Measurables – Pro Day Results (percentile rating)
Height: 6-1 1/4 (17%)
Weight: 292 (15%)
40 Yard Dash: 4.98 (79%)
Bench Reps (225 lbs): 29 reps (64%)
Vertical: 31” (71%)
3-Cone: 7.71 (47%)
Broad Jump: 104” (42%)
What sets Hurst apart?
Hurst’s get off is one the best in the class which led to him consistently pushing the pocket. Hurst led the nation with 49 pressures from the interior and ranked 3rd in pass-rush productivity according to PFF. His vertical was in the 71st percentile which is a good indicator of a player’s explosion, and you definitely see it on tape.
"“Hurst is an upfield three-technique who gets out of the blocks ahead of his competition as soon as the starter’s pistol goes off.” – NFL Network’s Lance Zierlein"
Take a look at this play against Minnesota:
(Courtesy of Draft Breakdown)
Hurst combines his get off with excellent leverage to get in the backfield quickly.
Here’s another tremendous get off:
Next look at his hand usage on this swim move:
This is precisely the type of plays that the Raiders need in the trenches. Hurst also brings a relentless motor which is something I know head coach Jon Gruden will love.
"“There isn’t another interior player that can come close to his production as a pass-rusher in college and everything on tape suggests it will translate to the NFL. ” – Pro Football Focus Draft Guide."
Ability in the Run Game
Now people will talk about his size and worry that he won’t be able to hold up in the run game. Yes, he isn’t going to dominate every double team and clog run lanes, but that was never his game, to begin with. The Raiders just paid Justin Ellis to take care of that 1-tech role. Hurst needs to be strictly a 3-tech where he can explode of the ball and be disruptive. And that translates to the pass and run game.
"“If you just watch his film overall and just watch how disruptive he is, it is really hard to say he’s not one of the best players in the draft. I believe he is a top 10 guy.” – Ted Nguyen of the Athletic."
People too often equate good run defense with being able to clog the middle, but quick gap penetration can be just as effective. Hurst can get into the backfield to either stuff the play before it starts or force the running back to change course.
Examples:
If he's available at 30, I would take Maurice Hurst over almost anyone. Elite first step, burst and quickness, savvy with his hands, smart, and an ideal scheme fit.
— Nick Olson (@NickOlsonNFL) April 16, 2018
Could contribute immediately in a rotation, start in 2019 and be a multi-pro bowl player under Zimmer. pic.twitter.com/2KxGTFlkpr
I feel Hurst is capable of holding his own in the run game. It may not be in the traditional sense, but it works.