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2013 Draft
Outside Linebackers
This page will be a work in
progress and updated frequently. Come back often and watch
it develop. |
*Jarvis Jones |
OLB |
1 |
Georgia |
rJr |
6020 |
245 |
1st |
BRS (Gollin) -
Medics reportedly cleared him
(Stenosis), but I'd consider him a bit medically risky to
take him as high as #7. Didn't do combine drills.
Pre-Combine
Forty - 4.74.
Combine - Forty: DNP. Ten: DNP. Reps: DNL. VJ: DNP. BJ: DNP
20S: DNP. 60S: DNP. 3C: DNP.
Pro Day (Brandt) - Jones — who
chose not to work out at
the combine (which
didn’t help alleviate concerns
over health)
— ran the 40 in 4.92 seconds on each of his runs. He had a
30 1/2-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-3 broad jump. He did
the short shuttle in 4.69 seconds and the three-cone drill
in 7.43 seconds. He also performed 20 strength lifts. Jones
worked out as both an outside linebacker and defensive end
at the pro day. There is sentiment that Jones’ best position
in the NFL might be as a pass-rushing defensive end.
Jarvis Jones didn't help self at
UGA's pro day, running two 4.92 40s. Worked out at rush OLB
and DE.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Elite
playmaker off the edge….explosive burst to complement very
good timing to consistently cross the face of offensive
tackles and get them backpedaling. Enough flexibility to dip
under their reach and close on the quarterback, with strong
hands and an eye for ripping the ball free for the sack and
forced fumble. Stronger than he looks and has an effective
bull-rush. Also uses this strength to be surprisingly
effective in setting the edge despite routinely giving up
70-plus pounds to opponents. Locates the ball quickly and
pursues with passion. Athletic enough to drop back into
coverage.
Size limitations - impressive
build but not much room for additional mass. Relies an awful
lot on speed, uses few complementary pass rush moves.
Diagnosed with spinal stenosis ( which has led some notable
NFL players to abruptly end their careers). Compared To: Von
Miller - not quite as explosive off the snap or as reliable
an open-field tackler as Miller but he's close. Medical
concerns are frightening but make no mistake, he’s a Pro
Bowl talent whose impact in the NFL would be immediate.
|
*Alec Ogletree |
OLB |
2 |
Georgia |
Jr |
6024 |
242 |
1st |
BRS (Gollin) - Elite potential,
but substance abuse suspension and inconsistent tackling do
raise a couple of red flags. Not real fast or explosive.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.63.
Combine - Forty: 4.70. Ten: 1.60 Reps: 20. VJ: 33.5 BJ:
10-2. 20S: 4.39. 60S: DNP. 3C: 7.16. Pro Day Forty: 4.64
with wind.
Pro Day (Brandt) - Ogletree ran
the 40 in 4.64 seconds with the wind and 4.75 seconds
against the wind. He had a 4.57-second short shuttle and a
7.11-second three-cone drill. He also performed 18 strength
lifts. His best NFL position is probably as a weak-side
linebacker.
PFW
Audibles - "...moves like a DB
playing linebacker. He's fast, quick and athletic. He moves
like a gazelle. He has run into trouble off the field and is
going to need things kept simple, but I would like to have
him."
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Former
safety with terrific range and athleticism, making plays all
over the field - often the best player on a defense loaded
with NFL talent. Terrific quickness around the edge, capable
of making stops in the backfield and is fast in pursuit.
Doesn't shy from making the big hit. Arrives with deceiving
power and violent intentions. Lengthy frame, athleticism and
experience in coverage. Has the long arms scouts like from
linebackers. Excellent special teams player with terrific
ball skills (leaped
high to snatch an onside kick vs. LSU).
Needs to be more consistent
filling against the run and tackling with better pad level.
Leaner than ideal frame. Must show greater strength in
disengaging from blockers. Off-field concern following a
four-game suspension in (
substance-abuse). Compared to Sean Weatherspoon -
but needs to play with a little more control.
Frankly, there isn't a more exciting linebacker prospect in
the 2013 draft, but make no mistake about it, the missed
tackles are an issue, which if not corrected, will give
Ogletree some Aaron Curry-like bust potential as well.
|
Khaseem Greene |
OLB |
3 |
Rutgers |
rSr |
6006 |
241 |
2nd |
BRS (Gollin) - Saw him a lot in
college. Has elite playmaking skills. Turnover machine. A
bit short at 6-1. Not real fast or athletic for an outside
guy.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.64.
