PSU_dropout43
03-21-2010, 02:27 PM
1. 3T-5T Gerald McCoy
Oklahoma junior
Ht: 6-4 1/8 | Wt: 295 | Sp: 5.06 | Arm: 33 3/4 | Hand: 10 1/4
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Notes: Has a daughter. Parade All-American and Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year in 2005. Registered 165 tackles and 40 sacks his last two high school seasons. Redshirted in 2006 and endured the sudden passing of his mother in July of 2007. Missed a week of practice in August ’07 because of a mild sprain of the AC joint in his right shoulder. Started all 13 games in which he played at the three-technique, posting 19 tackles, 6 1/2 tackles for loss and two sacks with one forced fumble. Did not play against Utah State after breaking the fourth metacarpal bone in his right hand against Miami (Fla.). Was forced out of the Iowa State contest with a right ankle injury. In ’08, notched 30-11-6 1/2 with two batted passes and one interception in 14 games (all starts) for the national runners-up. Sustained a toe injury against Baylor, but did not miss a start. Started all 13 games in ’09, tallying 34-15 1/2-6 with two batted passes and a forced fumble. Was the first sophomore elected team captain in school history.
Positives: Excellent size, body length and power. Has outstanding instincts - diagnoses quickly and locates the ball. Shocks blockers with his punch and torques blockers off the ground. Uses his hands violently to lock out and rip off blocks. Plays with leverage and is quick to disengage. Outstanding balance. Motor is always revving - plays with a sense of urgency, pursues hard and ranges hard to make plays. Wears down offensive lines with his tenacity. Features a strong club and arm-over. Versatile and has lined up inside and outside. Is battle-tested on the biggest of stages (see 2008 BCS title game against Florida) and has risen to the challenge against better competition. Very highly respected team leader with a special makeup - outstanding character, intangibles and work ethic. When he speaks, everyone listens.
Negatives: Not overly stout to hold up against double-teams. At times gets washed down the line (although he played in a defense that featured a lot of slanting and stunting and, at times, put him in position to be pushed and run out). Could play with more consistent leverage. Bench-pressed 225 pounds only 23 times at the Combine.
Summary: An extremely disruptive, powerful inside penetrator who will make a mark living behind the line of scrimmage in NFL backfields, McCoy is a relentless pass rusher and will keep opposing quarterbacks on edge because of how hard he plays every snap and the consistent pressure he produces. Very mature and grounded with a strong on-field leadership presence to rally a defense. Has very little downside and will only continue to get better. Has a Pro Bowl-caliber makeup and is the type of player that is worth considering with the top pick in any given year. A special talent.
NFL projection: Top-five pick.
2. NT-DLE Ndamukong Suh
Nebraska senior
Ht: 6-3 7/8 | Wt: 307 | Sp: 5.09 | Arm: 33 1/2 | Hand: 10 1/4
Notes: Full name is pronounced “En-DOM-ah-ken Soo.” Mother is Jamaican and father is from Cameroon. Parade All-American who also lettered in basketball and track as a prep in Oregon, winning a shot put championship as a senior. Tore the meniscus in his left knee playing basketball as a senior, but did not have surgery and did not tell the Nebraska staff about the injury. Appeared in the first two games as a true freshman in ’05, but lacked strength in the knee and underwent arthroscopic surgery in September (received a medical hardship). Returned to play all 14 games at nose tackle in ’06, recording 19 tackles, eight for loss and 3 1/2 sacks with one interception and one forced fumble. Started 11-of-12 contests on the nose in ’07, registering 34-6-1 with two batted passes and one blocked PAT. Was suspended one quarter against Oklahoma State for an altercation during practice. Did not participate in ’08 spring practice after having knee surgery. Started all 13 games in ’08, registering 76-19-7 1/2 with three batted passes, two interceptions (both returned for touchdowns), a forced fumble and two blocked kicks. Became the first NU lineman to lead the team in tackles since 1973. Also was utilized as a short-yardage fullback, reeling in a two-yard TD catch against Kansas. Started all 14 games in ’09, leading the nation in tackles, tackles for loss and sacks by a defensive lineman after racking up 85-20 1/2-12 with 10 passes batted down, one interception, one forced fumble and three blocked kicks. A Heisman Trophy finalist, Suh became the first defender to win the Associated Press Player of the Year award. Also captured the Outland, Lombardi, Bednarik and Nagurski awards. Team captain. Was cited in November for negligent driving - while driving his mother’s SUV, he swerved to avoid an animal in the street and hit three parked cars. Admitted to drinking before the incident but his blood-alcohol content was .035, well below the legal limit.
Positives: Has excellent functional strength and powerful hands to ragdoll blockers. Can dig in and man two gaps and neutralize the double-team. Instinctively sniffs out screens and is quick to read hats, feel blocking pressure and react. Exceptional balance - sifts through clutter and maintains his feet. Can rip down ballcarriers one-handed while still occupying blockers and is a very strong, drive-through tackler. Shows agility to zone-drop and has good hand-eye coordination to bat balls and consistently disrupt a quarterback’s vision. Outstanding production for an interior defensive lineman. Is versatile and plays all three downs. Came very prepared to the Combine and worked out very well, registering a 35 1/2-inch vertical jump and very good shuttle times.
Negatives: Is not a creative pass rusher - relies on his upper-body strength and effort to generate pressure and does not have a plan. Lacks elite flexibility and agility to work the edges. Too often vacates his gap and can play with more consistent leverage. Needs to learn how to unlock his hips more consistently. Weight has fluctuated and dipped close to 290 late in the season.
Summary: Played square to the line of scrimmage and did not attack his reads in Bo Pelini’s defense, limiting his ability to get off the ball. Will never be a dominant inside rusher given his inability to unlock and use the power in his hips. Is extremely strong, athletic and versatile and showed the ability to dominate college football. Versatile and well-suited to thrive in any type of front. Has perennial Pro Bowl potential.
NFL projection: Top-five pick.
3. DLE-OLB Derrick Morgan
Georgia Tech junior
Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 266 | Sp: 4.78 | Arm: 34 1/2 | Hand: 9 3/4
Notes: High school defensive lineman-fullback. As a true freshman in 2007, saw limited action in 12 games, recording nine tackles, 1 1/2 tackles for loss and zero sacks with one pass batted down. Did not play against Duke (coach’s decision). In ’08, started all 13 games, producing 51-9 1/2-7 with three batted passes and a blocked field-goal attempt that preserved a victory over Gardner-Webb. Started all 14 games in ’09, registering 55-18 1/2-12 1/2 with one pass batted down and two forced fumbles. Was used on offense for a handful of plays as a freshman and carried for two yards on a fake punt as a junior. Team captain. Did not bench-press at the Combine because of a right shoulder injury.
