It has been more than a decade since any UNLV NFL Draft prospects heard their name called on the draft stage. In our UNLV scouting reports for 2023, we examine whether that will change this year as we look at the strength and weaknesses of each of their prospects.
UNLV 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
Adam Plant Jr., LB
Strengths: Tall, thin linebacker who has been very productive the past three years. Relentless, moves well around the field, and is rarely off his feet. Stands over tackle, quickly gets up the field, and shows good edge speed. Easily changes direction, quickly gets into space, and makes the tackle. Plays heads-up football, quickly locates the action, and is effective in pursuit.
Weaknesses: Possesses a thin build and is easily out-positioned from the action or gets caught up in the trash. Knocked from his angle of attack by a single opponent when rushing the passer. Not related to Robert Plant.
Overall: Plant was a solid defensive player for UNLV and comes with an upside, but he must get stronger and stouter to have a place at the next level.
Austin Ajiake, LB
Strengths: Explosive run-defending linebacker coming off a terrific season. Instinctive, immediately diagnoses plays, and quickly locates the ball handler. Moves well laterally in pursuit, remains disciplined with assignments, and quickly gets out into space to make the play. Tracks the pass in the air, shows ability in zone, and flows to the action. Breaks down well, takes on blockers, and lets teammates get to the ball.
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Weaknesses: Not a big or sturdy linebacker. Gets overmatched by tight ends in coverage. Really doesn’t get much depth on pass drops.
Overall: Ajiake was a tackling machine for UNLV, posting 206 tackles the past two seasons as well as 11 TFLs last year. He’s a one-gap defender who turned in a tremendous pro day workout and comes with a special-teams mentality.
Daviyon McDaniel, OL
Strengths: Charleston Southern transfer who showed ability at left tackle for UNLV. Keeps his feet moving, quickly sets up in pass protection, and is effective with his hands. Quick to the second level and seals linebackers from the action.
Weaknesses: Lacks footwork and lateral range. Tends to fall off blocks rather than finish off opponents. Must improve his overall fundamentals.
Overall: McDaniel has decent size and growth potential as well as long arms, but he must get stronger and finish his game.