Demarcus Lawrence
Summary
DeMarcus Lawrence was selected in the 2nd Round (#34 Overall) of the 2014 Draft out of Boise State University. Lawrence is an elite NFL pass rusher with a proven ability to generate sacks, pressures, and disrupt offenses. His strengths lie in explosiveness, pass-rush technique, versatility, and run defense. The main concerns are durability, consistency in extended action, and age-related decline. With proper usage and health management, Lawrence continues to be a cornerstone defensive player and a threat on the edge.
Strengths
Elite Pass-Rushing Skillset: Lawrence excels with a variety of pass-rush moves, including swim moves, bull rushes, and speed rushes. He generates pressure both inside and outside and has consistently been among the league leaders in sacks when healthy. Good hand usage and ability to counter offensive linemen’s counters allow him to win one-on-one matchups.
Explosive Athleticism: Combines power and speed off the edge, capable of closing quickly and creating disruption before blockers can adjust. Quick first step makes him dangerous in short-yardage situations and against mobile quarterbacks.
Versatility: Can line up at multiple spots along the defensive line, including 4-3 defensive end and 3-4 outside linebacker in pass-rush roles. Effective in both base and sub-package alignments, contributing against the run and pass.
Run Defense Ability: While primarily known as a pass rusher, Lawrence is stout against the run when engaged and can set the edge effectively, forcing ball carriers back inside.
Football IQ & Experience: Reads offensive schemes well and understands tendencies, which helps him anticipate plays and align strategically against blocking schemes.
Weaknesses
Injury History / Durability Concerns: Multiple injuries, including shoulder and ankle issues, have limited his playing time in several seasons. Durability remains a concern as he ages.
Consistency in Long Games: While explosive early in games, he sometimes loses effectiveness against high-quality offensive lines over the course of a game. Conditioning and stamina can affect late-game production.
Coverage Limitations: Not used in pass coverage often, and coverage ability is limited. This limits his versatility in schemes that require linebackers or ends to drop into zones frequently.
Age-Related Decline Risk: At 30+, edge rushers generally see a decline in burst and flexibility. Maintaining peak explosiveness and production will be key for Lawrence’s future.
Fit & Outlook
Lawrence seems to undergone something of a renaissance moving from a stale Cowboys defense to Seahawks front that is a buzz saw creating pressure with hybrid looks. Lawrence continues to be a key playmaker on third downs and in passing situations. He is a veteran leader on defense. As long as he remains healthy, he will continue to be an impact edge rusher. At this stage in his career, Lawrence projects as a high-quality rotational or starting edge defender into his early 30s.