Cameron Heyward, Joey and Nick Bosa, Chase Young. These are some of the defensive linemen Ohio State has produced that have made impacts in the NFL. Coach Larry Johnson continues to churn out quality Buckeyes defensive linemen, and it’s not going to be stopping with Jack Sawyer.
Jack Sawyer was one of the top recruits in the Class of 2021. Growing up in Pickerington, Ohio, Jack decided to stay close to him and committed to play for Ryan Day and the Buckeyes. Throughout the past couple of years, Jack has made an impact for the Buckeyes with his play.
While Jack has made plays for the Buckeyes since his freshman season, his junior season was where he really showed how he can make an impact. Last year, he gathered second team All-Big Ten with getting 48 tackles (24 solo), he added 8.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks and 2 forced fumbles. This year so far, he has 22 tackles (12 solo) with 2.5 sacks, a tackle for loss, a forced fumble and fumble recovery.
PLAYER INFO
Name: Jack Sawyer
Jersey: 33
Position: DE
Class: Senior
School: Ohio State
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 260
STRENGTHS
Jack offers great size for the position. He offers versatility, as he can put his hand in the ground or stand up to attack. He has a great motor, not taking plays off and always chasing down offensive players. He uses different pass rush moves, showing that he doesn’t just rely on one move to win. He has great balance going against blockers, and he uses that balance to help lead runners back inside in the run game.
WEAKNESSES
He has limited athleticism, which doesn’t help him going up against offensive tackles. He has adequate get off speed, which can hurt him when trying to beat an offensive tackle. Watching his tape, he plays a little stiff which limits his effectiveness as a pass rusher.
PROJECTION
I see Jack Sawyer as a late first round pick fitting in well with a couple of teams who could be in the playoff picture in two months. Here are some of the teams who Sawyer fits well with:
- Washington Commanders: The Commanders future is bright but they still need to upgrade their defense. Sawyer has the perfect size for Quinn’s defense, and his high motor will help out the culture that Dan Quinn is building.
- Detroit Lions: While they traded for Za’Darius Smith, Detroit stills need a long-term future plan for pass rushers to complement Aidan Hutchinson. Sawyer fits right in with Detroit’s culture, and his versatility will help out the Lions defense.
- Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles are going to need pass rush help no matter what. They’re losing Brandon Graham to retirement, and Josh Sweat is going to be a free agent. Sawyer can slide in and develop with the Eagles.
