Summary

Drew Sanders was drafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, Round 3, (pick 67) out of University of Arkansas. Sanders is a high‑ceiling athlete whose game is anchored in explosive pass‑rush ability, raw versatility, and modern linebacker/edge flexibility. He offers teams a chess‑piece defender who can line up in multiple spots, rush the passer, drop into coverage, and run sideline‑to‑sideline. His athletic profile and length give him traits often prized in today’s hybrid fronts.

However, his profile is not yet fully refined. His relative lack of bulk and play strength means he may struggle in heavy‑run, power roles early. His run‑defense instincts and block‑shedding require improvement for him to be an all‑down every‑down impact player. Essentially, he projects as a dynamic contributor with starter upside, but with some work to do before reaching elite status.

Strengths

• Explosive first step & pass‑rush traits: Sanders is praised for his quick trigger off the line, ability to bend the edge, and natural pass‑rusher burst. From the NFL Draft Buzz profile: “He’s at his best in the pass rush … shows an explosive first step and the ability to dip and bend around blockers.” NFL Draft Buzz

• Versatility in alignment: He has experience playing both off‑edge and inside linebacker, giving teams flexibility. Cheesehead TV

• Length and athleticism: His large wingspan, fluid movement, and ability to cover sideline‑to‑sideline are noted as assets for space‑based plays and coverage. PFSN

• Play‑recognition & coverage potential: While primarily a rusher, he has shown ability to drop into zones, read plays, and flow downhill, which enhances his off‑edge value. PFSN

Weaknesses

• Lack of play‑strength and physical bulk: Many scouts flagged that his frame is light for an every‑down edge/linebacker, and he struggles when asked to hold blocks or anchor vs. power runs. For example: “His biggest issue is play strength … He can be easily outmuscled by roaming offensive linemen.” PFSN

• Run‑defense & block‑engagement concerns: Although he pursues well, he sometimes takes poor angles, overpursues, or fails to stack/shed blockers consistently in the run game. Field Gulls

• Relatively limited experience & refinement: He had only one full breakout season at Arkansas and some projection remains—his technique, counters, and full‑time role are still developing. Bleacher Report

• Recovery speed/top‑end burst: While his first step is strong, some evaluators note his long‑speed or recovery when beaten off the line is not elite, raising questions in deep or chase‑down scenarios.

Fit & Outlook

• Fit:
  Sanders is best suited for a defensive scheme that:

• utilizes hybrid linebackers/edge rushers and values versatility over pure size;

• deploys frequent sub‑packages, blitzes, and zone‑drops where his athleticism can shine;

• avoids asking him to consistently anchor heavy base‑run sets as a pure two‑gap inside linebacker.

• In a front that emphasizes movement, creativity, and space rather than brute‑force trench warfare, he can play to his strengths and accelerate his development.

• Outlook:

• Short‑Term: Expect Sanders to compete for significant snaps in pass‑rush/rotational roles in Year 1, especially on third downs or in sub‑packages. His athleticism may allow for immediate impact in specific situations.

• Medium‑Term: If he adds strength, refines his technique, and earns more foundational snaps, he could become a full‑time starter and a key impact player on the defense—especially as a hybrid off‑edge/linebacker.