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NFL Draft Film Analysis: Would the Cincinnati Bengals be a Good Fit for T’Vondre Sweat?

Cincinnati holds the 18th overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.

T’Vondre Sweat, an imposing figure standing at 6-4 and weighing 362 pounds, earned the prestigious Outland Trophy in 2023, awarded to the country’s best lineman. In a remarkable achievement for a nose tackle, Sweat secured unanimous first-team All-American honors and was honored with the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year Award. This exceptional performance came as a surprise, considering his preseason listing as a second-team All-Big 12 player.

Sweat’s standout qualities include his immovability against double teams and combo blocks, a crucial skill for success as a nose tackle. Despite facing multiple blockers, he excels in freeing up linebackers and making plays. Unlike many 350+ pound defensive tackles, Sweat possesses remarkable mobility, displaying agility off the ball and effective gap control.

His strength and ability to reset the line of scrimmage translate into success as a pass rusher, where he can apply pressure and forcefully push opponents. Sweat’s pass-rushing skills include a variety of violent moves, counter moves, and effective reading of opposing offensive linemen.

While Sweat’s pad level may occasionally rise, an aspect to address at the NFL level, and he may need refinement in hand techniques, his overall skill set makes him a formidable force. Reports of motivation concerns surfaced before the 2023 season, emphasizing the importance of showcasing commitment and weight management at the NFL Combine.

In summary, Sweat emerges as a complete package at nose tackle, excelling in run defense due to his ability to handle double teams and disrupt offensive game plans. His proficiency in reading and reacting to opponents makes him a valuable asset. As a surprising pass rusher, Sweat has the potential to contribute more than expected from a nose tackle, making him a force multiplier. Best suited for an odd front scheme, Sweat’s versatility allows him to two-gap, disrupt plays, and contribute to slants and stunts on base downs.