Henry Anderson

While Stanford lost two tough, versatile defensive linemen in Josh Mauro and Ben Gardner to the NFL, Anderson returns after missing much of last season due to a left knee injury. Despite being limited to just seven games, Anderson still earned honorable mention All-Pac-12 acknowledgement, his second consecutive year with post-season honors. New defensive coordinator Lance Anderson (no relation) hopes his star pupil returns to the form that helped him earned second-team honors in 2012 while racking up 13 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks.

strengths

Despite his imposing build, Anderson is just as likely to be beat opponents with his quickness off the snap as he is power. Anderson varies his pass rush speeds and chops with hands to create space and slip into the backfield. He's more flexible than he looks and uses his long arms to lasso ball-carriers. Anderson shows good functional strength to lock-out and create a pile.

weaknesses

Struggles a bit with leverage as he tires.

he projects better as a five technique defensive end rather than a nose guard, though he has played both roles in stanford's predominately 3-4 package under former defensive coordinator derek mason, who left palo alto to take the head coaching position at vanderbilt.

--Rob Rang (8/15/14)

Played football at Woodward (Ga.) under head coach Mark Miller

Nation’s 27th-best defensive end prospect by Rivals, 42nd by Scout

81 tackles (14 for loss) 9.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries and six pass breakups in 2009

183 tackles and 20.5 sacks during prep career

Led Woodward Region 4AAA runner-up finishes in 2008 and 2009

2009 Atlanta Journal Constitution first team all-state

Three-time South Fulton Neighbor All-South Metro

Two-time all-4AAA Region

Atlanta Falcons Captains Community Award recipient

Played in 2010 Offense-Defense All-American Bowl

Lettered in basketball and track and field

Won state championship and broke school record in shot put

Williams College Book Awards winner.

Born in Atlanta, Ga.,

Full name is Henry Wyatt Anderson

Son of Eric and Ellen Anderson

One older brother, Ian, one younger sister, Eva

Majoring in political science.