Positives: Has outstanding size and growth potential with very long arms. Good instincts - feels blocking pressure. Good base strength. Physical - stacks the point and constricts running lanes. Has a strong bull-rush move to overpower blockers. Motor runs non-stop with consistent energy and effort. Good hand technician. Works to come free and makes a lot of hustle plays - spins, counters, hustles and chases and does not give up in backside pursuit. Flushes a lot of production to his teammates. Strong, physical tackler. Outstanding football temperament - leaves everything on the field. Very versatile - has the size and bone structure to carry more weight and has the potential to play anywhere along the line in a “30” or “40” front. Outstanding production. Clocked among the fastest 10-yard times (1.60 seconds) of any defensive end at the Combine and performed very well in agility drills.
Negatives: Piled up sacks against average tackles and can be challenged by top competition. Not a creative pass rusher and lacks elite burst and acceleration off the edge. Does not have great lateral agility to shadow quicker backs in space. Is often a half-step late to arrive at the quarterback and lacks elite closing burst.
Summary: Is not flashy. More of an effort producer than a skill producer, but offers very intriguing versatility and is easily the safest defensive end in the draft because teams will be comforted knowing exactly what they are getting. Played above 280 pounds but weighed in at 266 at the Combine. Has unique potential to fit as an outside ‘backer in a “30” front or bulk up and man the five-technique in a slanting, aggressive “30” front such as that of the Steelers, Ravens or Bills. Also could be a very effective left end in a “40” front; he even kicked inside in college and rushed from the inside at times. Has a motor that does not stop, and his best football is still ahead of him.
NFL projection: Top-15 pick.
4. DRE-OLB Brandon Graham
Michigan senior
Ht: 6-1 3/8 | Wt: 268 | Sp: 4.74 | Arm: 32 1/4 | Hand: 9 7/8
Brandon Graham
(Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Notes: Parade All-American who played offensive guard, linebacker and punter, in addition to competing in basketball and track and field. Missed three games his senior year (knee), but still managed to be named Michigan’s Gatorade Player of the Year. As a true freshman in 2006, saw action as a backup lineman in 11 games and recorded three tackles, half a tackle for loss and half a sack. Started 5-of-13 games in ’07, posting 25-9 1/2-8 1/2 with one batted pass and three forced fumbles. In ’08, started all 11 games played, registering 46-20-10 with two forced fumbles. Did not play against Toledo (leg infection). Playing for his third defensive coordinator (Greg Robinson) in as many seasons in ’09, was voted team MVP for the second year in a row (first defensive player in UM history to be voted team MVP twice). Started all 12 games at end in a 3-4 alignment and led the nation in tackles for loss (nearly 41 percent of his tackles were behind the line of scrimmage) by registering 64-26-10 1/2 with two passes batted down, two forced fumbles and two blocked kicks. Also returned a blocked punt two yards for a TD vs. Delaware State. Team captain punctuated his collegiate career with an MVP performance in the Senior Bowl. Arrived at UM weighing nearly 300 pounds, but shed approximately 30 pounds to get down to his playing weight. Pulled his left hamstring running the 40-yard dash at the Combine and did not perform shuttles.
Positives: Good upper-body strength. Natural bender with pure pass-rush ability. Rushes with power (strong bull rush), gets underneath blockers’ pads and uses his hands very well to rip off blocks. Has a very quick first two steps. Consistently powers through contact and slip-sheds. Strong physical tackler. Good instincts - feels blocking pressure and has a knack for making plays in the backfield. Very good football temperament - intense, competitive and tenacious. Plays hard and gives consistent effort - motor always runs. Strong tackler. Very productive and opportunistic and stood out at the Senior Bowl. Matched up favorably against better competition. Bench-pressed 225 pounds 31 times at the Combine.
Negatives: Lacks ideal height and arm length - lets blockers into his frame and can be washed by larger offensive linemen. Lacks elite athletic ability, fluidity of movement and closing burst. Can be late off the ball. Is best when assignments are simplified and he can be turned loose to rush the passer. Can do a better job protecting his legs.
Summary: A short, square-cut, disruptive leverage-power rusher who played with his hand on the ground at Michigan but could project to a rush linebacker role in an aggressive, one-gapping “30” front such as that of the Ravens, Steelers or Chargers. Could fit equally well in a “40” front such as that of the Colts or Buccaneers. Will come off the board before more physically gifted players at his position due to his consistent motor, production and dependability.
NFL projection: Top-40 pick.
5. NT Dan Williams
Tennessee senior
Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 327 | Sp: 5.24 | Arm: 33 1/2 | Hand: 10 1/8
Notes: Redshirted in 2005, when he weighed nearly 360 pounds (reportedly has since sworn off fast food). Saw limited action in six games in ’06 and was credited with two tackles, one for loss and one sack. In ’07, started 10-of-14 games at right defensive tackle, totaling 40-6 1/2-2 with a blocked field goal. Started 9-of-12 contests in ’08, tallying 48-8 1?2-1 1/2 with one pass batted down. Yielded a start to Walter Fisher against UAB. Sprained his right ankle against Alabama and did not start against South Carolina or Vanderbilt. Playing under then-defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin in ’09, started all 13 games at right DT spot and produced 70-9-2 1/2, becoming just the fourth Vols interior D-lineman to record 60 or more tackles in a season.
Positives: Stoutly built with a thick trunk. Very strong to stack the point and anchor against the run. Good balance and body control. Is light on his feet and has good movement skills for a big man. Crosses the face of defenders - darts through reach blocks. Locates quickly - reads screen and chases the ball. Takes short, powerful strides and can push the pocket.
Negatives: Does not play with a load in his hands or play off blocks as quickly as he should - stays tied up. Is not quick off the snap and lacks closing burst to finish plays. Brings little value as an inside pass rusher. Questionable stamina - fatigues late in games. Conditioning needs to be monitored - weight has fluctuated throughout his career.
