Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
Jonah Elliss
- Utah
- Height-6017
- Weight-243 lbs
- Third-year Junior
- 3-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 78 tackles, 47 solo, 23.0 tackles for loss, 16.0 sacks, 3 passes defended, 3 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries
- Games watched: Washington 2023, USC 2023, Oregon State 2023
Strengths
Elliss is a technically sound edge rusher. Understands how to attack the offensive line with a bevy of pass-rush moves. Push/pull and the spin move are two favorites but uses active hands to win consistently.
With his pass-rush repertoire, Elliss displays really active hands. He consistently hits the blockers’ hands and prevents them from engaging.
Along with being technically sound, Elliss has an active motor. He runs hot consistently and showcases effort in droves.
Weaknesses
There isn’t a ton to like about his athletic profile. Doesn’t display a truly explosive first step. He needs to be upright to have a truly effective get-off.
Size and muscle mass is a concern. Elliss looks lean on tape and when he engages, it shows up in droves. He gets blown off the ball too easily and his lack of anchor gets exposed, especially in the running game.
He uses multiple pass-rush moves, but bending around the edge isn’t one of them. Displays relatively stiff hips trying to attack the tackle’s outside shoulder.
When he is rushing the passer, Elliss looks like he’s attacking in slow motion. Often his pass-rush moves end up looking slow and a step behind where they should be.
Tackling is a concern and it’s rooted in his strength profile. Missed 20.7% of his tackles in 2023 and 17.2% of them in his career.
Overview
| Bend | 7.0/10 |
| Quickness/Burst | 11.0/15 |
| Finesse | 4.0/5 |
| Power | 3.6/5 |
| Counters | 7.9/10 |
| Awareness | 7.4/10 |
| Run Defense | 7.6/10 |
| Versatility | 7.0/10 |
| Size/Length | 10.3/15 |
| Tackling | 6.5/10 |
| Grade | 72.3/100 Fourth Round |
Elliss’ lack of high-end athletic profile will limit him at the next level but the motor and ability to grow into his frame makes him an interesting option on day three for teams that run odd fronts.
