Height: 6-1
Weight: 235
Class: Senior
2016 stats: 83 tackles (3 for loss), 3 fumble recoveries, 1 interception, 4 pass breakups, 3 quarterback hurries
2017 stats: 97 tackles (6 for loss), 2.5 sacks, 2 interceptions, 1 touchdown
Overview
Manase Hungalu’s development during his time with Oregon State is what college athletics is all about. He went from a late-season scout-teamer in 2015, to defensive standout in 2016 and finally was a team captain in 2017. Hungalu was the leader of Oregon State’s but defense did not get invited to the NFL combine. Many feel he is a bit undersized to be an NFL inside linebacker and lacks elite athleticism to make up for his stature. Whatever, Hungalu lacks in size or natural talent though he makes up for with his instincts, work-ethic and overall relentlessness.
While Hungalu’s name hasn’t been seen on many mock NFL drafts according to the News Tribune’s Gregg Bell, the Seattle Seahawks scheduled a workout with the Oregon State standout. Gregg Bell projects Hungalu will go undrafted, but feels he could work his way into a surprise day three draft pick or ultimately become a hidden gem as an undrafted free agent following the draft.
Either way, Hungalu was a tackling machine during his final two seasons in Corvallis and will be sorely missed. Hungalu’s 180 tackles as a junior/senior were huge for the Beaver defense and he even managed a 20-tackle game versus Cal. While it is unlikely that Manase Hungalu will hear his name in the 2018 NFL draft; he will almost assuredly sign with an NFL team as an undrafted free agent soon afterwards. And while earning an NFL contract as an UDFA is not easy by any means, I wouldn’t bet against Hungalu.
Pro-Day Stats
- 4.69 40-yard dash
- 21 reps on the bench press
- 32.5 inch vertical jump
Highlights
2017
2016