2023 NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Report: Braden Fiske, DL, Western Michigan

Braden Fiske is a strong, versatile member of Western Michigan's defensive line. Hula Bowl scout Jake Kernen breaks down Fiske's strengths and weaknesses in this article. — Braden Fiske is a strong, versatile member of Western Michigan’s defensive line. Hula Bowl scout Jake Kernen breaks down Fiske’s strengths and weaknesses in this article.

Player Data

Name, Jersey #	Braden Fiske, #55
School (Code)	MIWE
DOB, Class Yr	1/18/2000, RS Senior
Height, Weight	6033, 282
40 Yd Dash	5.10
Arms, Hands	3112, 0914
Position/Depth	DT/Starter
Honors/Captainship	N/A
Season Viewed (yr)	2021
Games Watched	@ Pitt (week 3), Toledo (week 7), CMU (week 8)
Scout Name / Date	Jake Kernen 8/24/2022

Per Year Stats (Most Recent First):

2021	Started all 12 games. Recorded 42 tackles, 7.5 TFL, and 4 sacks
2020	Started all 6 games. Recorded 23 tackles, 5.5 TFL, and 2.5 sacks
2019	Played in 12 games. Recorded 24 tackles, 2 TFL, and 1 sack
2018	Played in 2 games, on the field for 19 snaps. Redshirted.

Player Summary:

RS Senior. Primarily plays as a 1 tech, but shows some versatility to flex out to 3 and 5 tech. Height/weight align with NFL averages, but below average length. Very thick lower half. Above average quickness off the ball. He uses balance, flexibility, and hand fighting to fight through blockers, but sometimes ends up on the turf from his tendency to play out of control. Heavy hands on impact, but sometimes struggles to jolt blockers on contact due to his length. Tends to thud with his shoulder on contact in an attempt to compensate for length. Above average strength, does a good job of collapsing the pocket when he uses leverage correctly. Impressive football IQ and play recognition. Closing speed is average to slightly below average, but the motor to chase the ball shows up on film. Occasionally overruns the ball carrier when chasing down the LOS. Fiske

Scheme Fit:

Projects to be a 2-gap DL at the next level. Shows the athleticism to play 3T, but could play 5T in an odd front if called upon.

Power Statement:

Fiske has above the line strength and athleticism to be a depth player at the next level, but lack of length is going to cause him issues. Projects as a player that could make a 53 if he can continue to develop his technique to compensate for inadequate length.