Strengths

• Intelligent player who can play "MIKE" linebacker despite his lack of size because of his instincts and ability to find the ball in traffic.
• An aggressive run defender, filling run lanes hard, and won't shy from contact. Plays with violence to fight off blocks, flashing a physical nature. An intense, powerful hitter who willingly gives up his body.
• A bit stiff but makes the clean open-field tackle. Good effort in pursuit.

Weaknesses

• Doesn't have enough speed, power or bulk to fit any LB position perfectly in the NFL.
• Lacks the strength to blow up fullbacks and bulk/length to prevent getting engulfed by better linemen at the second level.
• Loses size battle to many tight ends and is easily pushed away on out routes.
• Not a sudden or quick-twitch athlete. Will never be the strongest player on the field and can struggle to shed from different angles.
• Must work on using violent hands and defeating cut blocks. Also needs to build a variety of pass-rush moves.

James Houston IV percentiles vs other Outside Linebacker's (NFL Combine historically - higher value represents better perfomance)