Devonnsha Maxwell 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Background: 

• Academic standout

• Three-Time First-Team All-SoCon selecting entering 2022
• Graduated in 2021 with a degree in Psychology

System: 

• Scheme tendencies: Multiple fronts
• 2022 projected role: Starting DT

Pros: Devonnsha Maxwell has proven to be a standout and highly productive player across multiple seasons for the Chattanooga defense. He stands out most as a pass rusher, where his understanding of angles and effort to attack half a man combined with impressive effort leads to consistent heat on the quarterback. He does well to activate his hands and compete to grease angles and power through. He has a diverse arsenal of pass-rush moves and I like his ability to string together counters. Maxwell showcases impressive flexibility to work around edges, reduce, and finish. 

Cons: Devonnsha Maxwell has been an impact pass rusher at Chattanooga and his hand usage and flexibility certainly stand out, but for his game to translate to the next level, he needs to play faster. He has a tendency to play tall with modest play speed and block recognition ability. Can he get into his rush quicker and with more urgency? Maxwell only showcases a modest anchor and he can be worked out of his run fits due to slow processing and high pads—it appears he has good functional strength but has to play faster and with better leverage to maximize his power at the point of attack. There are instances where it appears he is peeking and looking for the football, which takes away from his technique to beat blocks and invites blockers into his frame. Maxwell turns 24 in May of 2023.

Devonnsha Maxwell NFL Draft Scouting Report by Joe Marino