Summary: A thick-trunked, stout interior defender equipped to handle the dirty work, Williams is a movement nose tackle in the mold of Casey Hampton(notes), although not quite as strong, powerful or agile. Can become a very effective two-down run stuffer in a four-man front if he learns to play with consistent leverage and becomes a better hands fighter.
NFL projection: First-round pick.
6. 3T-DLE Jared Odrick
Penn State senior
Ht: 6-5 | Wt: 304 | Sp: 5.06 | Arm: 34 | Hand: 9 3/4
Notes: Parade All-American in high school. As a true freshman in 2006, played 10 games as a reserve defensive end and recorded four tackles and one for loss (a sack). In ’07, started 7-of-8 games played, totaling 16-4-2 with one pass batted down and a blocked kick before his season ended prematurely because of two injuries. Broke two bones in his left hand against Wisconsin then dislocated his right ankle against Indiana. In ’08, started 11-of-13 games, totaling 41-9 1/2-4 1/2 with three batted passes and one forced fumble. Did not start the season opener against Coastal Carolina (insufficient practice time after recovering from injury) or against Iowa. Was charged with disorderly conduct in March ’09 after getting into a fight with three Penn State students and another man and allegedly punching one of them. Police believed alcohol was a factor in the incident. Was the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in ’09 after registering 43-11-7 with one pass batted down and one blocked kick in 13 starts.
Positives: Looks the part with a projectable frame and excellent body length to disrupt passing lanes. Outstanding athlete for a big man - good initial quickness and agility. Can torque his body, get skinny and knife through gaps. Loose-hipped with nice bend to twist and stunt. Creates extension and has a strong club-swim move. Drew constant double-teams and flushed a lot of production to teammates. Pursues hard - flattens down the line and ranges to the perimeter to make plays. Secure, wrap tackler. Outstanding work ethic. Tough and will play through injuries.
Negatives: Does not consistently play to his size. Not stout for a 300-pounder - lacks base strength to anchor and does not generate power from his lower half. Too often plays narrow-based. Is tall and gets washed when he lets his pads rise. Lunges and loses balance. Can do a better job working his hands and feet in unison. Lacks elite closing burst at the top of his rush. Could play more disciplined.
Summary: Big, versatile, athletic defensive tackle with flexibility and quickness to play the three-technique in a four-man front where he can slant, stunt and penetrate. Lack of base strength and inconsistent pad level could lessen interest from odd-front defenses seeking fenceposts, but will also warrant interest as a five-technique and overall versatility adds to his value.
NFL projection: Late first-round pick.
7. DRE-OLB Everson Griffen
USC junior
Ht: 6-3 3/8 | Wt: 273 | Sp: 4.66 | Arm: 32 5/8 | Hand: 10
Everson Griffen
(Jeff Golden/Getty Images)
Notes: Cousin, Keegan Herring, was a running back at Arizona State (2005-08). Griffen was a Parade All-American and the Arizona Gatorade Player of the Year as a defensive end-running back. In 2007, became the first USC true freshman to start a season opener on the defensive line since 1986. Played in all 13 games, starting two, and tallied 21 tackles and 5 1/2 for loss (all sacks) with two batted passes and two forced fumbles serving as a pass-rush specialist. In ’08, played 13 games and managed 18-6-4 1/2. Started the first three games before losing his spot atop the depth chart at the “Elephant” position to Green Bay Packers ’09 first-rounder Clay Matthews(notes). Did not play against Washington State (illness) and dealt with a torn toenail in late October. Was suspended for the first practice in spring ’09 (academics). Took a liking to new position coach Jethro Franklin, starting all 12 games played and posting 45-9 1/2-8 with one batted pass and one forced fumble despite dealing with nagging injuries. Sprained his left ankle against Oregon, did not play against Arizona State (turf toe) and sustained another ankle sprain against Boston College in the Emerald Bowl.
Positives: Looks the part with a strong upper body and a frame to support added bulk. Runs like a linebacker. Has quick, strong hands and flashes some hand violence. Good upfield takeoff - has a long, explosive first step and takes choppy, powerful strides in tight quarters. Accelerates through the gap on loops and stunts. Ranges to make plays. Flashes a spin move. Forceful tackler.
Negatives: Inconsistent instincts and intensity - motor runs hot and cold. Too much of his production is against air or tight ends. Lacks elite bend off the corner. Needs to develop a more diverse pass-rush arsenal. Undisciplined - freelances too often and loses gap integrity. Lacks focus. Plays with an every-other-play mentality and disappears for stretches. Is not grounded and could get caught up in the trappings of success. Inconsistent practice habits. Has a sense of entitlement. Questionable mental and physical toughness. Interviewed poorly at the Combine.
Summary: Has first-round talent and has long been viewed as a star-in-waiting, but did not live up to the hype at USC. Teased evaluators with his quickness, power and explosion early in the season but was sidetracked by injuries and fell off in the second half of the season. Has an intriguing skill set with disruptive quickness and edge burst, but comes with a “buyer beware” label due to intermittent intensity, lack of discipline and questions about his mental makeup. Overall lack of toughness could push him to the second round and keep him from ever realizing his potential.
NFL projection: Top-50 pick.
8. 3T-DLE Tyson Alualu
California senior
Ht: 6-2 3/8 | Wt: 295 | Sp: 4.92 | Arm: 33 | Hand: 10
Notes: Father is a pastor. Last name is pronounced “AH-loo AH-loo.” Married with two children. Signed with Cal in 2005, but delayed enrollment until January ’06 for the birth of his first child and marriage. In the fall, saw action in all 13 games (started at defensive tackle against Oregon State) and recorded 12 tackles without a tackle for loss or sack. Reportedly dropped from his freshman weight of 315 pounds to the 260s as a 4-3 defensive end in ’07, a season in which he started all 13 games on the right side and produced 52-3 1/2-2 1/2 with one pass batted down, one interception and a blocked kick. Also returned a fumble four yards for a touchdown against Arizona. The Bears converted to a 3-4 scheme in ’08 and Alualu played end, posting the most tackles by a Cal defensive lineman in 13 years. Started all 13 games, notching 62-11-6 with two batted passes and two forced fumbles despite a mid-October leg infection. Started all 13 games in ’09 and registered 65-11 1/2-7 1/2 plus three passes batted and two forced fumbles. Team captain. Wore jersey No. 90 as a freshman.
