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NFL Draft: Top 25 prospects from the Big 12

By Briley Hughes

NORMAN, OK - NOVEMBER 10: Quarterback Kyler Murray #1 of the Oklahoma Sooners approaches the stands after the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Norman, Oklahoma. Oklahoma defeated Oklahoma State 48-47. (Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images)
NORMAN, OK - NOVEMBER 10: Quarterback Kyler Murray #1 of the Oklahoma Sooners approaches the stands after the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Norman, Oklahoma. Oklahoma defeated Oklahoma State 48-47. (Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
(Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

David Long finished the 2018 season with 108 tackles. Recording more than the always-desired 100 tackle mark shouldn’t overshadow the other areas Long contributed to West Virginia Mountaineers’ defense last season.

With seven sacks, two forced fumbles and 19.5 tackles for loss, Long also consistently found his way into the backfield to disrupt the opposing quarterback and running game. All of which contributed to him being named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2018 and declaring after his junior season for the NFL Draft. According to Rotoworld, West Virginia’s coaches also described Long as “easily the toughest dude” in their program.

Though only 5-foot-11, Long is a stout 221 pounds and has excellent tackling technique. His lack of length, however, does lead to difficulty getting off blocks, but that didn’t stop him from pressuring the quarterback in college. Long excels at diagnosing plays, attacking the line of scrimmage and shooting the gaps. His play recognition at the line of scrimmage doesn’t translate to coverage skills, unfortunately, and his ability to cover receivers could be categorized as his biggest weakness heading into the draft.

Overall, though, Long will bring battle-tested toughness, competitiveness and smarts to an NFL team. Long is currently flying under the radar, but that could change if he can show out at the combine.

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