- By Josh Clark
- jclark@profootballtechs.com
Over the course of the 2021 season, Ali Fayad brought two consistent traits to Western Michigan’s defense.
Tenacity and standout production.
Fayad’s 12 sacks was fourth among all draft-eligible players in 2021 and first among those who split snaps as an interior lineman.
Fayad, who projects as a weakside edge rusher on passing downs in the NFL, is apparently signing with the Philadelphia Eagles, per On3 Sports.
Fayad “Retweeted” the site’s post on his offer Tuesday.
Through three years in action with Western Michiga, Fayad averaged one sack a game — fourth among all draft-eligible players in 2021. He also posted 17 tackles for a loss – another impressive mark.
In accepting an offer from Philadelphia, Fayad is apparently passing on a rookie camp invite from the New York Jets, which are led by a fellow Lebanese American, Robert Saleh.
Several evaluators gave Fayad a 7th round grade, citing concerns he doesn’t have the size to play up front in a 3-4 scheme – and that he might be better suited in a hybrid role or on passing downs in a 4-3 defense.
But the MAC Defensive Player of the Year has quality traits.
Fayad plays with leverage at the point of attack whether he’s in inside or outside.
He uses his strong hands to brush off linemen and has a quick burst off the line.
The Eagles have stockpiled strength and speed upfront this offseason.
Philadelphia’s defense added Haasan Reddick in free agency and drafted interior lineman Jordan Davis on Thursday.
Now, they’ll apparently add the MAC Defensive Player of the Year, too.