2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: CJ Goetz, LB, Wisconsin

Player Data
Name, Jersey # | CJ Goetz, #98 |
School (Code) | WIUN |
DOB, Class Yr | Gr. Sr. |
Height, Weight | 6030, 235 |
40 Yd Dash | 4.79e |
Position/Depth | OLB / 1st |
Honors/Captainship | N/A |
Season Viewed (yr) | 2022 |
Games Watched | OHST, NEUN, MIST |
Scout Name / Date | Bryan Ault / 7-26-2023 |
Per Year Stats (Most Recent First)
2022 | 13 GP, 62 T, 29 Solo, 33 AST, 2 Sacks |
2021 | 13 GP, 17 T, 8 Solo, 9 AST, 2 Sacks |
2020 | 6 GP, 10 T, 6 Solo, 4 AST, 1 Sack |
2019 | 14 GP |
Player Summary:
Senior. Starts at OLB. Big and strong with good size; thick upper and lower body strength with good bulk especially in his legs and chest. Built more like a DE than a LB and has a decent size-speed combination. Is an average pass rusher but a great run defender who is consistently around the ball. V. the run, he is good. Displays excellent instincts – reads and reacts to the ball well and is quick to diagnose on the move. Does a great job of getting around blocks on the corner and wrapping up ball carriers. Aggressively takes on double-team blocks, plays with good leverage and does not break contain in pursuit. Has great range and a high motor – is constantly pursuing and working to ball carriers, and has great on-field awareness. Cleans up tackles and works to the whistle. More of a wrap-up tackler rather than a heavy hitter. Can drop back, play in pass coverage and deflect passes; dropped an interception in one of the games viewed. As a pass rusher, he is average. Can apply pressure and occupy gaps to free up other rushers, but struggles to shed and disengage blocks v. bigger OTs. Would like to see him get around the corner quicker instead of getting neutralized one-on-one too easily. Isn’t a particularly explosive player who shows dynamic edge speed. Size and strength v. run will be his most valuable assets at the next level.
Scheme Fit:
OLB in 3-4
Power Statement:
CJ is a strong run defender who shows good instincts, motor and range to add value to an NFL team. I would like to see him develop as a pass rusher during his senior season. Improving in that area would boost his draft stock.