Combine - Forty: 4.71. Ten: 1.62. Reps: 17. VJ: 30.0. BJ:
9-8. 20S: 4.20. 60S: 11.87. 3C: 7.58.
Pro Day (Brandt) - Greene ran the
40 in 4.70 and 4.71 seconds, and had a 34-inch vertical
jump. He stood on the rest of his
numbers from the combine.
Greene also had a good positional workout.
PFW
Audibles - "(he's) not
instinctive. All the plays he makes are schemed. He is not
as good as his stats say. I charted his production and it
wasn't what they said it was. Syracuse was bugging him so
bad he got a personal foul in the first quarter because he
punched the guy. They have to show him where to line up. He
digests everything. He's not tough...I know a lot of
(scouts) who love him. He has bust written all over
him."
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Rare
athleticism for the position. Has the agility and
straight-line speed to elude blockers and beat backs to the
edge. Improved patience and awareness in his second season
at LB, rarely taking false steps and exploding towards the
ball. Reliable open-field tackler, generally wrapping both
arms around the ballcarrier. Best trait might be his
incredible ability to create turnovers. Rips violently at
the ball as he makes tackles, using excellent hand-eye
coordination and impressive strength. Times his blitz well,
with a quick burst to close. Fluid in coverage due to his
experience at safety / good ball skills. Some natural
open-field running skills once the ball is in his hands.
Good bloodlines. ( half-brother of RB Ray Graham). Special
teamer. Obvious size limitations. Not just short; possesses
a rocked-up frame that won’t be able to handle much
additional weight.
Can get lost in
traffic in tight quarters. A bit inconsistent in his
overall physicality. Prefers to slip by blockers rather than
take them on. Sometimes spends too much time going for the
strip, rather than the secure tackle. (Broken ankle in
2011). Compared to Ernie Sims -
great speed,
explosiveness and playmaking ability, but, his size
limitations may eventually catch up with him.
|
Arthur Brown |
OLB |
4 |
Kansas State |
rSr |
6000 |
241 |
2nd |
BRS (Gollin) - Athletic,
effort-guy. Didn't do drills. Like Green, a bit short and light. But other
than that, is considered virtually "risk-free."
Pre-Combine
Forty - 4.62.
Combine - Forty: DNP. Ten: DNP. Reps: DNL. VJ: DNP. BJ: 9-8.
20S: DNP. 60S: DNP. 3C: DNP.
Pro Day (Brandt) -
He was a very, very productive linebacker in college and one
of the top tacklers in the nation. Brown ran the 40-yard
dash in 4.67 and 4.68 seconds. He recorded a 32 1/2-inch
vertical jump, a 4.31-second shuttle drill, a 7.07-second
three-cone drill and performed 21 reps of 225 pounds.
PFW
Audibles - "(he's) too small for
us. He's got to be a run-around guy that's always protected.
If you get a body on him, he's done. He's active and makes a
lot of plays."
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Instinctive,
physical defender who (other than his lack of ideal size)
ranks among the surest prospects in the 2013 draft.
Excellent key and diagnosis skills. Often takes his initial
step toward where the play is designed to go before the QB
has finished taking the snap. Explosive, active hands to
quickly slip blocks and plays with excellent leverage,
bending at the knees to consistently get under the pads of
would-be blockers. Very good balance to avoid cut blocks and
when knocked to the ground; remarkably quick in popping back
up. Very good sideline to sideline speed, which could allow
him to remain ILB in the NFL. Drops back into coverage
fluidly, demonstrating not only the athleticism but the
awareness to handle this responsibility. Times his blitz
well with the snap, showing the flexibility to slip past
blockers, flatten out and close on the quarterback.
Obvious size concerns, (though he
plays much bigger than he looks). Tends to take on blocks
with alternating shoulders, putting him in excellent
position to slip off and make tackles but may also
jeopardize his long-term health,
considering his
relative lack of size. Stands out on tape for his size,
physicality and open-field tackling, but hasn't produced
like a playmaker (posting three career interceptions and not
a single forced fumble). Struggles while at Miami open up
concerns about how well he'll handle the jump to an NFL team
further from home. Compared to Curtis Lofton - plays bigger
than he looks and will quickly prove himself to be a vacuum
tackler in the NFL, but will have to cause more turnovers if
he is to emerge as one of the elite at the position.
|
John Simon |
OLB |
5 |
Ohio State |
Sr |
6010 |
257 |
2nd |
BRS (Gollin) –
Seems like a keeper, but his size and
speed make him seem best suited for the inside. Didn't
do drills. ASFN Favorite.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.76.
