Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Lacks the elite first-step explosion that separates good interior rushers from dominant ones, sometimes arriving a half-step late
• Can be inconsistent finishing tackles in space, occasionally struggling to bring down elusive backs in open field situations
• Shows some limitations in lateral range, getting washed out of plays when offensive lines successfully create movement
• Needs to develop more pass-rush moves beyond his primary bull rush, lacking the repertoire to consistently win against quality guards
• At times appears to play too upright, losing leverage advantages and allowing linemen to get under his pads

Scouting Report: Summary

Aaron Graves is a player caught between two identities - his natural pass-rush instincts suggest interior pocket pressure could be his calling card, yet inconsistencies in technique and finishing ability raise questions about whether he can consistently win against NFL-caliber guards. Graves has clearly found success rushing the passer at Iowa, generating consistent pressure up the middle with solid hand placement and leverage, but his limited move arsenal beyond the bull rush creates predictability that professional offensive lines will exploit. His wrestling background translates beautifully to hand fighting and balance, giving him an edge in initial contact, though he sometimes struggles to convert that early advantage into impactful plays.

What makes Graves intriguing is his ability to impact multiple phases while showing clear areas for improvement that aren't necessarily deal-breakers. His run defense displays the kind of gap integrity and strength that defensive coordinators need from interior players, yet he can get washed out when offensive lines create movement, limiting his effectiveness against more athletic blocking schemes. The motor and pursuit that have served him well in college football should translate, but his tackling in space remains suspect and could become more problematic at the next level where skill position players are more elusive.

Graves represents the type of interior defender who could develop into a valuable rotational piece with the right coaching, though his path to becoming an every-down player faces legitimate obstacles. His durability and reliability suggest he can contribute immediately in certain packages, but the technical refinements needed in his pass-rush repertoire and run defense consistency will determine whether he becomes a core contributor or remains a depth piece. The foundation is solid enough to warrant investment, yet realistic enough expectations are required given the developmental timeline his skill set suggests.