Pollard was a stalwart along the Virginia Tech. defensive line. He played in every game over his five year career (61). He stared 48 games and was a two year starter.
In 13 games last season, Pollard had 24 total tackles, 7.5 TFLs, 4 sacks. Good production for an undersized shade/2i tackle.
Here is the scouting report on Norell Pollard
Norell Pollard, DT, 6-0 283, Virginia Tech
Vs. Run: Pollard is a one gap penetrator who wins on the snap. Gets inside hand position on blockers and is able to stack and shed consistently. Struggles to split double teams. Uses proper technique but doesn’t sink and split the double team well.
Pass Rush: Gets off the ball with some quickness. Bends naturally and rushes with good lean. Does a good job of punching, extending and leaning into a rip move. Does get caught at times and tries to spin out of things but gets out of his rush lane.
Pursuit:Pollard runs well laterally. Plays well down the line of scrimmage and has enough lateral quickness that he can get into his pursuit angle and finish plays from the backside. Needs to play more under control in his pursuit angles.
Tackling: A physical finisher on contact. Breaks down and wraps up. Good tackler in space something that is tough for most defensive linemen.
Initial Quicks: The strength of his game. Pollard wins with initial snap quickness and penetration. Disruptive. Creates havoc at times as a one gap penetrator.
Recognition: Experienced player who plays with good recognition. Attacks down blocks on a consistent basis and sees and attack trap and kick out blocks.
Neutralize Blocks: Pollard struggles with double teams. He gets off the ball quick and splits them but if he gets stuck, he lacks the strength to disengage and get off the block.
Key & Diagnose: Can transition from speed to power. Diagnoses pass sets from run blocks. High I.Q player who has played a lot of football in his college career and can diagnose plays consistently.
Final Report: Pollard is a good football player who is consistent and reliable. He profiles more as a situational pass rusher and back up. He met with the Patriots at Virginia Tech’s pro day.
Draft Range: 7th Round-UDFA