Ronald Powell, Junior, Defensive End, Florida
Overview:
Powell is a big, athletic kid that likes to get after the quarterback. He had nine tackles for loss in 2011. He led the Gator defense with six sacks. Powell has become an integral part of the Gator defense after just two years. He was ranked as high as the #1 defensive end coming out of high school. His production has backed up his high initial billing. At the next level, he would get paid to do what his job is now: keep the play behind the line of scrimmage.
Final Projection:
Powell will need to be big for Will Muschamp’s defense this season, as well as for his own draft stock. He’s a productive player, but can he do enough to build momentum as a first-round draft pick? At 250 pounds he’s a solid linebacker in a 3-4, but using him as a 4-3 linebacker is a question mark. Developing skills in coverage are key to his versatility. He could slip into the first round, but he seems like a solid second rounder at this point.
See All NFL Draft Profiles and Rankings
