DJ Lundy, LB, Florida State
Size:
Height: 6’0” (v) | Weight: 237 lbs (v)
Accomplishments:
All-ACC Honorable Mention (2023)
“DJ Lundy is an athletic and compact linebacker with the instincts and versatility to challenge for snaps in multiple phases of the game.”
Strengths:
Versatile playmaker
Relentless run defender
Instincts
Strength
Concerns:
Size
Length
Hips
Film Analysis:
DJ Lundy is an athletic and compact linebacker with the instincts and versatility to challenge for snaps in multiple phases of the game. Primarily aligned in the middle of the Florida State defense, but he has snaps as a 5-tech defensive end and nickel corner. He was also the only player nationally in 2023 and the first ACC player since 2006 with an interception and offensive touchdown in the same game.
Lundy is a joy to watch in the run game. Displays a hunger for contact and the ability to sniff our run concepts quickly at the line of scrimmage. Does not have the verticality to see over the line of scrimmage, making his instincts that much more appreciable when working from depth. Attacks alleys and will often beat ball-carriers to the spot. Lundy’s background as a state champion wrestler is evident when working downhill. Arrives at contact with a low pad level and is always looking to knock opponents backward. Has good hands and does a nice job of stacking/shedding larger linemen. Good, sound tackler that uses his natural leverage to his advantage. Not a dynamic athlete to serve as a true sideline-to-sideline defender, but hustles his tail off to make plays. Constantly sticks his face in the mud on short down and distances and is the type of player that can rally a defense due to his motor and physicality.
In coverage, Lundy showcases good instincts to identify passing concepts. Works to his correct depth in zone and has the reactive athleticism to make plays on the football (1 INT and 7 PBUs through 2023). Lack of size does show up against larger, more fluid pass-catchers over the middle of the field. Hips are tight when asked to flip and run but this is an area that can be improved on moving forward. Does not have a ton of experience in space but is best as a zone defender where his ability to read and react showcases well.
Concerns remain about Lundy’s overall size and length to live as a second-level defender at the next level. Lundy’s ability as a run defender can pave the way for snaps despite his lack of stature, but it could limit his snaps on passing downs or for teams that value hybrid types of defenders.
Overall, Lundy projects as an early-down defender with the effort and downhill instincts that showcase a throwback skill set at the position. His role may be limited early in his career, but Lundy should make an immediate impact on special teams—a role that often paves the way for defensive snaps.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Scheme Specific Contributor
Written by: Ryan Fowler
