2016 NFL Draft: Famous Idaho Potato Bowl

Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Akron

#1 OLB Jatavis Brown (5’11 | 222 | 4.52)

The MAC defensive player of the year, who led his team in tackles with 108, tackles for loss with 17.5, and sacks with 10.5. Brown also added three forced fumbles and an interception. He did a little bit of everything for the Zips and has the skill and versatility to contribute as a pass rusher, run defender, and defensive back.

His instincts and athleticism will get Brown drafted at some point, but if he’s going to get any serious playing time in the NFL he may have to move to strong safety. Though with teams playing 2 LB formations more often to stop the pass, Brown could find a role as a coverage LB like how the Bears use rookie LB Jonathan Anderson. After watching a little tape on Brown, I would love to see the Bears take a late round flyer on him as either a coverage ILB or teamed with rookie Adrian Amos at safety.

Projection: 6th-7th round

#3 ILB Darryl Monroe (6’1 | 235 | 4.72)

Transfer from Washington St who had three above seasons for the Cougars before a somewhat mediocre seasons at Akron. He still finished with 78 tackles and four TFLs, but wasn’t as impactful as he was in the Pac12 earlier in his career. Monroe still has the size, strength and athleticism to get a shot at the next level, but I think it will probably be as an undrafted free agent.

Projection: 7th round – FA

Next: Utah State