2020 NFL Draft Scouting Report
James Lynch, DT, Baylor
Career Snapshot
Two-year starter who was named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, led the conference with 13.5 sacks and made 41 tackles (19.5 for loss) with three forced fumbles and five pass breakups as a junior in 2019. Earned Second Team All-Big 12 honors and made 40 tackles (nine for loss) with 5.5 sacks as a sophomore.
Positives
Game-impacting pass rusher who displayed consistent progress during his career. Breaks down well, plays with terrific pad level and shows a variety of moves to get off blocks. Instinctive, quickly locates the action and slides down the line to make plays on the ball. Nicely redirects to the action and immediately alters his angle of attack. Keeps his feet moving, works his hands and consistently gets leverage on opponents. Can bend off the edge, displays a burst of closing speed and wraps up tackling.
Negatives
Lacks great first-step quickness off the snap. Must improve his strength, as he gets tied up in blocks or out positioned by bigger opponents.
Analysis
Lynch is a developing lineman who has displayed natural pass-rushing skill the past three seasons. He needs to physically mature and add strength to his game, but Lynch could ultimately be a solid defensive end in a three-man line or even kick inside and be used as a three-technique tackle.