Positives: Has quick, strong hands and plays strong. Fine two-gap ability - is naturally strong to stack the line and hold his ground at the point of attack. Strong tackler. Plays with a load in his hands. Can gain extension, lock out and control blockers. Comes off the ball low and plays with leverage. Good agility and balance - is light on his feet, moves well for a big man and is seldom on the ground. Quick and very active. Has a very good motor and pursues the ball. Has a feel for the game. Very versatile and has played every position on the line. Can zone drop and fall back into coverage. Very instinctive with outstanding football intelligence - quick to feel pressure, read hats and locate the ball. Solid character. Highly respected team leader. Stood out at the Senior Bowl. Registered a 35-inch vertical jump and better shuttle times than any defensive tackle at the Combine. Extremely tough and durable.
Negatives: Does not have ideal body length for a five-technique. Does not show elite lower-body explosion and quick-twitch movement. Needs to develop a wider array of counter moves to free himself up and can be hung up on the line of scrimmage too much. Bench-pressed 225 pounds only 21 times (although he plays stronger). Average outside pass rusher.
Summary: Strong, stoutly built, high-energy, athletic defender with the versatility to play anywhere in a “30” or “40” front and could be a terrific mismatch piece for a creative defensive mind. Was not used to penetrate inside much in college, but could be an explosive three-technique in the pros. Could become an outstanding pro if paired with the right coach and should be very attractive to the Jets, Ravens and Patriots.
NFL projection: Top-50 pick.
9. DLE-OLB Corey Wootton
Northwestern senior
Ht: 6-6 | Wt: 270 | Sp: 4.8e | Arm: 34 3/4 | Hand: 10 1/4
Notes: Played high school ball at New Jersey’s famed Don Bosco Prep, where he won two state titles. Had a broken wrist his junior year. Saw limited action in three games at Northwestern before a neck injury shelved him for the 2005 season. Was granted a medical hardship. Started all 12 games at left end in ’06, recording 51 tackles, nine for loss and 4 1/2 sacks with one pass batted down, two interceptions, one forced fumble and a blocked kick. Moved to right end in ’07 and started 11-of-12 games, notching 39-7-1 with five passes batted down, one interception and a blocked kick. Sustained a hip flexor against Ohio State and did not start against Eastern Michigan (coach’s decision). Started all 13 games at right end in ’08, registering 42-16-10 with one batted pass, one interception and a forced fumble. Suffered a torn ACL in his right knee in the Alamo Bowl and underwent surgery in mid-January ’09. Sat out spring practice and was not 100 percent at the beginning of the season. Played in all 13 games (11 starts) in ’09, producing 21-6-4 with one forced fumble and a blocked kick. Sprained his right ankle against Purdue and was limited for most of October, missing starts against Miami (Ohio) and Michigan State. Did not run at the Combine, as he was nursing a left quad injury.
Positives: Looks every bit the part - has an athletic build with the wingspan of a condor. Has a frame to support added bulk. Good anchor strength to defend the run - can stack and shed. Good movement skills and athletic ability. Good balance. Moved very well laterally with agility to flatten down the line and close on the ball prior to his knee injury. Smart, tough and hardworking. Solid character. Showed glimpses of his junior form (see momentum-changing strip-sack against Iowa).
Negatives: Ordinary first-step quickness and quick-twitch. Not a natural pass rusher - spins in place, lacks creativity and does not collapse the pocket. Not a great hand technician - does not free himself and gain ground at the top of his rush. Short-step, heel runner. Is too often caught flat-footed and does not play with a lot of foot energy or change direction fluidly. Bench-pressed 225 pounds only 20 times at the Combine. Durability needs to be evaluated.
Summary: Did not return to full strength as a senior when he clearly looked less explosive and his production dropped significantly but did show the toughness to battle through the injury. Planted tentatively and clearly could not cut. Evaluators will have to revisit Wootton’s 2008 tape, but he compares to Giants DL Chris Canty(notes) when healthy and has the size, strength and arm length to fit as a 3-4 end or 4-3 base end with versatility to rush from the inside. Is light enough on his feet to even warrant a try as an outside linebacker in a traditional “30” front such as that of the Dolphins, Chiefs or Browns. Spring workouts will determine his draft value. Could turn out to be a tremendous value pick if he returns to junior form. Has starter potential.
NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.
10. 3T Brian Price
UCLA junior
Ht: 6-1 1/8 | Wt: 303 | Sp: 5.14 | Arm: 32 1/4 | Hand: 9 1/2
Notes: Godfather, Brian Shaw, is a 15-year NBA veteran and current Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach. Price, who grew up in the crime-infested Crenshaw district of Los Angeles where two of his brothers were murdered in a four-year span, was a highly recruited Parade All-American. As a true freshman in 2007, he missed fall camp and the first three games of the season while waiting for clearance from the NCAA. Upon returning to the field, started 5-of-10 games played and managed 14 tackles, seven for loss and one sack with one pass batted down and two forced fumbles. In ’08, started all 12 games, registering 35-14-4 1/2 with one batted pass, one interception, a forced fumble and a blocked kick. Also was occasionally used as a blocking fullback. Started all 13 games in ’09, totaling 48-23 1/2-7 with one pass batted down and two forced fumbles. Did not run shuttles at the Combine because of calf cramps.
Positives: Squarely built with a strong upper body (bench-pressed 225 pounds 34 times at the Combine). Quick-footed and very agile for his size. Explodes off the snap and re-establishes the line of scrimmage. Rips under blocks and powers through double-teams. Flashes great power in his hands to press, shed and control blockers. Strong bull rush with short powerful steps to cave the pocket. Heavy hitter - swallows ballcarriers. Also kicked outside in odd fronts. Has a chip on his shoulder, having overcome a lot of adversity in his life.
Negatives: Short, smooth-muscled body that limits his stamina - tires easily and taps out of too many plays. Selfish. Immature. Needs to improve core strength - is too top-heavy and lacks anchor strength to hold the point vs. double-teams. Has gut power and will never be a good pass rusher - sack production came in clumps against marginal offensive lines. Tends to play too tall and gets washed. Lacks pass-rush variety and does not use his hands well. Lets his feet stall and is not relentless in pursuit. Does not flatten, break down and change direction well and is best limited to a short area.
Summary: Compactly built penetrator who was very productive despite not playing at an optimum conditioning level and sitting out a significant number of snaps when winded. Shows big-time flashes when his battery is charged and has potential as a penetrating three-technique with enough power to slide over the nose in a slanting, one-gap scheme. A pit bull who will be best playing in gaps.