Combine - DNP.
Pro Day (Brandt) - Not listed
among participants.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Has
a motor that never quits - extremely relentless & one of the
best attacking defenders in college football. Strong upper
body to swat and use his limbs to beat blocks with the
natural power and forceful playing style to keep blockers
off balance and shed. Adept at setting the edge against the
run and takes on blocks destructively, staying disciplined
with excellent recognition skills. Takes aggressive angles
in the run game and doesn't play hesitant, trusting his eyes
and reacting in a flash. He tackles through
the ballcarrier with
strong wrists and
hands to secure stops, rarely missing tackles. Good
short-area quickness with good snap anticipation and dip off
the edge to bend around the tackle and gain a step on
blockers.
Plays every snap as if it's his
last and doesn't know how to go half speed, playing
motivated and focused. Smart, heady player to make impact
plays against the run and pass, getting his hands up at LOS.
A two-year captain and there isn't a lot he hasn't seen.
Closes quickly and plays with excellent pursuit on defense
and special teams coverage. Has also played both DLE and
DRE, standing up and with his hand in the dirt… also moved
inside to DT at times.
Almost too bulked up, limiting his
fluidity. Lacks ideal arm length, making it tough for him to
disengage at times. More of a one-speed rusher and
consistently explosed, lacking creativity as an edge rusher.
Struggled to cover RBs/TEs
in one-on-one
coverage at the Senior Bowl, lacking the natural hip
movement or footwork to quickly adjust and blanket his man.
Plays too energetic at times and will wear himself out due
to his relentless attitude. He’ll
tak overaggressive angles must control his intensity
to avoid penalties. (Minor right knee injury (at end of
2012). Compared with Allen Bailey -
It's tough to find an
exact comparison for Simon, but Bailey comes close with his
muscular frame, quick feet and relentless attitude. Simon
isn't as big as Bailey (285 pounds), but he's just as
strong.
|
Chase Thomas |
OLB |
6 |
Stanford |
rSr |
6030 |
244 |
2nd-3rd |
BRS (Gollin) - The 4.91 forty
seems below the thresshold for an OLB. He may be better
inside. Unspectacular but
sound, smart and reliable. Many guys who fit that profile
and aren't quite smart enough or athletic enoughfade off
into the sunset. But when they are smart enough and good
enough, they can occupy an outside spot and lead your
football team for a decade. Plus - You have to like Thomas'
size.
Combine - Forty: 4.91. Ten: 1.64. Reps: 18. VJ: 32.0.
BJ: 9-5. 4.31. 20S: 60S: DNP. 3C: 7.17.
Pro Day
(Brandt)
— Thomas ran the 40 in 4.80 and
4.85 seconds, did 21 lifts on the bench, and stood on the
rest of his
numbers from the combine. Thomas moves well, but lacks the
all-out great speed required at linebacker.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
His
impact was felt way past the box score with his constant
disruption of the pocket and against the run. In
loss to Notre Dame, he was extremely active with
stunts and pressures, attacking from different angles and
directions. Used strong hands and wrists to stack and shed
quickly to keep blockers off balance. He’s tough to contain
because of his energetic playing style and quick feet to
avoid blockers, using arm-over technique to gain leverage
and break through LOS. Thomas plays disciplined with a high
football IQ. Although he isn’t naturally explosive or a
quick-twitch pass rusher, he plays fast and hard with
controlled aggression and goes at full speed any time he’s
on the field.
|
Brandon Jenkins |
OLB |
7 |
Florida State |
Sr |
6020 |
251 |
2nd-3rd |
BRS (Gollin) - Nice size/speed/strength.
Only lifted at combine - didn't do other drills.
Designated pass rusher with questionable toughness
especially vs. the run,
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.69.
Combine - Forty: DNP.Ten: DNP. Reps: 30. VJ: DNP. BJ: DNP.
20S: DNP. 60S: DNP. 3C: DNP. Pro Day Forty: 5.07.
Pro Day (Brandt) -
He ran the 40-yard dash in 5.07
and 5.09 seconds but but kept his vertical and broad jump
from the combine. He ran the short shuttle drill in 4.48
seconds and the three-cone drill in 7.40 seconds. Jenkins
recorded 19 strength lifts. He is a player who was pretty
good two years ago but has not been the same since.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Long,
lanky build with room for additional muscle. Explosive first
step off the snap, which quickly can put the offensive
tackle on his heels. Closes quickly and can provide an
explosive pop due to the momentum he gains. Good flexibility
to dip under the reach of the tackle. Creates good torque
around the edge, with rare speed and closing ability. Rare
straight-line speed /can scrape the line of scrimmage,
chasing ball-carriers from behind. Used almost exclusively
as a pass rusher, though he was occasionally asked to drop
into coverage on zone blitz packages. Enough lateral agility
and flexibility to handle this transition, if necessary.
