In a typical defense, there are several key factors that you look for in an inside linebacker. He needs to be able to patrol the field in zone coverage. He’ll need to be able to maneuver the field with a good sense of lateral agility as he reads the quarterback’s eyes. Additionally, a good inside linebacker needs to be a solid option at stopping the run. If he can plug running lanes and locate the ball carrier in traffic, there’s typically a good chance of success. Finally, he must be able to rush the passer and put pressure on the quarterback. Palaie Gaoteote IV, the inside linebacker for the USC Trojans, possesses all of these traits, as I’ll layout in this scouting report.
In this summer scouting report, we’ll examine Gaoteote IV’s background and discover how he found his way to the USC Trojans. Next, we’ll turn on the game film and breakdown strengths and weaknesses in his abilities. Finally, we’ll turn our eyes to a possible decision to declare for the 2021 NFL Draft, and where he would match against other draft prospects.
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