Fort Worth All Saints defensive end Max Cummins has seen a whirlwind of activity in the last few weeks. After flying under the radar for most of his high school career, Cummins saw his stock skyrocket in recent weeks. Baylor and Houston recently offered, while TCU and Oklahoma were showing significant interest. Texas offered Cummins on Tuesday night, and he immediately made his commitment. Cummins chose the Longhorns over offers from UCONN, Central Florida, Air Force, Houston, and Baylor.
Todd Orlando’s multiple defense requires versatile linemen to play all across the front. Cummins skillset will allow him line up at several positions along the line to give the defensive unit some flexibility. He joins Taquon Graham as the only other defensive lineman in the class at this time. Cummins is the 14th member of Tom Herman’s transition class, and he fills a hole that was left when Lagaryonn Carson decommitted.
Film Analysis:
Cummins has great size at 6’6 250 lbs., with room to add weight and play above 270. He has great length with long arms and wide shoulders. Cummins moves well for his size, and he shows a good ability to bend and move laterally. He shows strong hands, but he doesn’t always use them consistently on film. When he does use them well he’s able to stun offensive lineman and put them on their heels. Cummins anchors well against the run, and drives his feet to get to the ball carrier. He shows a decent first step off the line, and pursues with a motor that doesn’t quit. He plays with great intensity and intelligence, and shows the ability to drop in coverage from time to time. Cummins spent some time in his junior season playing tight end, so there’s obviously some athletic upside there. That athleticism really shines when playing the option game. His lateral ability allows him to play both players on the option to disrupt plays in the backfield. He shows raw technique on the pass rush, and will have to develop more in his repertoire. Once he joins a collegiate strength program and receives more coaching he could turn in to a strong contributor on the defensive line. Cummins is suited right now to play the 4i technique, but he could play the 5 with more weight. He could also slide inside to tackle in an even front for some sub packages.
Final Verdict:
It’s easy to see why Cummins blew up at the end of the cycle like he did. Long, athletic players with a strong motor are valuable pieces. If Cummins adds the weight he needs and refines his game he could turn in to a multi year starter with all conference ability. His size and athleticism translate well, and give him a good shot to play in the NFL if he reaches his ceiling.
