School: North Carolina State
Status: Senior
Height: 6-6
Weight: 245
40-Yard Dash: 4.70 (EST)
Positives:
A quick pass rusher, Manny Lawson has great size and speed. A sack machine, he is physically gifted and does a great job of using that athleticism to blow through the line. Lawson has great experience and has faced very talented offensive lines, especially in the ACC. He has a very long reach and elusive, quick frame. Lawson also is very effective blocking kicks and punts.
Negatives:
Lawson has definitely benefited from the outstanding play of opposite defensive end Mario Williams. Could add some bulk if he wishes to play DE in the NFL. Lawson needs to become smarter and learn not to primarily use his speed to beat defenders because offensive linemen at the next level are more athletic.
Overview:
Should consider the switch to outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense where he can rush the passer and use his athleticism to drop back in coverage. If he bulks up and adds muscle he could be very similar to a Demarcus Ware type player. Lawson has all the tools that can’t be taught, but needs to mature and become more polished to become a better pure player.
