Will Gholston: Logan Hall is an 'even more athletic J.J. Watt in his prime'

First-year defensive end Logan Hall has gotten a lot of comparisons to Will Gholston since being drafted to the Buccaneers this offseason. Although it’s certainly flattering to the Tampa Bay veteran, he believes the rookie out of Houston has potential to be even better.

In a recent podcast interview, Gholston said that Hall reminds him of five-time Pro Bowler and three-time Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt. Not only that, but he decided to go even further in his praise of his new teammate.

“I can give you my opinion on Hall. He is that guy,” Gholston said. “Logan is like that. His versatility, I think he can play inside and out. I think he can play my position [and Ndamukong] Suh’s position. His explosiveness and how well he moves, to be that big, I was shocked. Because I don’t necessarily see guys my size and stature all the time. He’s the same size as me, but he moves.

“…I haven’t seen him in pads. I don’t know why I’m so excited about him, but man, I see the dog in him. You really see the dog with the pads, but I see the dog. I see the fight. He is so big and slippery. He’s an even more athletic J.J. Watt in his prime.”

Hall had a big year this past season with the Cougars, who ultimately finished with a 12-2 record. He recorded 47 tackles (13 for loss) and tied for the team-high six sacks. That led Tampa Bay to take him with its first pick, which happened to be the No. 33 overall selection.

Now with OTAs underway, Will Gholston has gotten a chance to see Logan Hall play in person. He has so far been blown away, which is what led to the lofty comparison. That doesn’t, however, mean he is going easy on the rookie. Gholston said he still has goals for Hall, including reach six sacks this season.

Considering JJ Watt had 5.5 sacks as a rookie, that number seems on par with his analysis.

“Dang, this is some big compliments I’m giving out,” Gholston said. “I just want everybody to know that guy is like that. I believe he is. Hopefully he don’t watch it because when I see him, I’m never going to give him this credit in person. Not yet.”