Nicolas Clayton

Developmental edge defender with a sprouting frame that can bend and redirect. Instant eye-catcher the winter before his 12th grade year at an Under Armour Next Camp outside of Orlando as he flashed both burst and agility. Only credited with three sacks as a junior, but footage from his senior spring game is very encouraging as he looks like a player that’s much more comfortable in his skin. First-step can cause plenty of issues for opposing tackles as he blasts out of a two-point stance and gets to work. Tends to find most success by hugging the ground and attacking the corner, but is also sudden enough to counter and dart inside. Should be viewed as a traits-heavy pass rusher that has a chance to emerge as an impact player at the Power Four level. Will likely need a few semesters to add some much-needed mass and get the body right, but could be utilized early on in collegiate career as a sub-package rusher.