Packers: What do the Scouting Reports Say About Tipa Galeai?

Edge-rusher Tipa Galeai of Utah State was one of the Green Bay Packers’ 15 UDFA signings. Here are what a few draft analysts have to say about his game.

Tipa Galeai of Utah State is one of the Green Bay Packers’ 15 undrafted free agents that they signed after the NFL Draft came to an end. For any UDFA making an NFL roster is always a long shot, but as I pointed out a recent article profiling cornerback Stanford Samuels, the Packers have had several UDFAs make an impact in recent seasons.

When it comes to the edge-rusher position in Green Bay, it is solidified on the front end with Za’Darius Smith, Preston Smith, and Rashan Gary. However, the Packers did lose Kyler Fackrell to free agency this offseason, and Galeai along with seventh-round pick Jonathan Garvin – and a few others – will be competing for that fourth spot.

Galeai began his career at TCU where he would appear in 17 games between his freshman and sophomore seasons before running into some off the field issues that eventually led to him transferring to Utah State.

There he would step into a starting role immediately and put together a productive career. Galeai would total 119 tackles, 24 of which were for a loss along with 15 sacks, two interceptions, and a fumble recovery during that 25 game span.

On top of that, according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), he would also add 38 run stops, 20 quarterback hits, and 54 hurries over that same stretch of games while lining up in multiple spots as well.

When it comes to Galeai’s game, there really is a lot to like. He has good length, he uses his hands well, he has an array of pass-rush moves, and he knows how to bend around the edge. On the flip side what may hold him back at the NFL level is that he needs to get stronger. At only 235 pounds, if an offensive tackle engages him, he will likely be taken out of the play right then and there.

For a closer look at Galeai’s game and what he can bring to this Green Bay Packers team, here is what a few draft analysts had to say in their final scouting reports prior to the draft:

Joe Marino – The Draft Network

"“Utah State edge Tipa Galeai was a productive player in college that offers good burst, bend and hustle as a prospect to the next level. With that said, he just lacks the mass and power to project favorably to the NFL.His contact balance, on account of lacking functional strength, is very poor. His processing skills do not forecast well to an off-ball role and overall, his skill set lacks upside. Perhaps he can find work shooting gaps and covering kicks but there just isn’t much appeal.”"

Kyle Crabbs – The Draft Network

"“Tipa Galeai projects as a potential developmental pass rusher or SAM LB in a 4-3 under front. Galeai has good fluidity and short area quickness, but functional play strength has left him as a player between clear and obvious roles at the next level.Ideally, Galeai is able to stack on some added weight to aid in his efforts as a point of attack defender — but if doing so will compromise his functional athleticism, then he’s going to have to be catered to or risk being pushed around on D.”"

Lance Zierlein – NFL.com

"“It’s easy to love the get-off, acceleration around the corner, spin counter and closeout burst to the quarterback, but at the end of the day, it will be tough for him to stick with a team if he can’t get bigger. Galeai’s lean frame can’t handle NFL edge-setting duties, so he’ll generally be viewed as a designated pass rusher.There is definitely enough rush talent and explosiveness for a team to draft and groom him, but he can be subdued by longer, stronger tackles. If he can keep adding to his rush repertoire and improve his hands, he’s got a shot, but he may need a stash-and-grow plan on a practice squad no matter who takes him.”"

As I said, Galeai like any UDFA is going to have an uphill battle when it comes to making the final roster. But with that said, the Packers do have some room at the edge-rusher position and there is certainly plenty to be excited about when it comes to his game. Galeai is certainly another player to keep your eyes on this summer.