Akiem Hicks

Hicks enrolled at Sacramento City College in 2007 out of high school. He saw action in 10 games as a true freshman in 2007, recording 32 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, one interception, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. Hicks started nine games in 2008 as a sophomore, finishing with 33 tackles, 7.0 tackles for loss and one pass break-up. After the 2008 season, he was considered one of the top JUCO recruits, choosing LSU over Oregon, Arizona and Tennessee. However, he never played for the Tigers and sat out the 2009 season because of some recruiting controversy, choosing instead to transfer to Regina (Canada). Hicks started all nine games in 2010 as a junior (9 gp/9 st), recording 24 tackles, 5.0 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, one pass break-up and two forced fumbles, earning Canada West All-Star honors. He started all eight games in 2011 as a senior (8 gp/8 st), finishing with a team-best 42 tackles, 8.0 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, three pass break-ups and two forced fumbles, earning First Team All-Conference honors. Hicks was one of the prized-recruits in the 2009 class out of the JUCO ranks, but was forced to head North to play in Canada because of some recruiting issues by LSU?s coaching staff. He carries some effort and work ethic questions and there are concerns about whether or not he will put in the time to maximize his ability. Hicks is a mammoth player with light feet and impressive length, but is very raw with limited playing experience ? a mid-to-late round draft pick who needs extensive work, but the potential is tough to ignore as he grades as one of the better developmental linemen in this class.

positives

Physically imposing frame with elite measureables ... long arms (35 inches) and a huge wingspan (84 inches). Surprising athletic ability for a player his size with rare movement skills. Explosive hitter and looks to wrap and drive the ballcarrier into ground ... led the team in tackles and sacks as a senior. Has a strong build with raw power to redirect blockers and overwhelm at the point of attack. Offers versatility with experience playing at defensive end and defensive tackle and shows the overall skill-set to line up in various formations ... oozes with upside and potential.

negatives

Extremely raw with below average playing experience against top competition ... two seasons at the Community College level and two years playing at a University in Canada. Plays too upright, allowing for his pad level to rise and struggles to naturally bend ... tough for a player his height and frame to use consistent leverage. Tight athlete with stiff ankles ... not overly fluid and initial explosion is nothing special. Needs a lot of technique work with his hands and footwork, showing very unpolished fundamentals. Needs to play with a consistent motor through the whistle, finishing plays with the same effort. Has questionable practice habits and football IQ with some character concerns as well.