NFL projection: Top-50 pick.
Oklahoma junior
Ht: 6-4 1/8 | Wt: 295 | Sp: 5.06 | Arm: 33 3/4 | Hand: 10 1/4
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Notes: Has a daughter. Parade All-American and Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year in 2005. Registered 165 tackles and 40 sacks his last two high school seasons. Redshirted in 2006 and endured the sudden passing of his mother in July of 2007. Missed a week of practice in August ’07 because of a mild sprain of the AC joint in his right shoulder. Started all 13 games in which he played at the three-technique, posting 19 tackles, 6 1/2 tackles for loss and two sacks with one forced fumble. Did not play against Utah State after breaking the fourth metacarpal bone in his right hand against Miami (Fla.). Was forced out of the Iowa State contest with a right ankle injury. In ’08, notched 30-11-6 1/2 with two batted passes and one interception in 14 games (all starts) for the national runners-up. Sustained a toe injury against Baylor, but did not miss a start. Started all 13 games in ’09, tallying 34-15 1/2-6 with two batted passes and a forced fumble. Was the first sophomore elected team captain in school history.
Positives: Excellent size, body length and power. Has outstanding instincts - diagnoses quickly and locates the ball. Shocks blockers with his punch and torques blockers off the ground. Uses his hands violently to lock out and rip off blocks. Plays with leverage and is quick to disengage. Outstanding balance. Motor is always revving - plays with a sense of urgency, pursues hard and ranges hard to make plays. Wears down offensive lines with his tenacity. Features a strong club and arm-over. Versatile and has lined up inside and outside. Is battle-tested on the biggest of stages (see 2008 BCS title game against Florida) and has risen to the challenge against better competition. Very highly respected team leader with a special makeup - outstanding character, intangibles and work ethic. When he speaks, everyone listens.
Negatives: Not overly stout to hold up against double-teams. At times gets washed down the line (although he played in a defense that featured a lot of slanting and stunting and, at times, put him in position to be pushed and run out). Could play with more consistent leverage. Bench-pressed 225 pounds only 23 times at the Combine.
Summary: An extremely disruptive, powerful inside penetrator who will make a mark living behind the line of scrimmage in NFL backfields, McCoy is a relentless pass rusher and will keep opposing quarterbacks on edge because of how hard he plays every snap and the consistent pressure he produces. Very mature and grounded with a strong on-field leadership presence to rally a defense. Has very little downside and will only continue to get better. Has a Pro Bowl-caliber makeup and is the type of player that is worth considering with the top pick in any given year. A special talent.
NFL projection: Top-five pick.
2. NT-DLE Ndamukong Suh
Nebraska senior
Ht: 6-3 7/8 | Wt: 307 | Sp: 5.09 | Arm: 33 1/2 | Hand: 10 1/4
Notes: Full name is pronounced “En-DOM-ah-ken Soo.” Mother is Jamaican and father is from Cameroon. Parade All-American who also lettered in basketball and track as a prep in Oregon, winning a shot put championship as a senior. Tore the meniscus in his left knee playing basketball as a senior, but did not have surgery and did not tell the Nebraska staff about the injury. Appeared in the first two games as a true freshman in ’05, but lacked strength in the knee and underwent arthroscopic surgery in September (received a medical hardship). Returned to play all 14 games at nose tackle in ’06, recording 19 tackles, eight for loss and 3 1/2 sacks with one interception and one forced fumble. Started 11-of-12 contests on the nose in ’07, registering 34-6-1 with two batted passes and one blocked PAT. Was suspended one quarter against Oklahoma State for an altercation during practice. Did not participate in ’08 spring practice after having knee surgery. Started all 13 games in ’08, registering 76-19-7 1/2 with three batted passes, two interceptions (both returned for touchdowns), a forced fumble and two blocked kicks. Became the first NU lineman to lead the team in tackles since 1973. Also was utilized as a short-yardage fullback, reeling in a two-yard TD catch against Kansas. Started all 14 games in ’09, leading the nation in tackles, tackles for loss and sacks by a defensive lineman after racking up 85-20 1/2-12 with 10 passes batted down, one interception, one forced fumble and three blocked kicks. A Heisman Trophy finalist, Suh became the first defender to win the Associated Press Player of the Year award. Also captured the Outland, Lombardi, Bednarik and Nagurski awards. Team captain. Was cited in November for negligent driving - while driving his mother’s SUV, he swerved to avoid an animal in the street and hit three parked cars. Admitted to drinking before the incident but his blood-alcohol content was .035, well below the legal limit.
Positives: Has excellent functional strength and powerful hands to ragdoll blockers. Can dig in and man two gaps and neutralize the double-team. Instinctively sniffs out screens and is quick to read hats, feel blocking pressure and react. Exceptional balance - sifts through clutter and maintains his feet. Can rip down ballcarriers one-handed while still occupying blockers and is a very strong, drive-through tackler. Shows agility to zone-drop and has good hand-eye coordination to bat balls and consistently disrupt a quarterback’s vision. Outstanding production for an interior defensive lineman. Is versatile and plays all three downs. Came very prepared to the Combine and worked out very well, registering a 35 1/2-inch vertical jump and very good shuttle times.
Negatives: Is not a creative pass rusher - relies on his upper-body strength and effort to generate pressure and does not have a plan. Lacks elite flexibility and agility to work the edges. Too often vacates his gap and can play with more consistent leverage. Needs to learn how to unlock his hips more consistently. Weight has fluctuated and dipped close to 290 late in the season.
Summary: Played square to the line of scrimmage and did not attack his reads in Bo Pelini’s defense, limiting his ability to get off the ball. Will never be a dominant inside rusher given his inability to unlock and use the power in his hips. Is extremely strong, athletic and versatile and showed the ability to dominate college football. Versatile and well-suited to thrive in any type of front. Has perennial Pro Bowl potential.
NFL projection: Top-five pick.
3. DLE-OLB Derrick Morgan
Georgia Tech junior
Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 266 | Sp: 4.78 | Arm: 34 1/2 | Hand: 9 3/4
Notes: High school defensive lineman-fullback. As a true freshman in 2007, saw limited action in 12 games, recording nine tackles, 1 1/2 tackles for loss and zero sacks with one pass batted down. Did not play against Duke (coach’s decision). In ’08, started all 13 games, producing 51-9 1/2-7 with three batted passes and a blocked field-goal attempt that preserved a victory over Gardner-Webb. Started all 14 games in ’09, registering 55-18 1/2-12 1/2 with one pass batted down and two forced fumbles. Was used on offense for a handful of plays as a freshman and carried for two yards on a fake punt as a junior. Team captain. Did not bench-press at the Combine because of a right shoulder injury.
