Texas fans were treated to a surprise when Northeastern Oklahoma A&M defensive lineman Jamari Chisholm made a surprise announcement to sign with Texas. The junior college prospect was recently committed to Central Florida, but the Longhorns were able to stage an eleventh hour coup to add depth in the trenches. Georgia State also held offers from Minnesota, Syracuse, and Georgia State.
Chisholm officially visited Texas in January, but he wasn’t given an offer at that time. The Longhorns came in with a last minute offer, and they were able to secure the flip from Chisholm. Herman and his staff were on the prowl for a long, athletic defensive lineman to play multiple positions, and they appear to have found one with Chisholm. Chisholm spent two years at junior college, so he’ll have three years to play two once he reaches Austin.
Film Analysis:
Chisholm has a great frame at 6’5, 290 lbs. He has long arms, which he uses to control offensive linemen at the point of attack. Chisholm shows a quick first step off the line, and violent hands he shoots quickly to knock his opponent off balance. Chisholm plays with good leverage, and he plays with a strong base to anchor against the run. Chisholm is better against the run than he is against the pass, but he does show an array of pass rushing moves including an inside rip to defeat his man. He’s at his best using his quickness and strength to bull rush and collapse the pocket from the inside. Chisholm could play inside as a three-technique or on the end as a 4i or 5-technique. When he’s outside he shows a decent ability to convert speed to power in the pass rush, but he’s more of a strong end. Chisholm shows a good motor, and he runs well in the open field when chasing the play down from the backside. He plays with a mean streak, and his versatility allows for usage in a number of different fronts.
Final Verdict:
Chisholm is a solid pick up for Texas, especially late in the cycle. Texas searched far and wide for a player of his ability and versatility, and he should be a fit right away to contribute. Chisholm is already physically developed to play at the college level, and the need for players in the trenches will push him onto the field early. Chisholm is already close to a finished product, but he should be able to contribute depth and challenge for a starting spot. If he reaches his ability at the FBS level he could be a multi-year starter with a possible future in the NFL.