Long arms and at least moderate upper body strength to
execute drag-down tackles.
Questionable instincts as a LB- convert. Moderate
recognition of misdirection plays / screens and draws.
Relies on his quickness to zip past the offensive tackle and
beat backs to the edge against wide running plays.
Simply lacks the bulk and strength
to hold up against the run at this time. Plays with at least
adequate leverage, but is easily moved off the ball. Was
often run at directly on power running plays. Not a
naturally explosive hitter and doesn't use his hands well
enough, at this time. Forced just two fumbles and deflected
just four passes in 40 career games. Adept at slapping away
the offensive tackle's initial punch, but hasn't yet shown a
consistent swim or rip move (though there’s an undeniable
upside in this area), but is currently a one-trick speed
rusher. Compared to Robert Mathis -- like the Colts'
pass-rusher, Jenkins' greatest asset is his speed off the
edge. But to be his most effective, he'll likely need a
second pass rusher to complement him. But he could prove
quite effective, especially for a team protecting a lead.
|
Sean Porter |
OLB |
8 |
Texas A&M |
Sr |
6012 |
229 |
2nd-3rd |
BRS (Gollin) - Athletic, but a bit
finessy and undisciplined. Not fast for an outside guy.
Didn't do agility drills.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.65.
Combine - Forty: 4.75. Ten: 1.63. Reps: 22. VJ: 35.0.
BJ: 9-11. 20S: DNP. 60S: DNP. 3C: DNP.
Pro Day (Brandt) - Porter ran the
40-yard dash in 4.65 and 4.63 seconds. He had a 4.40-second
short shuttle time and a 7.29-second three-cone drill. He
stood on the rest of his
numbers from the combine.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Athletic,
well-defined frame. Versatile defender who can line up in
multiple roles. Burst to beat tackles off the edge as a
rusher and adept at timing the snap as a walk-up blitzer,
showing the burst and ability to "get skinny" to slip
through interior gaps. Best in pursuit to the flanks and
operating in coverage due to his athleticism & impressive
straight-line speed. Good strength to set the edge and
agility to avoid blocks and make tackles in the running
game. Fluid and fast enough to line up over the slot and
handle quick coverage responsibilities (traits that could
earn him a WLB role in a predominantly 4-3 aligned pro team.
Scouts would like to see him play
with greater physicality (too
often relies on his athleticism to beat blockers to the
action rather than taking them on physically). His speed and
flexibility allow him to slip under pass blockers and get to
the quarterback once he's locked up, he
can’t
separate. Generally
reliable open-field tackler but tends to grab and pull down
rather than explode into his opponents. Long legs and
aggression also make him prone to overrun plays, and
creating cut-back lanes for opposing runners. Compared to
Nick Barnett -- a bit of a jack-of-all-trades, master of
none type. However, his size and athleticism, is sure to
draw plenty of admirers on draft day.
|
Jamie Collins |
OLB |
9 |
Southern Mississippi |
Sr |
6034 |
250 |
3rd |
BRS (Gollin) - Great combine
scores. Participated in all the drills. Off the chart
jumping numbers suggest excellent explosion. Nice size, some
athleticism, may lack instincts and consistent motor.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.65.
Combine - Forty: 4.64. Ten: 156. Reps: 19. VJ: 41.5. BJ:
11-7. 20S: 4.32. 60S: 11.55. 3C: 7.10.
Pro Day (Brandt) — Collins stood
on his
numbers from the NFL Scouting Combine (he
was a top performer in his position group in five events).
Collins’ official 40-yard dash time (4.64 seconds) in
Indianapolis is especially notable. Collins worked out as
both a linebacker and defensive lineman with his hand in the
dirt. He’ll have a lot of intrigued teams visit for a
private workout.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Muscular,
athletic-looking frame with powerful hands and long arms.
Accelerates well in a straight line, and exhibits good
flexibility, both coming off the edge as a rusher, as well
as when changing direction in space. Has a knack for getting
to the QB off the edge, with impressive natural power on
contact, and ability to disengage when he uses his hands
effectively. Strong, sudden closing burst in space. Appears
natural and comfortable in his lower half when asked to drop
into zone coverage. When he gets his arms extended at the
POA, he can really manhandle his blocker. Lacks a ton of
short-area burst in space, but uses length nicely to
compensate.