Positives: Has outstanding size and growth potential with very long arms. Good instincts - feels blocking pressure. Good base strength. Physical - stacks the point and constricts running lanes. Has a strong bull-rush move to overpower blockers. Motor runs non-stop with consistent energy and effort. Good hand technician. Works to come free and makes a lot of hustle plays - spins, counters, hustles and chases and does not give up in backside pursuit. Flushes a lot of production to his teammates. Strong, physical tackler. Outstanding football temperament - leaves everything on the field. Very versatile - has the size and bone structure to carry more weight and has the potential to play anywhere along the line in a “30” or “40” front. Outstanding production. Clocked among the fastest 10-yard times (1.60 seconds) of any defensive end at the Combine and performed very well in agility drills.
Negatives: Piled up sacks against average tackles and can be challenged by top competition. Not a creative pass rusher and lacks elite burst and acceleration off the edge. Does not have great lateral agility to shadow quicker backs in space. Is often a half-step late to arrive at the quarterback and lacks elite closing burst.
Summary: Is not flashy. More of an effort producer than a skill producer, but offers very intriguing versatility and is easily the safest defensive end in the draft because teams will be comforted knowing exactly what they are getting. Played above 280 pounds but weighed in at 266 at the Combine. Has unique potential to fit as an outside ‘backer in a “30” front or bulk up and man the five-technique in a slanting, aggressive “30” front such as that of the Steelers, Ravens or Bills. Also could be a very effective left end in a “40” front; he even kicked inside in college and rushed from the inside at times. Has a motor that does not stop, and his best football is still ahead of him.
NFL projection: Top-15 pick.
4. DRE-OLB Brandon Graham
Michigan senior
Ht: 6-1 3/8 | Wt: 268 | Sp: 4.74 | Arm: 32 1/4 | Hand: 9 7/8
Brandon Graham
(Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Notes: Parade All-American who played offensive guard, linebacker and punter, in addition to competing in basketball and track and field. Missed three games his senior year (knee), but still managed to be named Michigan’s Gatorade Player of the Year. As a true freshman in 2006, saw action as a backup lineman in 11 games and recorded three tackles, half a tackle for loss and half a sack. Started 5-of-13 games in ’07, posting 25-9 1/2-8 1/2 with one batted pass and three forced fumbles. In ’08, started all 11 games played, registering 46-20-10 with two forced fumbles. Did not play against Toledo (leg infection). Playing for his third defensive coordinator (Greg Robinson) in as many seasons in ’09, was voted team MVP for the second year in a row (first defensive player in UM history to be voted team MVP twice). Started all 12 games at end in a 3-4 alignment and led the nation in tackles for loss (nearly 41 percent of his tackles were behind the line of scrimmage) by registering 64-26-10 1/2 with two passes batted down, two forced fumbles and two blocked kicks. Also returned a blocked punt two yards for a TD vs. Delaware State. Team captain punctuated his collegiate career with an MVP performance in the Senior Bowl. Arrived at UM weighing nearly 300 pounds, but shed approximately 30 pounds to get down to his playing weight. Pulled his left hamstring running the 40-yard dash at the Combine and did not perform shuttles.
Positives: Good upper-body strength. Natural bender with pure pass-rush ability. Rushes with power (strong bull rush), gets underneath blockers’ pads and uses his hands very well to rip off blocks. Has a very quick first two steps. Consistently powers through contact and slip-sheds. Strong physical tackler. Good instincts - feels blocking pressure and has a knack for making plays in the backfield. Very good football temperament - intense, competitive and tenacious. Plays hard and gives consistent effort - motor always runs. Strong tackler. Very productive and opportunistic and stood out at the Senior Bowl. Matched up favorably against better competition. Bench-pressed 225 pounds 31 times at the Combine.
Negatives: Lacks ideal height and arm length - lets blockers into his frame and can be washed by larger offensive linemen. Lacks elite athletic ability, fluidity of movement and closing burst. Can be late off the ball. Is best when assignments are simplified and he can be turned loose to rush the passer. Can do a better job protecting his legs.
Summary: A short, square-cut, disruptive leverage-power rusher who played with his hand on the ground at Michigan but could project to a rush linebacker role in an aggressive, one-gapping “30” front such as that of the Ravens, Steelers or Chargers. Could fit equally well in a “40” front such as that of the Colts or Buccaneers. Will come off the board before more physically gifted players at his position due to his consistent motor, production and dependability.
NFL projection: Top-40 pick.
5. NT Dan Williams
Tennessee senior
Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 327 | Sp: 5.24 | Arm: 33 1/2 | Hand: 10 1/8
Notes: Redshirted in 2005, when he weighed nearly 360 pounds (reportedly has since sworn off fast food). Saw limited action in six games in ’06 and was credited with two tackles, one for loss and one sack. In ’07, started 10-of-14 games at right defensive tackle, totaling 40-6 1/2-2 with a blocked field goal. Started 9-of-12 contests in ’08, tallying 48-8 1?2-1 1/2 with one pass batted down. Yielded a start to Walter Fisher against UAB. Sprained his right ankle against Alabama and did not start against South Carolina or Vanderbilt. Playing under then-defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin in ’09, started all 13 games at right DT spot and produced 70-9-2 1/2, becoming just the fourth Vols interior D-lineman to record 60 or more tackles in a season.
Positives: Stoutly built with a thick trunk. Very strong to stack the point and anchor against the run. Good balance and body control. Is light on his feet and has good movement skills for a big man. Crosses the face of defenders - darts through reach blocks. Locates quickly - reads screen and chases the ball. Takes short, powerful strides and can push the pocket.
Negatives: Does not play with a load in his hands or play off blocks as quickly as he should - stays tied up. Is not quick off the snap and lacks closing burst to finish plays. Brings little value as an inside pass rusher. Questionable stamina - fatigues late in games. Conditioning needs to be monitored - weight has fluctuated throughout his career.
Summary: A thick-trunked, stout interior defender equipped to handle the dirty work, Williams is a movement nose tackle in the mold of Casey Hampton(notes), although not quite as strong, powerful or agile. Can become a very effective two-down run stuffer in a four-man front if he learns to play with consistent leverage and becomes a better hands fighter.
