16 Jul Preseason Scouting Notes: Hamilcar Rashed Jr., EDGE, Oregon State
Redshirt Senior | 6’4” 238 lbs | Phoenix, AZ | Jan. 2, 1998
A long, speedy 3-4 outside linebacker who is dangerous as a pass rusher and overcomes his lack of size as a run defender with leverage and explosive hip torque
Overview:
Hamilcar Rashed Jr. came to Oregon State as a 210-pound 3-star LB recruit and redshirted his first year on campus before working his way up the depth chart. He earned a starting role during his redshirt sophomore season and broke out in a big way the following season, going from 2.5 sacks to a school record 14 in 2019. Rashed lines up on the LOS in the Beavers’ 3-4 defense in a 2-point stance, and while he’s mostly asked to rush the passer and set the edge, he occasionally is asked to man up against tight ends in coverage or an alley dropper in zone.
Strengths:
– Explosive get off and first step. Closes space on OL quickly
– Shows an array of competent pass rush moves. Has a nice outside speed chop move and counters with an inside club-swim (his favorite)
– Rare play speed and range for the position. Makes him ideal for an edge contain role against read option QBs
– Long, powerful arms aid both his block shedding ability and pass rush moves
– Showcases good outside bend, with solid hip and ankle flexibility to turn the corner
– Great lateral mobility to chase down plays from the backside
– Proper leverage and good explosion on hip torque help him overcome size disadvantages
– Good motor. Chases down plays from across the field often and plays full speed consistently
– Disciplined edge setter who forces plays inside and rarely gets washed out despite punching above his weight class
Areas to improve:
– Far too often an arm tackler. While his wrap up strength is good, his reliance on his arms while tackling can be detrimental
– Leaves his chest open and vulnerable for OL to attack far too often
– Simply doesn’t have the overall mass to drop an anchor against opposing double teams on the edge
– Refining his hand accuracy will take him to the next level as a pass rusher
– Needs more seasoning in coverage to show teams he can be a productive alley and flat dropper
Injury concerns:
– Suffered a left hand injury late in the 2019 season, but didn’t miss any games
Projection:
Rashed’s play speed, lengthy arms and pass rushing prowess give him an intriguing skill combination that will be useful on the edge for 3-4 teams or 4-3 teams that utilize a Wide-9 front. As a rookie, Rashed might need to add weight before he can become a three-down player simply because many OTs will have 70-plus pounds on him. But he can start as a third-down nickel rusher and core special teamer while he grows into an every down role. If he reaches his ceiling, Rashed will be an adequate run defender and 10-sack-per-year player who helps quell read option QBs and doesn’t kill you in coverage. Expect him to be taken early on Day 2, with a high chance of being taken on Day 1 if he adds play strength and refines his hand use.
What to watch in 2020:
The main thing to watch for Rashed is whether or not he can build upon his 14-sack campaign. While he was able to finish many of his QB pressures with takedowns, Rashed’s pressure rate suggests he might be in for some regression this season, which could cause his stock to fluctuate. Adding mass/play strength while maintaining his high-end speed will be of primary concern, while refining and expanding his pass rush arsenal will also be important for his development. With many NCAA teams shelving conference play, make sure to circle Oregon State versus Oregon when Rashed tangles with Penei Sewell.
- XTB’s Director of Scouting
- Bay Area-born sports lover who has worked in the football industry as a journalist, coach, film analyst, and scout.
- Currently a graduate student attending the UMass Sport Management program, and received his BA in journalism at Hofstra University.