Utah linebacker Mohamoud Diabate drawing praise from NFL coaches at Shrine Bowl
Utah is being represented at the East-West Shrine Bowl this week by former Utes Tavion Thomas and Mohamoud Diabate.
The latter is apparently turning heads throughout the week of practice leading up to the showcase event. NFL Network’s Michael Yam reported on Tuesday that Diabate’s physical traits are separating him from the pack when it comes to the linebackers.
Diabate made his name in college as a rangy and athletic linebacker, showing off the ability to carry routes in coverage, work the width of the field, and close distances fast. He measured in at the event with 9.5-inch hands and an 80.5-inch wingspan.
Morgan Scalley told Yam that Diabate is “a guy who is just scratching the surface in terms of his NFL potential.”
Coaches on hand for Shrine Bowl prep, according to Yam, seem to agree with that sentiment.
“They actually make the claim that he might be the fastest linebacker here that’s going to be playing on Thursday night.”
A one-and-done player for Utah in 2022, Diabate had the unenviable task of trying to fill the shoes of beloved former Ute linebacker Devin Lloyd. That was always going to be a tough ask. Judged on his own merit, though, Diabate made a positive impact in Salt Lake City. He finished the year with 58 tackles, a team-leading 13.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, and one forced fumble.
He’s looking to hear his named called during April’s NFL Draft. This week has seemingly been a positive step in that direction.
This year’s Shrine Bowl kicks off on Thursday night at 5:30 p.m. PT on NFL Network.
Loving up the defense in Vegas! @ShrineBowl Thursday night on @nflnetwork.@SanJoseStateFB @CoachBrennan CB @Nehemiahs_ @Utah_Football Mo Diabate @BeaverFootball @Jackcolletto. pic.twitter.com/F2bfvOnVn9
— Michael Yam (@Mike_Yam) January 31, 2023