The Denver Broncos selected Iowa State defensive end Eyioma Uwazurike in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL draft last Saturday (116th overall).
Uwazurike (6-6, 316 pounds) is a five-technique lineman poised to replace Shelby Harris. He was general manager George Paton’s first of seven picks on Day 3.
As a DE in a 3-4 system, the “defensive ends” are basically slimmer DTs. As opposed to the nose tackle committed to eating up blocks for his counterparts, the DE can bring a pass rush.
Talking about his pass-rush ability, Uwazurike said, “I would say when it comes to pass-rushing … I have the right amount of strength, speed and quickness that I can use all three of them really well. I’m not just a one-trick pony when it comes to pass rushing. I have a variety of different things I can use, so I think that’s what helps my pass rush a lot.”
The Iowa State product added that he needs to improve on his “pad level and hands” in the NFL. He said that the “small technique things that work a lot in the NFL” is his focus as well.
Uwazurike totaled 32 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks in 13 starts for the Cyclones in his final collegiate season. Check out our bio of Uwazurike here, and his highlights above.