After a freshman season in which he had little impact, Long developed into a consistent performer for the Cavs. He finished his sophomore season with 46 tackles, ten for loss, and two sacks. Last year as a junior, he had 57 tackles, 12 for loss, and four sacks on the year. Long had a dominant senior season, earning unanimous All America honors after posting 75 tackles, 19 for loss, and 14 sacks on the season.
Long is a solid all around defensive end. He is physical, strong, and tough which makes him a force against the run. He can hold his ground at the point of attack, and he does not give up on plays. As a pass rusher, he makes plays because of his combination of strength and athleticism. He is quick off the snap, uses his hands well, and changes direction without hesitation. Long has the potential to play in a 3-4 or 4-3 defense.
Long does not possess the amazing athleticism or speed off the edge to make scouts drool. Other than that, it is tough to pick apart his game.
Chris Long comes from a football family, as his father Howie played for the Raiders for years. He has the talent and bloodlines to be a quality NFL performer. He may never blow you away with his physical traits, but he is a football player that gets the job done every time he puts the uniform on.