Oregon vs. Auburn: 7 Best 2020 NFL Draft prospects to watch

EUGENE, OR - SEPTEMBER 22: Quarterback Justin Herbert #10 of the Oregon Ducks passes the ball during the third quarter of the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Autzen Stadium on September 22, 2018 in E (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)
EUGENE, OR - SEPTEMBER 22: Quarterback Justin Herbert #10 of the Oregon Ducks passes the ball during the third quarter of the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Autzen Stadium on September 22, 2018 in E (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 7
Next

4. Troy Dye, LB, Oregon

Coming into the season, Troy Dye’s obvious best trait is his athleticism. He plays fast at all times and uses his athletic ability to his advantage. No matter what, Dye flashes on film with his ability to chase down ball carriers. If he’s asked to blitz, he understands how to get skinny and exploit gaps.

When chasing down the ball carrier, he also shows excellent speed. And, thanks to his long 6-4 frame, he does a solid job bringing them down. At times, he can play out of control and get out of position. He also doesn’t look for contact and too often relies on his front to keep him clean.

Dye is only 225 pounds coming into the 2019 season and, sometimes, he can get washed out of a play. He’s not an instinctive linebacker but he has value in coverage. Because of his apparent length and speed, he can match up against tight ends and running backs. He moves well in space and does a solid job closing in on the ball when dropped into zone coverage.

As of now, he’s a lock as a day-two prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. If he can add weight and get stronger, he’s likely to shoot up draft boards. Currently, Dye is the modern-day prototypical fit on the weak side in a 4-3 scheme with room to grow as an overall linebacker.