NFL Draft Player Profile: Aaron Lynch of South Florida (USF)

by Derrik Klassen

(Lynch #19) Photo credit to thebiglead.com

In 2011, Lynch had a Clowney-like year at Notre Dame. As far fetched as it may sound, it is completely accurate. Unfortunately, Lynch decided to transfer to USF because he was home sick. The transfer made him ineligible to play in 2012. Lynch will return next season as one of the most dominant forces in college football.


We all Clowney possesses a quick twitch off of the snap, but Lynch's reaction time rivals Clowney's. Lynch gets up and out of his stance and into the opposing lineman's play before anybody else has even stood up. Despite his larger frame for a 4-3 DE, Lynch moves around rather quickly. His closing speed enables him to run over and wrap up the QB without him even being able to react. Against Michigan State, Lynch flew past the Guard nearly untouched and hit the QB before any routes could develop at all. Kirk Cousins (Michigan State's QB) didn't have a chance considering it was on his blindside. Although, his quickness isn't just in his feet. He sports a nasty swim move that is both quick and powerful. The lethal combo of speed and power leaves most offensive lineman completely helpless.

Lynch's athleticism expands beyond quickness though. He can drive opposing lineman right into the QB's lap or into a running lane and completely disrupt a play before it even begins. Lynch also sheds blocks well in the run game and dominates the point of attack. One of his few flaws is that he depends almost solely on his initial move when pass rushing. If his initial move isn't successful, he has been shut down. Lynch simply struggles to disengage after the opposing lineman has stuffed his first move. That being said, he is still a lethal pass rusher and a freak athlete. He currently ranks in my top 15 prospects of the 2014 class, but I wouldn't be surprised if he makes a top 10 appearance by the end of the season.