At 240 lbs, Azeez Ojulari works best as a 3-4 speed rusher in the NFL, a type of player many defensive schemes demand at the next level. He is explosive off the line with quick hands and a fantastic bend to work against tackles. Ojulari’s athletic profile and numbers have cemented him as a top edge rusher in this year’s draft class.
Despite being undersized compared to most edge rushers, Ojulari’s bend puts him in a class of his own. The way he leverages himself against opposing lineman much stronger than him allows him to be the dominant presence he is along the defensive front.
The athletically gifted Ojulari was a true difference-maker for the Bulldog defense. An overall young defense had fits at times throughout the season, but Ojulari’s presence was a constant. What scouts should truly be enamored with was how Ojulari progressed as the season went on. Similar to first-round prospect Christian Barmore, Ojulari tore it up in his bowl game.
Against a talented Cincinnati team, racking up pressures would be a tall task. Ojulari dominated nearly every play. On read options, Ojulari got into the backfield fast to make sure the quarterback had to tuck it and run. Although he worked against Cincinnati’s backup tackle for the better part of the game, Ojulari took full advantage, finishing the day with 3 sacks and 2 forced fumbles. Managing such a stat line against an extremely mobile quarterback in Desmond Ridder showcases Ojulari’s elite speed and athleticism.
At Georgia’s pro day, with all eyes on him, Azeez Ojulari put on a show. Putting up a 4.60 40-time, 127” broad jump, and 26 bench reps proved his explosiveness and athleticism. His blend of speed and strength should make teams like the Ravens or Dolphins jump at the opportunity to draft him.
Given Baltimore losing Matt Judon in free agency to New England, they’re currently in the market for an edge rusher such as Ojulari. Working opposite of Tyus Bowser would keep that defense in elite territory. Brian Flores’s defense in Miami needs pass-rush help immediately. They came to a deal with Houston that shipped off Shaq Lawson early in the offseason. Outside of the young Emmanuel Ogbah, they don’t have much. Ojulari would step into a starting role and could produce as early as day one for the Dolphins.
