2022 Draft Prospect Norfolk State EDGE De'Shaan Dixon
Updated: Mar 2, 2022
De'Shaan Dixon this week has impressed many at the East-West Shrine game with his size and abilities. In 1-on-1 drills this week he has been able to beat Lineman with his strength, length, and hand placement. During this season, Dixon was able to do the same thing and had a very good season. He ended 2021 with 54 total tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss and 9 sacks. Dixon did a lot for the Norfolk State defense this season, he dropped into coverage he slid inside, he can rush out of a two point or three point stance. His versatility is another thing that will interest teams. Dixon also does a lot that doesn't show up on the stat sheet like. In this clip against Toledo, you will see Dixon win his matchup by driving his guy all the way to the QB then disengage with good hand fighting. He doesn't secure the sack himself but allows his teammates enough time to get to the QB for a loss.
One thing that is evident on film when watching Dixon is his motor, he never stops and is very disruptive whether he gets home or not, as DE he has 4 pass breakups at the line. Being an edge rusher is more than just getting to the QB, its about disrupting the passing game. Dixon does a great job of making QBs feel uncomfortable even when he isn't around them.
In this next video will show his performance in a very close game against the first clip will be Dixon rushing from the interior and disrupting the timing of the QB resulting in his teammates getting a sack. The next clip shows him take on blocks from pulling blockers and making a run stop for a short gain. The third shows two clutch plays he makes with just two minutes on the clock to give his offense he ball back down by 3.
*All Video is from Cut Day Sports* on YouTube*
Dixon has a lot of tools that he will be able to showcase this coming Thursday. He is very raw but has the potential to be a very productive pro with his size, bend, hand fighting, motor, and versatility. During practice he has gotten reps inside and outside so i hope he gets that opportunity in the game on Thursday.