Atlanta Falcons defensive end Vic Beasley put up monster numbers at last year's NFL combine. Before being selected with the eighth overall pick, Beasley (6-foot-3, 249lbs) ran a 4.53 40-yard dash, posted a 41 inch vertical jump and completed the three-cone drill in 6.91 seconds. Those numbers are similar to what quick cornerbacks put up. They are not what you typically see from an edge rusher.
Yet despite all of Beasley's physical skills, the 23-year-old somewhat disappointed during his rookie season. He didn't really boost Atlanta's sack numbers as the team ranked just 23rd in the league with 32.0 and he was never a consistent impact player. However, dig a little deeper and Beasley's rookie year may have been better than you thought.
"Beasley recorded only four sacks in 2015, which is low for a top-10 pick," ESPN NFL Insider Matt Bowen wrote. "But I caution against looking only at box scores to analyze his production: Beasley progressively improved over the course of the season, based on the tape I watched. That's a sign of development at a position in which rookies often struggle. It's hard to consistently win on the edge in the NFL. Speed, or burst, is one thing - you need that. But can you set up offensive tackles, use multiple moves at the point of attack, win with your hands and create a positive angle to put a hit on the quarterback? This stuff takes time (and reps) to truly see results."
It's true that Beasley improved as the season went on. He began to add countermoves and secondary tricks to his pass-rushing instead of just relying on his raw speed and power. Over his last four games, Beasley notched two sacks and forced one fumble. He could carry that solid finish into next season.
"With that one year of experience, tape to self-scout in the offseason and a better feel for the pro game, Beasley will be in position to produce more and become a disruptive edge rusher in Dan Quinn's scheme," Bowen continued. "Although he needs to improve against the run game (another transition for college players), his development is something to watch in 2016. All that speed and power? A lot of talent here."
