After four seasons with the Bryant Bulldogs, Daly entered the FBS level with the FIU Panthers. There was little, if any, drop off in his level of play, becoming a staple in the Panthers defense as a zero-technique defensive lineman, fitting well in the 3-4 scheme.
Daly became one of the most reliable defensive players under coordinator Jovan Dewitt. Daly's stature was something the Panthers lacked in Dewitt's first year with the program.
In 2023, Daly had 25 total tackles, 1.5 sacks and three tackles for a loss. Here's what else to know about the South Glastonbury native as we get closer to the 2024 NFL Draft.
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Background
Measurements: 6'5", 315 pounds
With former defensive lineman Davon Strickland graduating, the Panthers brought in Daly from the FCS level. Through four seasons with Bryant, Daly ended his time in Rhode Island with 104 total tackles six sacks and 23 tackles for loss.
This season, Daly was the third leading tackler at FIU and fourth on the team in sacks. Daly also made it onto the Phil Steele Preseason All-Conference USA Third Team for 2023. At the FCS level, Daly was named All NEC-First team in the 2020, 2021 and 2022 seasons.
The Strengths
Daly brings plenty of physical strength to the table, as he can matchup well one-on-one with an opposing teams center, or other interior lineman, creating a decent push at the line of scrimmage.
Daly's size and strength allows him to go up against an opposing teams best offensive lineman and zero in on him, but it he can also allow him to disrupt a teams run game, plugging holes and freeing up linebackers.
With his size, Daly immediately can become an offensive lineman's focus, which paves way for the other players to pressure the quarterback. A great
When the Panthers took on the Gamecocks, Daly tied his season high with five total tackles, but his best overall game came against UTEP where he posted four total tackles, one solo tackle, three assisted tackles, 0.5 sacks and 1.5 tackles for loss of yards.
What's Next
One of Daly's last opportunities for game tape prior to the draft will be the Hula Bowl on January 13.
With what Daly brings to the table, there's a possibility he becomes a steal in the sixth or seventh round of the draft. If he is an undrafted free agent or signs to a practice squad, it could still be a great situation for him.
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