Motor appears to waffle at times.
First step isn't elite. Much more athletic than instinctive
/not a high-intensity, fly-to-the-football defender, despite
possessing some dynamic physical tools. Tends to tackle with
his shoulder too frequently rather than wrapping up, and
will take on blockers with his chest or shoulders. Will
reduce speed & become loose legged when flipping his hips
from a backpedal in man-coverage. Tends to freeze in space
in zone coverage and lose track of what's going on behind
him. Compared to K.J. Wright - is a unique combination of
speed, fluidity and flexibility for his size. But Wright
displayed displayed better all-around instincts and motor.
Right now, Collins looks like a developmental project with
starting-caliber potential if his fundamentals and instincts
can improve.
|
*Jelani Jenkins |
OLB |
10 |
Florida |
rJr |
6000 |
243 |
3rd |
BRS (Gollin) -
Short, but
has elite speed & strength. Aggressive fire-plug type who's become a
sounder tackler. Will have to get stronger to avoid being
manhandled at LOS (the 27 rep figure at the combine suggests
he can do this)..
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.54.
Combine - Forty: DNP. Ten: DNP. Reps: 27. VJ: DNP. BJ: DNP.
20S: DNP. 60S: DNP. 3C: DNP.
Pro Day (Brandt) -
Not written up with attendees.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Compact
build, which makes him stouter than his height might
indicate. Extremely aggressive, especially against the run.
Attacks the LOS with the ability to slip gaps and make
impressive tackles for loss. Great speed to the edge
Explosive hitting ability and generally a good wrap-up
tackler ( though this wasn't always the case in 2012). Good
athleticism in coverage, with the agility and speed to
handle this role in the NFL.
Lacks prototypical size /
frequently nicked up. Attacks the LOS and can get swallowed
up and lose sight of the ball. Inconsistent effort to help
in pursuit. Inconsistent in his ability to get off blocks,
often struggling if his opponent latches on. Must improve
his functional strength in this area to be anything more
than a "chase" linebacker. Compared with Geno Hayes.
|
Travis Long |
OLB |
11 |
Washington State |
Sr |
6-4 |
245 |
3rd-4th |
BRS (Gollin) - Nice size,
questionable speed. Tough run defense skills. Lacks the
explosion you'd like to see from an edge-rushing OLB. Injury
issues.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.76. Combine - Not Listed.
Pro Day (Brandt) - Not invited to
the NFL Scouting Combine — was the best prospect on hand for
the pro day. Long (6-foot-3 3/4, 243 pounds) was unable to
work out, however, due to an ACL surgery hed had on Nov. 21.
As a senior, Long played the “Buck” end/linebacker hybrid
position in the Cougars’ 3-4 base defense.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Highly
instinctive, passionate player with natural pass rush savvy.
Lanky athlete with the frame to add significant muscle mass
and still maintain his quickness. At least adequate initial
quickness off the snap from the three point stance to get
the pass blocker shuffling and has good lateral agility and
flexibility to counter. Possesses long arms to keep the pass
blocker free from his chest-plate and locates the football
quickly, quickly discarding the block to pursuit laterally
and downfield. Surprisingly stout at the point of attack,
showing a good understanding of leverage to hold up, as well
as good agility to twist his way free. Versatile defender
who has lined up as a traditional defensive end, stand-up
pass rusher and asked to drop back into coverage as a 4-3
outside linebacker. Isn't an explosive hitter but wraps his
arms securely for the effective, reliable tackle in space.
Highly durable player who started 47 games for the Cougars.
Classic 'tweener. Lacks the bulk and strength to play DE or
the agility or straight-line speed to be a traditional OLB.
Not explosive off the snap/ makes the majority of his plays
on effort and good vision to locate the ball. UInjury issues
(torn labrum/knee injury).Compared
toKroy Biermann, Falcons -- Just as Biermann did after an
impressive career with the Montana Grizzlies, Long will have
to get bigger and stronger for his instincts and motor to
equate to success in the NFL.
|
Trevardo Williams |
OLB |
12 |
Connecticut |
Sr |
6012 |
241 |
3rd-4th |
BRS (Gollin) - Workout warrior
- Impressive speed,
jumping ability and strength, but lacks all-around LB skills and may be best suited as a
designated pass-rusher. Didn't do agility drills.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.52.
