Locked On NFL Draft - Daily Podcast On The NFL Draft, College Football & The NFL · Locked On Podcast Network, Damian Parson, Keith Sanchez

LIMITATIONS: Cashius Howell Not an NFL Draft First-Round Prospect?

·22 min·2 clips

Why does Damian Parson believe Texas A&M's elite pass rusher Cassius Howell isn't a first-round NFL draft pick?

This episode analyzes Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell's NFL draft prospects, hosted by NFL Draft analyst Damian Parson. Parson evaluates Howell's combine performance and game film to determine his potential draft stock. The central question is whether Howell's pass-rush talent outweighs his perceived physical limitations. Parson notes Howell measured at 6'2.5" and 253 pounds at the combine with a 4.59-second 40-yard dash. His arm length of 30.25 inches is cited as historically short for an edge rusher at the event. According to PFF, Howell recorded 12 sacks, 2 QB hits, and 27 hurries during his final college season. Eight of his 12 sacks came in just three games against Utah State, Mississippi State, and LSU. Parson highlights games against Texas and Miami where Howell had zero sacks and minimal pressures. He specifically points out matchups where tackles like Trevor Goosby and Markel Bell effectively neutralized Howell. A key insight is Parson's view that Howell projects best as a 3-4 outside linebacker primarily for third-down pass-rush situations. He praises Howell's first-step quickness, dip-and-bend ability, and use of a fake punch move to set up tackles. The analyst expresses major concern over Howell's ability to shed blocks and hold the point of attack in run defense. Parson concludes that Howell's production was "bulk based" and clustered against lesser competition, raising questions about his consistency. Parson ultimately gives Howell a grade in the 7.8-7.9 range, which translates to an early second-round pick on his scale. He offers player comparisons like Yannick Ngakoue and mentions historical draft prospects with similar arm-length measurements, such as Tyree Johnson and Sutton Smith. The host suggests Howell's ideal fit might be in a defensive front with large linemen who can absorb blocks, similar to old New England Patriots schemes. The tone is analytical and opinionated, blending film study with measurable data in a conversational, solo-commentary style. This episode is ideal for NFL draft enthusiasts, Texas A&M fans, and listeners interested in detailed prospect scouting beyond highlight reels. Those seeking broad NFL news or who are skeptical of analytical draft breakdowns may find it too niche.

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