2020 Raiders Draft Prospect Profile

Name: Derrek Tuskza

Position: Defensive End

School: North Dakota State University

Height: 6’4”

Weight: 250 pounds

Stats

133 tackles, 42 TFL, 29.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles

Pass Rush

First, his push/pull technique surprises observers. He’s not exceptionally long-limbed or twitchy. Yet, Tuszka works this move with swiftness and ambidextrous ability. Next, Tuszka will use the momentum of the blocker, backpedaling upfield. Once he detaches, the tackles leave the quarterback wide open. This skill is more based on intelligence, rather than pure skill. Despite tipping the scales at 251 pounds, his bullrush works with leverage and measured strides. What enhances Tuskza’s repertoire is the foundation to learn more, adding a different wrinkle along the way. Plus, you cannot quantify effort.

Speed

At best, marginal. Tuszka brings a straightlinish approach with a little wiggle. Yet, to his credit, he times the snap well and gets a jump on blockers. His burst does not seem notable, except for the ability to close on the ball. Whether it’s timing, proximity, or instinct, Tuszka excels around the line of scrimmage. In such close quarters, any limitations vanish with the lack of actual distance.

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Tackling

With a strong grip and excellent wrap, Tuskza secures the stop. He drives the target to the ground without dragging them. As a result, few, if any, will break away or generate any bonus yardage. More importantly, the quickness of the approach will never show up in box scores or stat sheets. Yet, he swarms and finishes. During his career in Fargo, Tuzka improved his dexterity, forcing a fumble in each of his final three years. In the open field, he will sellout, throwing his body into the play.

Team Fit

Arden Key, if you are honest, is far more talented than Tuszka, point-blank. Yet, with no production, he’s wasting that talent. Meanwhile, Tuszka personifies the Gruden Grinder model. He fights during every snap, through blocking, misdirection and chips from backs. Tuskza’s approach is not aesthetically pleasing. Nothing pleasant, just absolute results.

Why Tuszka?

From snap to whistle, Tuszka will bless the Raiders with nonstop motion. He never relents on a play, regardless of location. Tuszka doesn’t need to start to contribute. In subpackages and special will serve as his entrance to the team. For a Day Three/UDFA selection, Tuszka presents the Raiders with value. While not counted on to thrive in a starting spot, Tuszka will see the field and make an impact.