Bryan Bresee is a realistic target for the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2023 NFL Draft. The Clemson star had one of the better days at the NFL Combine, showcasing his athleticism and measuring out as expected. In the on-field workouts, he looked spry and moved incredibly well for a player of his size.
Bryan Bresee’s Difficult 2022 Season
Bresee dealt with constant questions regarding his level of play in 2022. In fairness to the critics, the tape was a rough watch. However, in fairness to Bresee, last year was one of the most challenging years that a person could ever deal with.
After battling brain cancer, Bresee’s 15-year-old sister, Ella, passed away in September. The mental toll it takes on a person when they lose their sibling is unimaginable, and it’s reasonable to believe that’s what negatively impacted his play in the final year of his Clemson tenure.
Before the 2022 campaign — and even late into it — Bresee was a fixture in the top ten of every mock draft around. The 2021 tape is as impressive as it gets, with Bresee exhibiting top-tier athleticism and agility that guys half his size wish they had. He is strong when engaged with an offensive lineman and boasts an array of pass-rushing moves from the interior.
Back in 2019, Bryan Bresee led Damascus to a 38-0 dub to take home the 3A state title.
He always been THAT DUDE. @bryan_bresee | @ClemsonFB | @DmassFootball pic.twitter.com/pJkP3DgCW5
— Zack Poff (@Zack_Poff_MP) March 3, 2023
Bryan Bresee Aces Workouts at NFL Combine
During workouts on Thursday, Bresee blew away several media members and scouts in attendance. He logged a 4.86 40-yard dash, marking a spectacular number for someone as tall as he is. The NFL Combine drills looked more like 2021 Bresee than the 2022 tape did.
The former five-star recruit and No. 1 overall recruit in the country has always had the talent to be an NFL star, but inconsistent tape in his final season is not the only red flag on his resume. That dubious honor goes to medical concerns.
Potential Fit with the Raiders
Bresee tore his ACL and received shoulder surgery during his time with the Tigers. These injuries are especially concerning given how massive Bresee is and how much pressure he puts on his joints. Battling in the trenches vs. NFL talent for a 17-game schedule could present durability issues.
However, the talent of Bresee is still top ten in the 2023 NFL Draft. He is capable of playing anywhere from nose tackle all the way down to the four-technique. Bresee generates pressure and collapses the pocket consistently while also proving to be a force in the run game.
The Raiders need a difference-maker on the defensive line and depending on how the board falls in front of them, Bresee might be the most reasonable option. He bolsters the pass rush and improves the run defense from day one, and if he stays healthy, Bresee could be an All-Pro early in his career.
Medicals from the NFL Combine will ultimately determine if Vegas feels comfortable taking the Clemson alum early in round one. Keep an eye out for Bresee and the Raiders pairing up.
*Top Photo: Travis Bell/Sideline Carolina
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