Clelin Ferrell

in our view

There may be edge rushers drafted in 2018 with a quicker initial get-off, closing speed or even production but few possess Ferrell's combination of size, burst, strength, instincts and technique. Perhaps best yet, at just 20-years old, Ferrell's best football still should be ahead of him.

strengths

Built like he was cut from a mold for an NFL defensive end with broad shoulders, disproportionately long arms and well-developed musculature, including a thick lower half. Experienced rushing out of the two-point (stand-up) and three point stance, showing good initial quickness off the snap with flashes of explosiveness to cross the face of left tackles on a speed rush, alone. Good balance and flexibility to dip under the reach of would-be pass blockers and incorporates his hands into the rush, slapping away at tackles' reach and showing a very effective up-under rip move to complement his speed. Generates impressive power as a bull rusher, pushing opponents onto their heels with his arms locked out and showing very good leg drive. Coordinated athlete when stalking the ball-carrier, showing enough speed and agility to flush and finish. Only has three passes broken up but shows good awareness of passing lanes and backs slipping behind, selling out with his leaps and, at times, twirling in the air in an effort to bat passes away. Also very effective against the run for a player with his relative inexperience. Understands his containment responsibility and does not rush upfield blindly. Very effective use of his long arms and strong hands to stack and shed at the point of attack, showing impressive technique to attack half the blocker, including when splitting double-teams. Reliable open-field tackler, using his length and strength to grab and pull down ball-carriers, typically wrapping both arms for the secure stop. Intriguing physical upside, especially given that won't turn 21 until a week after the 2018 NFL Draft. - Rob Rang 12/9/2017

compares to

Hall of Famer Chris Doleman, Vikings/Falcons/49ers. Just as Doleman was when initially drafted in the first round by Minnesota back in 1985, Ferrin will be projected by some as an outside linebacker. Also like the 6-5, 270 pound Doleman, Ferrin will ultimately grow into a defensive end role if he is not initially drafted to play it. Both players could win with speed but it was their power, use of hands and instincts which ultimately resulted in most of their success - which Doleman certainly had, as his eight Pro Bowl seasons and 150.5 career sacks (4th in league history at the time of his retirement) can attest.

weaknesses

May be a better football player than athlete, lacking the elite quick-twitch burst to consistently win with his speed rush. Shows normal but not extraordinary acceleration to close or when pursuing from the backside and may not run an impressive 40-yard dash, raising questions about his potential fit as a stand-up linebacker who may be asked to drop into coverage more than just occasionally. Does not always pursue downfield with the reckless abandon coaches would prefer. Needs to do a better job of targeting the ball when going for sacks with only two forced fumbles in 28 career starts. -- Rob Rang 12/9/2017

Attended Benedictine College Preparatory No. 115 player and No. 7 defensive end in the nation and No. 5 player in Virginia by 247Sports.com

No. 135 player and No. 6 defensive end in the nation and No. 5 player in Virginia by Rivals.com

No. 136 player in the nation and No. 5 player in Virginia by ESPN

No. 196 player in the nation by Scout.com

joined Chad Smith as first Tiger signees from Virginia since Tajh Boyd (2009)

Under Armour All-America Game selection, but did not play due to injury

did not play as a senior due to a torn ACL

had 60 tackles, 26 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks as a junior

all-state selection as a junior

played two years of basketball

coached by Greg Lilly

recruited by Marion Hobby and Brent Venables.

Majoring in sports communication

born May 17, 1997.

2018

2017

2016