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Originally Posted by HUbison
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I recall people saying that he doesn't have the "elite" or "freakish" athleticism that a relatively few NFL players possess, but not that he isn't athletic. There's a big difference.
I pasted the pertinent parts of your links below and none of them really contend that he's not athletic and some even say the opposite.
"He's a first-round-caliber athlete," said Rob Rang, senior analyst for NFLDraftScout.com. "Even if he had zero instincts and zero technique, he'd still be worthy of the first round.
As a pass rusher, he makes plays because of his combination of strength and athleticism.
At 6-5, 275 lbs, the elder Long was a terror that recorded 93 sacks for his career. Chris is a bit bigger and far stronger, but he lacks his Dad’s athleticism.
But considering that there's a perception about him that his weakness is a lack of great athleticism, his decision to do all the workouts at the combine is a good one: His stock won't drop, but it could rise even higher.
DE Chris Long, Virginia – While not the flashiest of the top players, Long is most likely to still be cashing NFL paychecks a dozen years from now. On and off the field, he’s already the consummate professional, a fundamentally sound workaholic that any defense and franchise would love to have under contract.
Weaknesses:
Doesn't have great timed speed or quickness...May not have a lot of upside...Not a great natural pass rusher...Isn't going to strike fear into the hearts of opposing offensive tackles off the edge...Was not overly productive prior to his senior year.