Derick Hall drafted No. 37 overall to the Seattle Seahawks
Derick Hall has been drafted by the Seattle Seahawks at No. 37 overall.
Hall is the first edge/outside linebacker from Auburn in the draft since Carl Lawson in the 2017 NFL Draft. Lawson has had a solid NFL career since entering the league. Dee Ford is another notable edge player from Auburn who was drafted in recent years.
With the edge position becoming more important in the pros and in college football, Hall being drafted early couldn’t hurt Auburn in the recruiting world. The value for this position has gone up due to more pass-heavy schemes in all of football.
Hall had a prolific career at Auburn and will now have his shot on the next level.
Hall at Auburn
Hall, a former 4-star recruit from Gulfport, Miss., played in the very first game he put on an Auburn uniform. His first playing action came against Oregon in 2019. He did not record any stats in that game. He went on to have 13 tackles during his freshman season.
Hall became a full-time starter in 2020 as a sophomore. He remained a starter throughout the rest of his Auburn career.
Hall recorded 146 tackles, 29.5 tackles for loss, 19.5 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 interception.
During his senior season, Hall was recognized by his work in the community. He won the Solomon Community Service Award, and is currently a semifinalist for the Jason Witten Man of the Year Award. He also finished as a first team All-SEC selection.
Hall’s NFL capability
Hall’s numbers while at Auburn are impressive, but just like transitioning from high school to college, the numbers are irrelevant when moving up to pro level football.
First of all, does Hall have the skillset to be a pass rush specialist? No. He can, however, be an asset as a pass rusher. His true value comes in setting the edge. Hall was exceptional throughout his career at creating separation and holding his ground on the edge.
Hall’s effort level and motor are as good as any prospect in the draft. Where he lacks in true talent as a versatile edge, this will pick up some slack.
Hall has built his body into an edge-setting machine during his time at Auburn. He will be suited to do so for multiple years in the NFL. His value relates closely to former Auburn Tiger Carl Lawson.