Combine - Forty: 4.57. Ten: 1.61. Reps: 25. VJ: 38.0. BJ:
10-4. 20S: DNP. 60S: DNP. 3C: DNP.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Explosive
athlete with natural edge-rush ability. Extremely quick
get-off to go with flexibility that makes him a consistent
threat to round the edge on every play. Big-time closing
burst in space. Impressive lateral quickness when countering
back to the inside from the edge. May have the best pure
get-off of anyone edge rusher in this year's class.
Relentless motor to the whistle. Can accelerate to track
down the stretch-play from the backside. Consistently
creates space with good arm extension with an impressive
punch to his opponent's chest plate. Makes good use of
flexibility to generate low leverage at the edge. Elite
straight-line speed for an end, and a "plus" in this area
among LB’s.
Under-sized for a traditional
3-point edge rusher, but hasn't shown a lot in terms of
lining up as a traditional linebacker, either. Lacks power
necessary to consistently generate any kind of bull-rush and
is a pure speed rusher who has to rely heavily on his
get-off to make the edge. Will use a secondary move from
time to time, but must continue to develop a repertoire if
he's to consistently contribute pressure at the next level.
Lacks a high level of
awareness / instincts as a run defender and may be a
one-trick pony. Rarely drops back into coverage, so is tough
to grade in space. Compared to Dexter Davis - Williams has
put up some intriguing sack numbers at the college level
despite lacking the size and strength that scouts want to
see in an every-down rusher at the next level. Williams gets
off the ball much better than Davis. Interest should be
strong from a 3-4 team willing to gamble that Williams will
be just as effective rushing from a two-point stance as he
has been with his hand in
the ground. A legitimate double-digit sack threat in the
right system who se upside could be more like Bruce Irvin in
year one.
|
Zaviar Gooden |
OLB |
13 |
Missouri |
rSr |
6014 |
234 |
4th |
BRS (Gollin) - In a thin year for
edge rushers, he may warrant a higher rating. Elite speed for
position. Ran all the drills at the combine and had elite
scores accross the board. Has all the raw athletic skills but very
undeveloped instinct and technique-wise (both tackling and
in coverage).
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.49.
Combine - Forty: 4.47. Ten: 1.53. Reps: 27. VJ: 34.0.
BJ: 10-11. 20S: 4.18. 60S: 11.28. 3C: 6.71.
Pro Day (Brandt) - Gooden
had a 38 1/2-inch vertical jump (4 1/2 inches better than
his NFL Scouting Combine number). He then stood by the rest
of his
numbers from the combine (he
was a top performer in his position group at the combine in
every workout but the vertical). Gooden is a good athlete
with speed. This is a good linebacker prospect.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Lean,
athletic-looking frame and ideal build to play the weak side
at the next level. Extremely explosive in a straight line,
with strong initial burst and elite vertical speed for the
position. Has shown an improved willingness to get physical
at the line and persist through contact.. Quick to close on
his gap against the run with adequate flexibility to
establish low leverage on contact when engaging blockers.
When active with his hands, exhibits quickness and pop to
routinely disengage. Fluid drop in coverage and quick hips
to turn and run with the tight end or slot receiver
vertically.
Still a bit raw in coverage,
flipping his hips in
the wrong direction while anticipating routes. First step
isn't as explosive coming out of a hip flip/transition. Late
to diagnose the run at times. Will take shallow angles on
runs to the outside, and often find himself forced to chase
the play down from behind. Leads with his shoulder and drops
his head when engaging bigger blockers, and doesn't get his
arms extended consistently. Only marginal lateral fluidity /
struggles at times to break down and make tackles in space.
Better in man-coverage than zone right now, as he tends to
lock onto the backfield and lose track of receivers in the
area. Compared to Zach Brown - has rare speed and
explosiveness for his size, but is still learning to utilize
it properly on the football field. Does appear more
instinctive now, and is a more consistent tackler than Brown
was at North Carolina.
|
Gerald Hodges |
OLB |
14 |
Penn State |
Sr |
6010 |
243 |
4th |
BRS (Gollin) - Fits the Penn St.
LB prototype (sound at playing the position) but has
unspectacular speed and a maxed out frame. Didn't do agility
drills at combine.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.74.
Combine - Forty: 4.78. Ten: 1.67. Reps: 22. VJ: DNJ.
BJ: 9-11. 20S: DNP. 60S: DNP. 3C: DNP.
Pro day
(Brandt) -
The linebacker also opted to do only select drills. Hodges
posted a 35-inch vertical, a 4.29 short shuttle and ran the
three-cone drill in 7.27 seconds.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Seeks
out ballcarriers and delivered a physical pop upon contact.
