round
Best Case NFL Comparison: Demarcus Ware
