High School and College Career

Jer’Zhan Newton was a 3-star recruit from Clearwater Central Catholic High School before playing at the University of Illinois.

As a freshman in 2020, Newton played in 8 games for the Fighting Illini, amassing a total of 329 snaps. He managed to record 15 tackles with 11 assisted tackles. He also proved to be an effective pass rusher, adding 6 total pressures to his record, which included 5 QB hurries, no QB hits, and one sack.

Newton’s sophomore year in 2021 saw him playing in 12 games for the Fighting Illini and taking part in 611 snaps. He continued to improve his game and showcased his skills, recording 27 tackles and 17 assists. As a pass rusher, he chalked up an impressive 15 total pressures, 9 QB hurries, 3 QB hits, and 3 sacks throughout the year.

In 2022, as a junior player, Newton’s performance on the field continued to impress. He played in all 12 games, contributing on 666 snaps, and recording 35 tackles and 15 assisted tackles. He also produced 54 total pressures, which included 32 QB hurries, 18 QB hits, and 4 sacks, making him a formidable force on the field.

Jer’Zhan Newton Scouting Report Introduction

Jer’Zhan Newton is a talented athlete who brings a multitude of skills to the football field. His ability to set the edge in the run game is particularly noteworthy. With his stout build and strong core, he is able to hold his ground against opposing players and create space for his team. Additionally, his powerful arms allow him to shed blockers and make plays that prevent the opposing team from gaining yardage.

One of the most impressive things about Jer’Zhan Newton is his readiness for the physicality of the NFL. With his muscular build and strong limbs, he is equipped to play as a three-down player right away. This is particularly important in a league where physicality is key to success.

In addition to his strength, Jer’Zhan Newton has excellent footwork that enables him to fill holes inside and stop opposing players in their tracks. He is also able to recover quickly from cut blocks or falling on his way to make a tackle.

Perhaps most impressive is Jer’Zhan Newton’s motor. He never gives up and is always quick to locate the ball and make plays against the run. This is a valuable quality in a player and sets Jer’Zhan apart from many of his peers.

Strengths

Jer’Zhan Newton has great upper-body strength that allows him to win through sheer power. Newton is a force to be reckoned with on the field, as he has the ability to use his physicality to his advantage and overpower opponents.

Moreover, Newton’s technique is exemplary when it comes to containing the run game. He has the ability to drop his weight and anchor himself into a stable position, which prevents opponents from gaining leverage and advancing down the field. Additionally, he has a knack for occupying double teams, which is a valuable asset for any defense.

Another aspect that makes Newton stand out from other players is his coordination and smooth movement skills. He can navigate the field with ease and finesse, which allows him to make quick decisions and adjust to changing situations on the field.

Newton’s work ethic is commendable. He is a high-effort rusher who never gives up before the whistle blows. Even after the play has ended, he is relentless in his pursuit of victory, as he continues fighting off blocks and battling to reach the ball. This level of dedication ensures that he always gives his best and puts in the hard work necessary to succeed.

Jer’Zhan Newton is a well-rounded football player whose unique set of skills makes him an asset to any team. With his power, technique, coordination, and work ethic, he is a force to be reckoned with on the field, and he has the potential to achieve great success in his career.

Weaknesses

Newton has struggled in consistently shedding blocks and making plays in the hole. This weakness has likely contributed to missed opportunities for tackles and allowing opposing ball carriers to gain yardage. A potential explanation for this issue could be a need for hand placement and technique improvement. With proper adjustments, Newton could potentially improve his tackling success rate and prevent opposing players from breaking through the line of scrimmage.

Furthermore, it has been noted that Newton’s spin move appears to be slow and mechanical. Gaining increased speed and fluidity in executing this move could open up more opportunities for him to disrupt plays. Additionally, a lack of agility and ability to react quickly to cut blocks has left Newton vulnerable to this type of tactic, which has been used frequently against him.

Jer’Zhan Newton is our 88th prospect on our draft big board.