Georgia Tech's Adam Gotsis did not make a huge impact his freshman year, racking up 5 total tackles, 1.5 for loss, one sack and one pass break up in 12 appearances and one start. he following season, Gotsis earned a role in the starting lineup, totaling 38 tackles, 14.5 for loss, 5.5 sacks and one interception at nose tackle. He started 14 games on the defensive line in his junior season and was named to the All-ACC Second Team by both media and coaches. He registered 36 tackles, 6.5 for loss and three sacks on the season. As a senior, Gotsis started the initial nine games, until his season was cut short by a devastating knee injury. He completed the year with 31 tackles, five for loss, three sacks and two fumble recoveries.
The Basics
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 296 lbs
Arm Length: 34 1/8"
Hand: 10 ¾"
Bench Press Reps (BPR): 23
How He Compares To Other Defensive Lineman
DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon: 5.05 40 yard dash, 116" broad jump
Jonathan Bullard, DT, Florida: 4.93 40 yard dash, 23 BPR, 116" broad jump
Sheldon Day, DT, Notre Dame: 5.07 40 yard dash, 21 BPR, 102" broad jump
Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Ole Miss: 4.87 40 yard dash, 28 BPR, 116" broad jump
Emmanuel Ogbah, DE, Oklahoma State: 4.63 40 yard dash, 20 BPR, 121" broad jump
The Rundown
Positives
- Brick wall as a tackler and finishes very well - never turns his motor off, always looking to get in the play
- Shows surprisingly quick acceleration off the ball and splitting gaps
- Powerful at the point of attack and plays with a strong base
- Brawny prospect with long arms and big hands - naturally well-built and shows excellent leg-drive to push offensive lineman
Negatives
- Not a consistent pass rusher, but has room to improve
- Film often shows Gotsis standing straight up at the snap of the ball - pad level tends to get high allowing blockers into his chest
- Relies on length and frame over technique
- ACL injury may cause him to miss part of the 2016 season
Conclusion
While Gotsis is still a very raw prospect, he brings strength, hustle and an anchor at the point of attack right off the bat. One thing I like most about Gotsis is his versatility. He could play as a DE in a 3-4 defense, strong-side DE in a 4-3 or defensive tackle in a 4-3 front. He has tremendous upside as a run-stuffer and I believe he will continue to improve his ability to tail the passer, and eventually become an NFL starter. Due to the knee mishap, Gotsis is a late-round sleeper with Pro Bowl potential.