NFL projection: First-round pick.
6. 3T-DLE Jared Odrick
Penn State senior
Ht: 6-5 | Wt: 304 | Sp: 5.06 | Arm: 34 | Hand: 9 3/4
Notes: Parade All-American in high school. As a true freshman in 2006, played 10 games as a reserve defensive end and recorded four tackles and one for loss (a sack). In ’07, started 7-of-8 games played, totaling 16-4-2 with one pass batted down and a blocked kick before his season ended prematurely because of two injuries. Broke two bones in his left hand against Wisconsin then dislocated his right ankle against Indiana. In ’08, started 11-of-13 games, totaling 41-9 1/2-4 1/2 with three batted passes and one forced fumble. Did not start the season opener against Coastal Carolina (insufficient practice time after recovering from injury) or against Iowa. Was charged with disorderly conduct in March ’09 after getting into a fight with three Penn State students and another man and allegedly punching one of them. Police believed alcohol was a factor in the incident. Was the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in ’09 after registering 43-11-7 with one pass batted down and one blocked kick in 13 starts.
Positives: Looks the part with a projectable frame and excellent body length to disrupt passing lanes. Outstanding athlete for a big man - good initial quickness and agility. Can torque his body, get skinny and knife through gaps. Loose-hipped with nice bend to twist and stunt. Creates extension and has a strong club-swim move. Drew constant double-teams and flushed a lot of production to teammates. Pursues hard - flattens down the line and ranges to the perimeter to make plays. Secure, wrap tackler. Outstanding work ethic. Tough and will play through injuries.
Negatives: Does not consistently play to his size. Not stout for a 300-pounder - lacks base strength to anchor and does not generate power from his lower half. Too often plays narrow-based. Is tall and gets washed when he lets his pads rise. Lunges and loses balance. Can do a better job working his hands and feet in unison. Lacks elite closing burst at the top of his rush. Could play more disciplined.
Summary: Big, versatile, athletic defensive tackle with flexibility and quickness to play the three-technique in a four-man front where he can slant, stunt and penetrate. Lack of base strength and inconsistent pad level could lessen interest from odd-front defenses seeking fenceposts, but will also warrant interest as a five-technique and overall versatility adds to his value.
NFL projection: Late first-round pick.
7. DRE-OLB Everson Griffen
USC junior
Ht: 6-3 3/8 | Wt: 273 | Sp: 4.66 | Arm: 32 5/8 | Hand: 10
Everson Griffen
(Jeff Golden/Getty Images)
Notes: Cousin, Keegan Herring, was a running back at Arizona State (2005-08). Griffen was a Parade All-American and the Arizona Gatorade Player of the Year as a defensive end-running back. In 2007, became the first USC true freshman to start a season opener on the defensive line since 1986. Played in all 13 games, starting two, and tallied 21 tackles and 5 1/2 for loss (all sacks) with two batted passes and two forced fumbles serving as a pass-rush specialist. In ’08, played 13 games and managed 18-6-4 1/2. Started the first three games before losing his spot atop the depth chart at the “Elephant” position to Green Bay Packers ’09 first-rounder Clay Matthews(notes). Did not play against Washington State (illness) and dealt with a torn toenail in late October. Was suspended for the first practice in spring ’09 (academics). Took a liking to new position coach Jethro Franklin, starting all 12 games played and posting 45-9 1/2-8 with one batted pass and one forced fumble despite dealing with nagging injuries. Sprained his left ankle against Oregon, did not play against Arizona State (turf toe) and sustained another ankle sprain against Boston College in the Emerald Bowl.
Positives: Looks the part with a strong upper body and a frame to support added bulk. Runs like a linebacker. Has quick, strong hands and flashes some hand violence. Good upfield takeoff - has a long, explosive first step and takes choppy, powerful strides in tight quarters. Accelerates through the gap on loops and stunts. Ranges to make plays. Flashes a spin move. Forceful tackler.
Negatives: Inconsistent instincts and intensity - motor runs hot and cold. Too much of his production is against air or tight ends. Lacks elite bend off the corner. Needs to develop a more diverse pass-rush arsenal. Undisciplined - freelances too often and loses gap integrity. Lacks focus. Plays with an every-other-play mentality and disappears for stretches. Is not grounded and could get caught up in the trappings of success. Inconsistent practice habits. Has a sense of entitlement. Questionable mental and physical toughness. Interviewed poorly at the Combine.
Summary: Has first-round talent and has long been viewed as a star-in-waiting, but did not live up to the hype at USC. Teased evaluators with his quickness, power and explosion early in the season but was sidetracked by injuries and fell off in the second half of the season. Has an intriguing skill set with disruptive quickness and edge burst, but comes with a “buyer beware” label due to intermittent intensity, lack of discipline and questions about his mental makeup. Overall lack of toughness could push him to the second round and keep him from ever realizing his potential.
NFL projection: Top-50 pick.
8. 3T-DLE Tyson Alualu
California senior
Ht: 6-2 3/8 | Wt: 295 | Sp: 4.92 | Arm: 33 | Hand: 10
Notes: Father is a pastor. Last name is pronounced “AH-loo AH-loo.” Married with two children. Signed with Cal in 2005, but delayed enrollment until January ’06 for the birth of his first child and marriage. In the fall, saw action in all 13 games (started at defensive tackle against Oregon State) and recorded 12 tackles without a tackle for loss or sack. Reportedly dropped from his freshman weight of 315 pounds to the 260s as a 4-3 defensive end in ’07, a season in which he started all 13 games on the right side and produced 52-3 1/2-2 1/2 with one pass batted down, one interception and a blocked kick. Also returned a fumble four yards for a touchdown against Arizona. The Bears converted to a 3-4 scheme in ’08 and Alualu played end, posting the most tackles by a Cal defensive lineman in 13 years. Started all 13 games, notching 62-11-6 with two batted passes and two forced fumbles despite a mid-October leg infection. Started all 13 games in ’09 and registered 65-11 1/2-7 1/2 plus three passes batted and two forced fumbles. Team captain. Wore jersey No. 90 as a freshman.