Above average athleticism for the position, with the range
to make plays all over the field and the agility to avoid
blocks and quickly arrive to the play. Added nearly 30
pounds of bulk onto his lean frame since high school, but
doesn't have the body type to get much bigger. Too easily
gets hung up on blocks at POA.
|
Sio Moore |
OLB |
15 |
Connecticut |
rSr |
6006 |
245 |
4th |
BRS (Gollin) - Nice speed, a bit
short, needs to get stronger. Strong jump scores suggest
he's explosive, but agility scores are subpar. .
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.64.
Combine - Forty: 4.65. Ten: 1.62. Reps: 29. VJ: 38.0. BJ:
10-7. 20S: 4.31. 60S: 12.39. 3C: 7.49.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Reads
the action quickly and has the speed to close, making him a
classic 4-3 weak-side linebacker candidate. Versatile
performer in college with good production as a hybrid, not
looking out of place when asked to play in space either
against the run or pass. Moore's competitive drive and
explosive hitting ability were evident in non-contact drills
at the Shrine Game, At his size, Moore will need to continue
to improve his strength in taking on and shedding blocks.
|
Keith Pough |
OLB |
16 |
Howard |
rSr |
6016 |
239 |
4th-5th |
BRS (Gollin) - Impressed at
East-West. Forty time will have to improve for him to be
taken seriously - at least on the outside. Needs to perfect
techniques. Level of competition a concern.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.84.
Combine - Forty: 4.90. Ten: 1.64. Reps: 17. VJ: 33.0. BJ:
9-10. 20S: 4.47. 60S: DNP. 3C: 7.28.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Intensity
and leadership qualities impressed at Shrine Game practices,
playing with a high level of energy. Excellent flexibility
and agility for the position. Stays low with good
fundamentals. Naturally athletic and fluid, with the
coordination and smooth hips to play in space. Lean,
athletic frame/adept at playing balanced and low to the
ground. Nonstop motor /brings constant energy to the field.
Tends to lower his head, keeping his eyes in the wrong
place. Will need to shed concerns over level of competition.
Will need to improve his instincts and get stronger to
improve his stack-and-shed ability.
|
DeVonte Holloman |
OLB |
17 |
South Carolina |
Sr |
6013 |
243 |
5th |
BRS (Gollin) - Decent size,
disappointing
speed. Instinctive, but a bit stiff, lacks good COD skills
and needs to get stronger.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.64.
Combine - Forty: 4.76. Ten: 1.62. Reps: 15. VJ: 33.0. BJ:
9-5. 20S: 4.26. 60S: DNP. 3C: 7.30.
Pro Day (Brandt) -
He ran the 40-yard dash once and
completed it in 4.76 seconds. He recorded a 34-inch vertical
jump and kept the rest of his numbers from the combine. He
had a good workout.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Athletic-looking
frame with a sturdy, thick base and long arms. Strong at
play-recognition and anticipation against the pass.
Diagnoses the run early, and takes good angles to the
football. Anticipates and approaches the gap with good
timing on runs between the tackles. Ample lower body
strength to compensate for lack of flexibility when asked to
hold ground/stack at the second level. Good backfield vision
through traffic. Good instincts and timing when asked to
make a play on the ball in the air. High-motor, aggressive
player who doesn't shy away from making big-time contact.
Lack of flexibility and first-step
explosion hampers his ability to recover or redirect. Lacks
fluidity to turn and run with tight ends or receivers down
the field, without losing a step.Only marginal top-end speed
for the position. Doesn't get his arms extended enough when
taking on blocks, and is too easily driven out of the play.
Pretty stiff laterally. He seems to know what's going on,
but struggles to consistently get there and make the play.
His initial value will probably be best captured as a
special teams contributor, but perhaps a move to the inside
could help to mask some of his limitations in space, and
give him a chance to contribute as a rotational piece down
the road.
|
Lerentee McCray |
OLB |
18 |
Florida |
Sr |
6020 |
250 |
5th |
BRS (Gollin) - Good size, so-so
speed. Solid citizen but may lack elite pass rush skill.
(Then too, Sam Acho sort of fit that profile and then
grew into more of a pass rushing force as a Cardinal).
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.74.
Combine - DNP.
Pro Day (Brandt) -
McCray also opted to wait until
March 22 to do drills.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Athletic
looking frame with thick lower half, and long, muscular
arms. Exhibits good top-end speed and acceleration in space.
