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2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Central Michigan EDGE Michael Heldman

From now until the 2026 NFL Draft, we will scout and create profiles for as many prospects as possible, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and what they can bring to an NFL franchise. These players could be potential top-10 picks, all the way to Day 3 selections, and priority undrafted free agents. Today, a scouting report on Central Michigan EDGE Michael Heldman.

No. 97 Michael Heldman/EDGE Central Michigan 6040/260 (Fifth-year Senior)

Measurements

Player Ht/Wt Hand Size Arm Length Wingspan
Michael Heldman 6040/260 N/A N/A N/A
40-Yard Dash 10-Yard Dash Short Shuttle 3-Cone
N/A N/A N/A N/A
Broad Jump Vertical Bench Press
N/A N/A N/A

– Fluid and agile lateral mover
– Demonstrates great independent hand usage and block shedding
– Good pass rush repertoire that has a strong initial plan
– Able to counter when his initial rush stalls
– Strong inside spin that is his primary go-to move
– Shows good awareness and understanding of where he is on the field
– Rarely rushes past the depth of the quarterback
– High motor player who will chase down plays backside
– Gets his hands into the passing lane if he knows he won’t reach the quarterback
– Shows good flexibility to turn the corner
– Consistent production behind the line of scrimmage

The Bad

– Lacks an explosive first step
– Limited speed-to-power capability
– Not a well-versed athlete, relies more on technique
– Doesn’t possess the strength to consistently hold up against the run
– Struggles to sink his hips and stall offensive linemen against vertical running schemes
– Level of competition is a concern

– 2025 stats: 48 tackles, 16.