Virginia Cavaliers Chico Bennett Jr (DE) talks Wahoo Football 2024 with David Glenn

Chico Bennett Jr. is a highly reactive run defender with the size and instincts to add depth to a defensive line. He’s aligned primarily at 5-tech defensive end for Virginia with experience playing his hand in the dirt (three point) and standing up (two point). Bennett is best against the run where he utilizes his size and length to his advantage. Patient against read-option looks and is quick to identify the ball-carrier following the mesh point. Sure tackler with long arms to wrangle in opponents. Bennett plays a physical brand of football and showcases an ability to stack/shed tackles and guards. Motor constantly runs hot and Bennett’s effort is overwhelmingly evident pursuing from the backside. Good enough athlete to cut off backside cut lanes. Certain teams may ask him to add more mass to serve as a versatile 3/4i/5-tech inside their defense as his mobility/length could give larger, less mobile guards some issues. As a pass rusher, Bennett wins primarily with power and through the chest of opposing tackles. Solid looper on twists and stunts with the length and pop to push linemen on their heels. Does not display a ton of bend, twitch, or explosiveness off the snap, however. Eight sacks in 2022 showcased the potential of Bennett when things are firing on all cylinders, but consistent success against the ACC’s best lineman will be key in finalizing his potential ceiling off the edge.