Displays strong punch and ability to generate a bull rush
when he establishes low position/leverage. Will spread out
and cover the slot from time to time, and possesses fluid
backpedal in space. Possesses active hands on contact and
flashes good use of long arms to swim back inside as a
rusher. Plays with some physicality and is tough to push
back at the line. Persistent worker on the field who plays
with energy and aggression. Hasn't seemed to drop off in
quickness or speed throughout his college career despite a
substantial weight and muscle.
Inconsistent first step off the
line, and lacks elite explosiveness off the snap as a rush
end. Average change-of-direction ability and agility. Lacks
hip flexibility at the edge to make up for inconsistent
get-off. Uncertain where he fits at the next level; lacks
good experience in space as a traditional linebacker, but
doesn't display a great deal of natural pass-rush ability,
either. Compared to Leroy Hill -
Has natural
athleticism that makes you want to find a spot for him.
Considering the growing need for speed and the number of
teams utilizing 3-4 alignments on defense, McCray could be a
late-round pickup for a team willing to take on a project
with some considerable upside.
|
Meshak Williams |
OLB |
19 |
Kansas State |
Sr |
6-2 |
245 |
5th |
Combine - Not Listed. Pro Day
(Brandt) - Not listed with
other participants. |
Brandon Sharpe |
OLB |
20 |
Syracuse |
Sr |
6-1 |
253 |
5th-6th |
Combine - Not Listed.
Pro
Day (Brandt) - Not listed
with other participants. |
Michael Mauti |
OLB |
21 |
Penn State |
rSr |
6020 |
243 |
5th-6th |
Combine - 28 lifts.
Did not participate in
other combine drills.
Pro Day (Brandt) - Mauti’s pro day
was limited by a prior injury. The linebacker, dealing with
an injured left anterior cruciate ligament, was only weighed
and measured.
|
Etienne Sabino |
OLB |
22 |
Ohio State |
rSr |
6020 |
247 |
6th-7th |
BRS (Gollin) - Nice size,
slower-than expected speed,
but lacks consistency, COD skill and instinctiveness
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.65.
Combine - Forty: 4.75. Ten: 1.66. Reps: 24. VJ: DNP.
BJ: 9-6. 20S: DNP. 60S: DNP. 3C: DNP.
Pro Day (Brandt) - The linebacker
could hear his name called at the NFL draft next month. He
recorded a 34-inch vertical jump and 4.41 time in the short
shuttle.
Based on
NFLDraftScouts -
Athletic frame and flies all over
the field with excellent range and the chase skills to catch
the ballcarrier from behind. Athletic blitzer and is at his
best downhill, working hard to shed blocks with adequate
strength and length. Type of player who lacks the instincts
and consistency to start at the next level, but could be a
late-round pick and core special teams player. Doesn't
break down information quick enough and is routinely forced
to play a step behind, lacking a great feel in coverage. He
won't miss many tackles, but needs to improve his angles and
is too often caught off balance, lacking the lateral burst
to quickly change directions.
|
Cameron Lawrence |
OLB |
23 |
Mississippi State |
Sr |
6-2 |
233 |
6th-7th |
Combine - Not Listed.
Pro
Day (Brandt) - Not listed
with other participants. |
Michael Clay |
OLB |
24 |
Oregon |
Sr |
5-11 |
224 |
7th |
Combine - Not Listed. Pro Day Forty: 4.76.
Pro Day (Brandt) -
Not
at the combine — ran the 40 in 4.77 and 4.76 seconds. He had
a 31 1/2-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-6 broad jump. He
had a 4/17-second short shuttle time and a 6.73-second
three-cone drill. Clay had 23 lifts of 225 pounds on the
bench press. Clay is undersized, height-wise, but shows
great instincts. He is a possible seventh-rounder or rookie
free-agent pickup.
|
John Lotoleilei |
OLB |
19 |
UNLV |
Sr |
6020 |
243 |
5th |
BRS (Gollin) - Decent agility.
4.65 Pro Day forty was more like it, but
I can't believe there are so many OLB's running in the 4.8's
this year.
Pre-Combine Forty - 4.73.
Combine - Forty: 4.84. Ten: 1.58. Reps: 25.VJ: 35.5. BJ:
9-9. 20S: 4.30. 60S: DNP. 3C: 6.91. Pro Day Forty: 4.65.
Pro Day (Brandt) - Lotulelei ran
the 40-yard dash in 4.65 and 4.66 seconds. He recorded a
10-foot-2 broad jump and 4.26 short-shuttle run.
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