Brandon Hoyte came out of War Memorial HS (Sayreville, NJ), where he was named New Jersey defensive player of the year by the Neward Star-Ledger. After redshirting and playing a reserve role in his first two seasons, he took over for an injured player his third year. From then on he has consistently been on of Notre Dame's top tacklers and team leaders. He was co-captain of the team with Brady Quinn in his final season.
Hoyte is on the small side for an NFL caliber "mike" backer, and will probably have to make the transition to "will" backer. He is a good tackler for a player his size, who really leans into his tackles and finishes them. He is a physical player and doesn't shy away from contact, sticking his nose in the pile and working against interior lineman. His main strength is penetrating into the backfield against both the run and the pass. He has a knack for knowing which gap will open up and flying though it to get the running back or the quarterback. He has some of the best instincts of any linebacker on the collegiate level. He needs improvement in pass coverage however. If he can improve his footwork and overall knowledge of different aspects of the passing game, that will allow his instincts to take over. He is a natural leader and is respected by all his teammates.
NFL Draft Outlook
Hoyte has produced consistently at a high level the past three years, and that will help him greatly on draft day. The main negatives on Brandon will be his lack of ideal size and pass coverage abilities. If he can show some improvement in his footwork and general coverage abilities, he could be a third or fourth round selection.
2008 Draft Review