Positives: Has quick, strong hands and plays strong. Fine two-gap ability - is naturally strong to stack the line and hold his ground at the point of attack. Strong tackler. Plays with a load in his hands. Can gain extension, lock out and control blockers. Comes off the ball low and plays with leverage. Good agility and balance - is light on his feet, moves well for a big man and is seldom on the ground. Quick and very active. Has a very good motor and pursues the ball. Has a feel for the game. Very versatile and has played every position on the line. Can zone drop and fall back into coverage. Very instinctive with outstanding football intelligence - quick to feel pressure, read hats and locate the ball. Solid character. Highly respected team leader. Stood out at the Senior Bowl. Registered a 35-inch vertical jump and better shuttle times than any defensive tackle at the Combine. Extremely tough and durable.
Negatives: Does not have ideal body length for a five-technique. Does not show elite lower-body explosion and quick-twitch movement. Needs to develop a wider array of counter moves to free himself up and can be hung up on the line of scrimmage too much. Bench-pressed 225 pounds only 21 times (although he plays stronger). Average outside pass rusher.
Summary: Strong, stoutly built, high-energy, athletic defender with the versatility to play anywhere in a “30” or “40” front and could be a terrific mismatch piece for a creative defensive mind. Was not used to penetrate inside much in college, but could be an explosive three-technique in the pros. Could become an outstanding pro if paired with the right coach and should be very attractive to the Jets, Ravens and Patriots.
NFL projection: Top-50 pick.
9. DLE-OLB Corey Wootton
Northwestern senior
Ht: 6-6 | Wt: 270 | Sp: 4.8e | Arm: 34 3/4 | Hand: 10 1/4
Notes: Played high school ball at New Jersey’s famed Don Bosco Prep, where he won two state titles. Had a broken wrist his junior year. Saw limited action in three games at Northwestern before a neck injury shelved him for the 2005 season. Was granted a medical hardship. Started all 12 games at left end in ’06, recording 51 tackles, nine for loss and 4 1/2 sacks with one pass batted down, two interceptions, one forced fumble and a blocked kick. Moved to right end in ’07 and started 11-of-12 games, notching 39-7-1 with five passes batted down, one interception and a blocked kick. Sustained a hip flexor against Ohio State and did not start against Eastern Michigan (coach’s decision). Started all 13 games at right end in ’08, registering 42-16-10 with one batted pass, one interception and a forced fumble. Suffered a torn ACL in his right knee in the Alamo Bowl and underwent surgery in mid-January ’09. Sat out spring practice and was not 100 percent at the beginning of the season. Played in all 13 games (11 starts) in ’09, producing 21-6-4 with one forced fumble and a blocked kick. Sprained his right ankle against Purdue and was limited for most of October, missing starts against Miami (Ohio) and Michigan State. Did not run at the Combine, as he was nursing a left quad injury.
Positives: Looks every bit the part - has an athletic build with the wingspan of a condor. Has a frame to support added bulk. Good anchor strength to defend the run - can stack and shed. Good movement skills and athletic ability. Good balance. Moved very well laterally with agility to flatten down the line and close on the ball prior to his knee injury. Smart, tough and hardworking. Solid character. Showed glimpses of his junior form (see momentum-changing strip-sack against Iowa).
Negatives: Ordinary first-step quickness and quick-twitch. Not a natural pass rusher - spins in place, lacks creativity and does not collapse the pocket. Not a great hand technician - does not free himself and gain ground at the top of his rush. Short-step, heel runner. Is too often caught flat-footed and does not play with a lot of foot energy or change direction fluidly. Bench-pressed 225 pounds only 20 times at the Combine. Durability needs to be evaluated.
Summary: Did not return to full strength as a senior when he clearly looked less explosive and his production dropped significantly but did show the toughness to battle through the injury. Planted tentatively and clearly could not cut. Evaluators will have to revisit Wootton’s 2008 tape, but he compares to Giants DL Chris Canty(notes) when healthy and has the size, strength and arm length to fit as a 3-4 end or 4-3 base end with versatility to rush from the inside. Is light enough on his feet to even warrant a try as an outside linebacker in a traditional “30” front such as that of the Dolphins, Chiefs or Browns. Spring workouts will determine his draft value. Could turn out to be a tremendous value pick if he returns to junior form. Has starter potential.
NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.
10. 3T Brian Price
UCLA junior
Ht: 6-1 1/8 | Wt: 303 | Sp: 5.14 | Arm: 32 1/4 | Hand: 9 1/2
Notes: Godfather, Brian Shaw, is a 15-year NBA veteran and current Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach. Price, who grew up in the crime-infested Crenshaw district of Los Angeles where two of his brothers were murdered in a four-year span, was a highly recruited Parade All-American. As a true freshman in 2007, he missed fall camp and the first three games of the season while waiting for clearance from the NCAA. Upon returning to the field, started 5-of-10 games played and managed 14 tackles, seven for loss and one sack with one pass batted down and two forced fumbles. In ’08, started all 12 games, registering 35-14-4 1/2 with one batted pass, one interception, a forced fumble and a blocked kick. Also was occasionally used as a blocking fullback. Started all 13 games in ’09, totaling 48-23 1/2-7 with one pass batted down and two forced fumbles. Did not run shuttles at the Combine because of calf cramps.
Positives: Squarely built with a strong upper body (bench-pressed 225 pounds 34 times at the Combine). Quick-footed and very agile for his size. Explodes off the snap and re-establishes the line of scrimmage. Rips under blocks and powers through double-teams. Flashes great power in his hands to press, shed and control blockers. Strong bull rush with short powerful steps to cave the pocket. Heavy hitter - swallows ballcarriers. Also kicked outside in odd fronts. Has a chip on his shoulder, having overcome a lot of adversity in his life.
Negatives: Short, smooth-muscled body that limits his stamina - tires easily and taps out of too many plays. Selfish. Immature. Needs to improve core strength - is too top-heavy and lacks anchor strength to hold the point vs. double-teams. Has gut power and will never be a good pass rusher - sack production came in clumps against marginal offensive lines. Tends to play too tall and gets washed. Lacks pass-rush variety and does not use his hands well. Lets his feet stall and is not relentless in pursuit. Does not flatten, break down and change direction well and is best limited to a short area.
Summary: Compactly built penetrator who was very productive despite not playing at an optimum conditioning level and sitting out a significant number of snaps when winded. Shows big-time flashes when his battery is charged and has potential as a penetrating three-technique with enough power to slide over the nose in a slanting, one-gap scheme. A pit bull who will be best playing in gaps.
NFL projection: Top-50 pick.