Houston Texans Draft Focus: Inside Linebacker

Dec 28, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Louisville Cardinals running back Dominique Brown (10) is hit by Miami Hurricanes linebacker Denzel Perryman (52) during the Russell Athletic Bowl at Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

Denzel Perryman – Miami (Florida)

Height: 5’11     Weight: 236

2014: 110 tackles, 9.5 TFL, 0 sacks, 1 INT, 3 FF

Coming into 2014, Denzel Perryman was considered to be the top player at his position, but has since slipped due to his smaller than desired size. While he may be smaller than usual, this kid can hit like a truck. Permian is a superb run stopper, who will punish runners with more force than you would expect from a sub-6 ft defender. He has fantastic instincts, and has even shown success playing in zone defense. His biggest knock is that he is lacking in agility, which, along with his size, will hurt him in man coverage. Talent-wise, he’s a first round pick, but his size will probably push him down in the draft.

Draft Grade: High Round 2

Next: SEC Guy With Great Size