UCF's Malachi Lawrence dominated the NFL combine, showcasing elite athleticism and pass-rush skills, solidifying his projected second-round draft status.
Malachi Lawrence put NFL scouts on notice during the NFL scouting combine with his dominant performance on Thursday, which led to a high mock draft position for the former Knight.
NFL Draft Files posted its analysis on Lawrence on X, comparing him to Arizona Cardinals linebacker Josh Sweat and categorizing him as a 3-Down Finesse Rusher.
"33 5/8" arms equal great length," the post said. "Hand usage is powerful and refined; among the best we've seen in recent years. Deep pass rush bag that includes an elite double swipe, chop variations, inside swim and rip. Has a plan of attack before every true pass rush rep; combos and counter moves galore. Physical player who flashes a solid anchor when setting the edge. Elite athletic tester; 4.52 40-yard dash, 40" vert, 10'10" broad."
Lawrence's scores placed him second amongst all defensive linemen. NFL Draft Files' analysis of the UCF alum aligns with what he wants to bring to the defense of the team drafting him.
"My strengths are pass rushing," Lawrence said during his media availability. "My pass rush ability, just getting to the quarterback, beating the tackle one-on-one, but also finishing the sacks as well. And then I'd say the thing that I can bring that people probably don't expect is just my run defense, like when I set the edge, I feel like I set a pretty good edge. I just need to work on my technique and just refine that."
During his time at the scouting combine, the 6-foot-4 EDGE met with several teams: the Dallas Cowboys, Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Lawrence said his formal meeting with the Cowboys went well, and it would be an honor to play for them because he grew up watching Demarcus Lawrence.
"I used to [think] we both got the same last name," Lawrence said. "So just watching him play for them would mean a lot. Just a lot of legends that came through the Cowboys. Michael [Irvin], man, like it's a lot to them.
If NFL Draft Files' mock draft position remains true, Lawrence will be the fifth UCF Knight drafted in the second round. He'd join Travis Fisher (2002), Torell Troup (2010), Trysten Hill (2019) and RJ Harvey (2025).
Lawrence's stellar combine performance has guided him one step closer to becoming the next Knight in the NFL.
The UCF alum will wait for his name to be called next month when the 2026 NFL Draft takes place in Pittsburgh, PA., from April 23-25.
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