This probably isn’t the first time you’ve heard of Harvey Langi this month. The Patriots were very interested in talking to him on BYU’s Pro Day. Whether the rumor that the Patriots wanted to draft him early last year or not is true, they should have an opportunity to do so this year. Langi is a very athletic defender whose best position is inside linebacker. After playing well in that role, BYU for whatever reason decided to play him on the edge in 2016.
Langi moves very well in space and has ideal size for a bigger inside linebacker at 6’2” 250. He put up a 7.00 3-cone, 4.32 5-10-5 shuttle, and a 11.83 long shuttle while looking very good in the drop drills. His athletic profile and size suggests he’s best suited to play at the 2nd level. His 3C and shuttle times compare very well to former Patriots LB Jamie Collins, although the latter is a much more explosive athlete. Langi did not run the 40 at the combine due to a hamstring pull, but did run a 4.62 at his Pro Day.
Vs. Utah 2015
Patriots Fit: Langi would be a long term replacement at ILB as well as being Dont’a Hightower’s backup. Langi is a much better blitzer than he is in coverage, but his speed and athleticism should translate to that area as well. He’d play a Special Teams and backup role to start his career, but could crack the starting lineup by the end of Year 2 right next to Hightower.
Pro Comp: Brandon Spikes. Like Spikes, Langi is best when playing physical and downhill. Langi is better suited to be playing a strong-side linebacker as opposed to a weak-side role. Langi is faster in man coverage than Spikes, who was a superior run defender. Langi is a guy I have going early on Day 3.