Via 247Sports.com

Dee Winters

Linebacker

TCU Horned Frogs

6’1, 230 pounds

Strengths:

Although now playing linebacker, Winter had experience previously playing as a defensive back. That experience shows up when he plays in coverage as he is extremely instinctive being able to read quarterbacks eyes, and uses his closing speed to get to where the ball is intended to go and make a play. This led to Winters having three interceptions and four pass breakups over his career. While he did allow 91 completions he limited those to 1,035 yards and allowed only four touchdowns. When it comes to run defending he has the speed to shoot gaps and adds to this with how well he times the snap to get into the backfield. Winters ended up with 59 pressures, 14 sacks, and 129 run stops.

Weaknesses:

While he times the snaps well most of the time, he can be hesitant frequently as well which leads to him having a harder time getting off blocks. His tackling can also be improved as he relies more on tackling low which leads to drag tackles at times. This is because Winters comes in too quickly at times leading to his angles being off. 

Round Grade: Round Five

Winters is a great athlete with massive range and versatility. He needs to clean up his discipline as a tackler though at the NFL level. Still, his range and coverage ability will make him a valuable starter down the line. To start he should be used on a rotational basis and special teams and down the line see more starting snaps.