LT Overton, EDGE, Alabama
Size:
Height: 6’5” | Weight: 285 lbs
Accomplishments:
Four-star recruit
“LT Overton provides a unique combination of IDL size with edge rusher movement skills and athleticism, which allows him to be a versatile defensive lineman who provides high-level reps against the run and the pass.”
Strengths:
Alignment/position versatility
Good range and change of direction
High motor/effort
Functional strength/power
Concerns:
Lack of defined role
Lack of detailed pass-rush plan
High pad level against the run
Film Analysis:
LT Overton is a former five-star prospect who initially committed to Texas A&M, where he spent the first two years of his collegiate career. Overton transferred to the University of Alabama for the 2024 season and has become an integral part of a front seven that has continued to evolve throughout the year. Listed at 285 pounds, Overton possesses a rare combination of size and athleticism, allowing him to excel in various assignments and take advantage of mismatches along the offensive front, both against the run and as a pass rusher.
Against the run, Overton’s approach to winning changes based on his alignment. When reduced inside to an interior defensive line position, he presents a challenge for offensive linemen with his speed, using it to get upfield quickly and disrupt plays in the backfield. His blend of size, strength, and quickness makes him difficult to block, especially when focused on winning with speed. In one-on-one situations, Overton has the strength to lock out offensive linemen, maintain the line of scrimmage, and shed blocks to uphold gap integrity. When aligned on the edge, Overton effectively sets a strong edge, forcing outside runs back inside toward the defense. On the edge, he plays with good pad level and leverage, enabling him to control blocks with well-placed hands.
As a pass rusher, Overton’s style is best described as unique. His size and power give him a distinct advantage over offensive tackles, who are often unaccustomed to handling a rusher of his build. Despite his size, Overton can use speed to win around the edge and demonstrates impressive fluidity and bend to turn the arc and reach the quarterback. Additionally, he can convert speed to power effectively, keeping offensive tackles honest since he can either beat them with speed or overpower them for a quick sack. Overton can also be utilized as an interior pass rusher, providing pressure up the middle and adding versatility for defensive coordinators who can deploy him in multiple alignments along the line.
Overton’s areas for improvement lie in both the run game and pass rush, focusing on consistency. While his ability to play multiple positions is valuable, it may hinder his ability to consistently apply specific techniques suited to each position. Against the run, he occasionally plays too high when positioned as an IDL, exposing his chest plate and allowing offensive linemen to make effective blocks. As a pass rusher, he shows flashes of brilliance but would benefit from developing a more detailed rush plan when working off the edge.
Overall, Overton’s combination of size, power, and athleticism gives him the potential to be a unique asset in the NFL. If he continues to refine the technical aspects of his game, he could become an invaluable piece in a variety of defensive schemes.
Prospect Projection: Day 2 — Winning Starter
Written By: Keith Sanchez
Exposures: LSU (2024), Wisconsin (2024), Arkansas (2024), Georgia (2024)
