2019 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Prospect: Jachai Polite
![]() School: Florida Ht: 6'2" Wt: 260 Eligibility: JR Uniform: #99 Position: EDGE |
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All Scouting Reports | Prospect Bio |
Evaluated by: James Siebers jsiebers1003@gmail.com ![]() Jachai Polite has an exceptional athletic profile and should have the juice to be one of the first pure pass rushers to be taken this April. We have Polite listed at 6'2" and 260 lbs, though the Florida Gators official website has him weighing in at 242 lbs - we await the Combine weigh-in. Polite is considered to be undersized and may need to add bulk to hold up against the run. However, Polite has a rare combination of both vertical and lateral explosion. His quickness to the edge and ability to pursue to the sideline make him an extraordinarily intriguing prospect. Polite projects as a pass rush specialist early in his career. He has experience rushing the passer from both a two-point and a three-point stance. Though his first step as a stand-up rusher is a tad delayed, Polite gets to full speed quickly and has the ability to stress the edge on a regular basis. While Polite struggles to convert speed-to-power, he's shown the ability to consistently execute inside counters which include a devastating spin move. ![]() Due to a lack of bulk and length, there are some concerns about Polite's ability to hold up at the point of attack. Polite was routinely able to execute contain responsibilities at Florida, but he can struggle to disengage from blockers. The majority of his negative yardage plays in the run game were the result of his ability to avoid and slip blocks. Polite has plus range with the ability to pursue the ball carrier and make plays at the sideline. Even as a player that routinely wins with finesse, Polite plays the game with an edge. Polite's motor is always running, and he displays a willingness to play the game with aggression and physicality. He recognizes keys and processes quickly. Even with a consistent motor, Polite often finds a way to dial it up in high-leverage situations. ![]() Bottom Line Polite put up incredible numbers in his final season in Gainesville, racking up 11 sacks, 19.5 TFL, and 6 forced fumbles. His best fit is likely as an edge rusher in a 3-4 scheme, though Polite could potentially project as a 4-3 OLB or even a 4-3 DE in the right system. Polite's lack of size may limit him as pass rush specialist on obvious passing downs early on, but his athletic profile indicates that he may be able to excel in that role. Polite's rare athletic skills almost guarantee that he'll be selected in the top half of RD1, and he could be one of the Draft's top risers with a strong showing at the Combine. NFL player oomparison Takkarist McKinley, Atlanta Falcons (2017 RD1 Pick 26) Strengths - Freak athlete - Excellent burst, especially from a three-point stance - Explosive both vertically and laterally - Varied pass rush moves - spin move is particularly effective - Great motor Weaknesses - Lacks length desired for the EDGE - Can be overwhelmed due to lack of size and power - Can struggle to make plays once engaged
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Scouting Video Courtesy of SD Highlights |