Brandon Dorlus 2024 NFL Draft Profile
We’re continuing the 2024 NFL Draft profiles, and next up on the docket is Oregon’s Brandon Dorlus. Dorlus played a solid part in a Ducks team that would finish the year 12-2, but his 2024 NFL Draft outlook remains a bit of a mystery, and we will explain why shortly. To be honest upfront here, I have no idea what to make of Dorlus. Let’s talk about it.
Dorlus, a fifth-year Senior, had a nice close to his career with the Oregon Ducks, finishing the year with four sacks, seven QB hits, and 35 hurries. He did a great job making himself available to play, staying healthy, and playing just over 1,900 snaps over 41 games the last three years as a starter.
I got the chance to watch Brandon Dorlus at the Senior Bowl this year, and what I watched clouded my judgment a bit. I get the appeal. He is a physical Defensive End with violent hands, and he can use them to slap away a tackle and get outside. Bull rush is more so his technique, using it well especially lined up against Tight Ends. Can line up across the line. Dorlus can set the edge pretty well. He had a 1.68 split at the Combine, which for a guy his size isn’t too bad.
My issue is what are we getting? I am drafting Brandon Dorlus, but where am I playing him? I’m not sure he’s quick enough to play out on the end, but isn’t strong enough to play inside. It’s either bulk up and we’ll throw you in three-technique, or let’s get into our summer bod and line up at Defensive End. I like guys with versatility, but with his little production in the sack totals, I can’t be too convinced he can play outside in the NFL.
Dorlus also feels like a one-trick pony. If he’s going up against a strong tackle with a good base and that bull rush doesn’t win, it feels like he gives up on the play. Never goes back with another move. Motor doesn’t always run hot, which I can’t have. Footwork can be all over the place at times. Body never feels like he is properly set to gain leverage.
I think I like Dorlus, but I have no clue where I would feel confident drafting him. I have no clue where to put him, and that concerns me. He ends up with a mid-fourth round grade for me, in hopes that I can get him into the building early and decide what we are going to do either way. He has some upside, but I think it’s going to take a bit to dig it out of him.
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