2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Max Michel, OLB, Buffalo

Max Michel is a well-seasoned pass rusher and good tackler in Buffalo’s defense. Hula Bowl scout Tyler Moore breaks him down as an NFL Prospect in his report.

Player Data

Name, Jersey #	Max Michel #6
School (Code)	University of Buffalo (NYBU)
Class Yr	rSR
Height, Weight	6015, 235
40 Yd Dash	4.68
Position/Depth	OLB 1
Honors/Captainship	2022 and 2023 Wuerffel Trophy Watch List, 2-time Allstate AFCA Good Works Team Nominee
Season Viewed (yr)	2023
Games Watched	WIUN, OHTO, MICE
Scout Name / Date	Tyler Moore, 11/10/2023

Per Year Stats (Most Recent First)

2023	8 GP, 8 GS, 36 TOT, 7 TFL, 4 Sacks, 4 FF
2022	10 GP, 10 GS, 16 TOT, 1.5 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 FF
2021	8 GP, 8 GS, 36 TOT, 6.5 TFL, 4 Sacks, 1 FF
2020	7 GP, 1 GS, 17 TOT, 4 TFL, 2.5 Sacks
2019	13 GP, 14 TOT, 1 Sack

Player Summary:

A multiyear starter who has played both linebacker and defensive end in a primarily 3-4 defense. An undersized player who has a full frame and muscular build who plays with some nastiness to his game.

Has a solid get-off and solid upfield rush that maintains the pocket and does not open a running lane. Has a strong first punch at the POA and overall solid play strength as he is able to handle bigger-bodied blockers. Uses a variety of pass rush moves including, bull rush, swipes, and rip series to win in a variety of ways. Has a good ability to disengage from blocks and make tackles on runners. Is a good tackler who shows power and technique to limit YAC. Has a high motor and will pursue a play until the whistle is blown, showing a high effort and good competitive toughness.

Has adequate short area burst and lacks top-end speed. Is undersized, especially for a defensive end, and will need to convert back to LB. He has experience as a linebacker yet has not played the position in three seasons, having only one start. Struggles to get depth in drops into coverage in the few occasions he had this season.

Scheme Fit:

Will have to transition to a WOLB with his size yet provides a solid pass rush where he can continue to provide help in the box. Would need to learn how to drop into coverage to better fill in the role as a linebacker.

Power Statement:

An undersized linebacker who is a playmaker who plays with physicality, competitive toughness, and effort that wins using a variety of pass rush moves, his ability to get off blockers and his high motor to play to the whistle and limit what the backfield has the ability to achieve.