6’2” – 243 lbs. – 4.80e
STATISTICAL PROFILE:
2011: 80 – 4.5 – 0.0, 1 FF, 2 FR
2012: 138 – 8.5 – 1.0 – 8 QBH – 1 FR, 1 PD (12-21-6 rushing)
OVERVIEW:
Started ten games at middle linebacker as a true freshman, appearing in twelve contests and finishing second on the team in tackles en route to being named an SEC All-Freshman Team selection. In 2012, he started all twelve games for the team, leading his team and conference in tackles and being named to the All-SEC Second Team by conference coaches; also rushed the ball out of Tennessee’s wildcat formation for six touchdowns. Was named to the Preseason All-SEC First Team by conference coaches prior to this year.
STRENGTHS:
• Has plenty of experience, having been a three-year SEC starter.
• Adequate size and bulk for a middle linebacker in a four-man front.
• Frame is thick enough to potentially shift to a three-man front.
• Plays with a low center of gravity and takes on blockers well for size.
• Fights through trash well and can scrape down the line versus the run.
• Powerful hitter who acts as an intimidating presence in the defense.
• Plays with a high motor and will pursue plays farther than anticipated.
• Overall recognition skills help mask some of his athletic deficiencies.
• Can create pressure as an interior blitzer despite just one career sack.
WEAKNESSES:
• Would need to add additional bulk in order to play in a 3-4 defense.
• Not fast enough to recover easily when caught out of position.
• Change-of-direction and lateral agility could become problems.
• Occasionally gets lost in zone coverage, could be exploited in pros.
• Lacks the speed to cover running backs and tight ends in man coverage.
• May not be particularly well-suited to the modern makeup of the NFL.
• Requires some projection schematically, as skills better suit 3-4 defense.
SUMMARY:
Productive, physical linebacker who plays like he belongs in a three-man front but whose college play has been as a 4-3 middle linebacker. Will likely have to bulk up and make the transition due to athletic limitations. RD 4-5
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