Seth Benson has a lot of raw tools, but overall looks like he might be just a step slow to be a star defender. That being said, Benson should be a strong starter at the next level and can continue to get better. He’s very smart and savvy, but needs to work on making his wrap up tackling better before we can take him as a serious defender.

HT: 6002
WT: 229
Year: Super Redshirt Junior
High School: Washington (Sioux Falls, SD)
Rating: 2 star (0.7953)

Seth Benson scouting notes

Pros:

• Very stout upper body. 
• Pursuit angles are typically good, but sometimes will under pursue the play and miss a tackle. Excellent closing speed. 
• Uses his hands well to disrupt passing lanes.
• Overall does a good job of recognizing plays. 
• Understands how concepts work. Very smart player. 
• Shows good instincts but can get wrapped up in his assignment and struggles with the balance between the two. 

Cons:

• More quick than fast. Has serious burst to disrupt the play. Good overall athleticism, it’s just not natural. Has to put a lot of effort in to move. 
• Lateral quickness is a little slow, looks a little heavy footed. 
• Struggles still to work off of blocks to be a run defender. 
• Serious hit power, but doesn’t like to wrap up. Has to be willing to wrap up! Misses tackles because of his lack of wrap up. 
• Not a great blitzer. Struggles to hit his gap before being engaged. 
• Man coverage is adequate but not great. Gets a little too grabby and struggles to keep up with his assignment. 
• Zone coverage is adequate, but not great especially when working into the flats. Is no match against a slot receiver.