Patriots 2023 NFL Draft: 4 linebackers with extreme upside
Patriots linebacker prospects: DeMarvion Overshown, Texas
If the New England Patriots have the patience to develop an athlete like DeMarvion Overshown, then the reward could be great. The DeMarvion Missile is a big hitter that could initially be an asset on passing downs.
Overshown arrived at Texas as a safety but the Longhorns discovered his best fit was on the second level. Overshown is explosive when going downhill. As a blitzer, he gets to the quarterback quickly to disrupt the pass or sack the QB.
When not attacking, Overshown was effective in coverage. Thanks to his experience as a safety, he’s comfortable in man-to-man as well as zone. With his athleticism, Overshown has the ability to cover tight ends or backs out of the backfield. And with his length (6-4), Overshown should get his share of deflections.
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On the downside, Overshown has some filling out to do. He put on some weight in time for the NFL Combine, but only weighs 230 pounds. Even with long arms, Overshown is at risk of being turned into a speed bump by offensive linemen on run plays.
And Overshown is expected to struggle with disengaging from blocks, though that’s easier said than done when Overshown triggers downhill. It’s game over if blockers get to Overshown, but if the defensive line keeps him clean, he would stop ball carriers in their tracks between the tackles or to the sidelines.
Overshown’s ability on passing downs would be hard for the Patriots to pass on. A year or two with New England’s training staff would address the lack of strength and put Overshown in position to be a four down player.
If you don’t believe the New England Patriots would take an interest in a 230-pound linebacker, then you haven’t heard the rumor: