STRENGTHS: Adequate frame and arm length...quick first step with contact balance around the edge...natural lean and body bend to win the corner and curl around blockers, using strong ankles and plant foot to generate power from his lower body...aggressively takes on contact with knee bend to stay low and leverage blocks vs. the run.
Violent hands at the point of attack...motor doesn't quit with a seemingly endless amount of energy, whether it's on the practice field or game day...always tries to be a factor in the play, using his length to knock down throws (10 career pass break-ups)...gritty competitor, self-motivated and shows a love for the game, studying his craft - voted senior captain...durable and played in every game the last four seasons (37 starts), taking care of his body to stay durable...consistent production and leaves school with the school record for tackles for loss (52.0) and sacks (37.5).
WEAKNESSES: Reportedly suffered a broken foot during a pre-draft workout, but is expected to be ready for training camp. Lacks ideal build and weight for the position - lack of strength shows on tape...has the length and active hands to disrupt blockers, but needs to improve the consistency with his extension and punch...doesn't protect his body and needs to combat blockers' reach - can be washed out of plays when he is caught up inside.
Collapses down and attacks the quarterback, losing contain and selling out for the sack...ball awareness needs improved, going with the action and struggling to recognize play fakes...relies on effort and snap quickness over polished pass rush moves...overpursues and misses tackles in space...lacks ideal experience dropping and manipulating space - wasn't asked to cover on a regular basis...all of his experience has come at the FCS level.
IN OUR VIEW: A late bloomer, Wagenmann wasn't planning to play college football until his senior season when Montana showed interest, starring as a three-year starter and leaving school as the all-time sack leader - Montana coaches say he's better than former Grizzlies pass rusher Kroy Biermann. He lined up primarily as a hand-on-the-ground end in college, but has tweener size, strength and athletic traits that make him a possible conversion rusher.
Wagenmann attacks the pocket with reckless abandon and nonstop energy, but needs to add discipline to his process and locate quicker. He currently lacks the power and polish to be an every-down rusher in the NFL, but projects as a nickel rusher who should push the starters in year two or three after a few years of pro coaching.
