Cameron Ball is a 6’4, 310-pound defensive lineman from the University of Arkansas. He is from Atlanta, Georgia, and attended Tri-Cities High School. He spent all 5 years of college career at Arkansas, so he is an experienced football player. He did miss one game against Auburn this past year with an undisclosed injury. Ball was also on the SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll in 2024.
Ball has shown to be a decent run defender. He has a good frame and some athleticism to his game, as he is sometimes able to run down the ball carrier on some plays, even at his size. Ball is also quick off the ball. Ball does a good job of not being moved at the line of scrimmage and is able to extend his arm against offensive linemen while maintaining gap integrity. This also helps him keep an eye on the ball and go make a play on it. Maintaining his gap integrity and taking on double teams from offensive linemen will also prove effective at the next level because if he is not able to go make a play, he can occupy them long enough for his linebackers to go make a play. Ball also has a decent pass-rush ability. His hand placement is not ideal, but he is very active with them and puts in a lot of effort when rushing the passer.
Ball needs to work on his tackling. He will either trip up the guys or wrap up opponents long enough for his teammates to come help. Ball also needs to refine his pass-rush skills. When he rushes the passer, he has active hands but lacks a plan. The only move he has is the swim move, which can leave him exposed when offensive linemen strike him and cause him to be unbalanced. He is also not a 3-down player. He can play on first and second down, but then will need to get subbed out. At the next level, he might need to have a limited snap count.
Overall, Ball is a high motor defensive lineman that holds his own in the run game and can improve his pass rush skills.
Scheme Fit: 4-3 or 4-2-5
I believe Ball would be the most productive playing the 3-tech at the next level. Good team fits would be the Bengals, Bills, and Cowboys
Projection: Backup/Role Player
Ball is a rotational player who can be subbed in on certain down and distances.
NFL Player Comp: David Onyemata
They have similar builds and are both productive at stopping the run.
Grade/Round Projection: 4, Round 3-5 Pick
I initially graded him at 4.3 but rounded it down to a 4. I believe Ball is a late Day 2 or an early Day 3 pick.
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