As their scouting reports indicate, the Syracuse Orange are likely to send some big dudes into the 2022 NFL Draft. Syracuse’s 2022 draft prospects are headlined by linemen Kingsley Jonathan and Josh Black. Both defensive linemen offer up athleticism with their size and could impact NFL defenses sooner than later. Here are the full scouting reports from Syracuse with eyes toward the 2022 NFL Draft.
Syracuse 2022 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
Both Black and Jonathan had their moments at Syracuse. They both were dominant and high-effort players at times, and they were joined by their fellow defensive teammate in McKinley Williams. On the other side of the ball, former tackle and longtime starter Airon Servais will also look to hear his name called in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Airon Servais, OL
Positives: Tall college blocker who was used at several spots on the offensive line. Played center in 2021 and displayed excellent quickness off the snap. Works his hands throughout the play. Keeps his head on a swivel, keeps his feet moving, and anchors in pass protection. Good position blocker who stays square and seals defenders from the action.
Negatives: Lined up at left tackle in 2020 but lacks footwork off the edge and struggles sliding out. Gets upright in his stance and does not consistently keep his knees bent.
Analysis: Servais was a five-year starter for Syracuse, who lined up at both left and right tackle as well as center. He gets the most from his ability but comes with average strength and athleticism and must improve his blocking fundamentals.
Josh Black, DL
Positives: Undersized, relatively athletic defensive tackle who needs a clean shot at the ball. Fires off the snap with an explosive first step, plays with terrific pad level, and gets leverage on opponents. Stays on his feet, displays good change-of-direction skills, and gives effort.
Negatives: Small. Easily controlled at the point and handled by a single blocker. Average pass rusher.
Analysis: Black is a high-effort prospect who comes with an upside and projects as a 3-technique tackle at the next level.
Kingsley Jonathan, DL
Positives: Undersized college defensive lineman who makes plays in every direction. Moves well laterally in pursuit of the action down the line of scrimmage, rarely gets knocked off his feet, and is very effective with his hands. Fires off the snap and plays with proper pad level.
Negatives: Small, lacks strength at the point, and gets handled by opposing tight ends. Comes with marginal upside.
Analysis: Jonathan is an intelligent defensive lineman who got the most from his ability on the college level, yet he lacks size and athleticism for the NFL.
McKinley Williams, DL
Positives: Once-promising prospect who watched his game fall off the past two seasons. Flashes power in his lower body, gets a lot of push up the field, and keeps his feet moving. Tough to move off the point, works his hands throughout the action, and slides off blocks laterally to make plays on the ball.
Negatives: Must develop more moves to get off blocks. Poor pass rusher. More of a gap occupier than a playmaker.
Analysis: I graded Williams as a prospect to watch moving forward after a solid sophomore season, but he never elevated his game. He possesses decent size as well as growth potential. However, he seems to be heading in the wrong direction the past few seasons.