Film Don't Lie | CJ May
Notre Dame has a type on the defensive line.
Under the previous staff they took a lot of exceptions when it came to size and arm length. That’s not the case anymore and they continued that trend with the addition of 2025 edge CJ May.
With an 80-inch wingspan, a 31 inch vertical, and over a 10 foot broad jump, May checks the boxes with his physical traits as someone with the tools to develop into an NFL defensive end.
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 225
Projected Position: Vyper
ISD Grade: 90 (4-star)
National Average Grade: 89.5 (4-star)
What he does best:
He flashes good twitch off the ball and shows the ability to punch and separate against the run.
May can win as a pass rusher with athleticism and has the flexibility to run the hoop to the quarterback.
His hand-eye coordination is impressive. He gets his hands on the football a good amount and does a nice job of attacking the quarterback’s throwing hand.
He’s filled out more as a junior and is stronger. May does a great job here being sudden off the ball and winning back inside with a hump move.
What he needs to improve:
Calling his twitch inconsistent would be accurate. He’s not always firing off the ball and though he shows good hustle, he doesn’t always play fast.
He has a long way to go to develop as a defensive linemen with hand placement, footwork, and overall technique. He’s way more of an athlete than defensive end right now and is going to need time to learn the position.
What’s his ceiling?
May has tools that are similar to former Notre Dame edge Julian Okwara and with proper development, he could end up being that type of player one day for the Irish.
He has a long way to go to get there, but that long term potential is why Notre Dame is excited to take his commitment and why he has offers from programs like Auburn, Clemson, Georgia, Penn State, and many others.
I’m interested to see his growth on the field the rest of his junior season. He could end up being a big riser in the rankings before the recruiting process is completed.
Who he could be:
Former Notre Dame edge Julian Okwara
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