Ravens select decorated pass-rusher Jaylon Ferguson
The Baltimore Ravens selected pass-rusher Jaylon Ferguson out of Louisiana Tech in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, 85th overall.
Ferguson wrapped up his NCAA career as the FBS' all-time leader in sacks. He slipped down draft boards, however, after testing poorly in athletic drills.
The Ravens boasted the NFL's top-ranked defense last year but lost several integral cogs in free agency, including edge-rushers Terrell Suggs and Za'Darius Smith.
Smith notched 17.5 sacks last year and recorded 45 over his four-year career.
Prospect profile
School: Louisiana Tech
Height: 6-5
Weight: 271 lbs
Strengths
- Very productive college career, led NCAA in sacks last season
- Good size and frame
- Stout at point of attack with strength to create leverage vs. linemen
- Devastating rip move
- Among the best in this class at converting speed to power
- Strong and quick hands rushing the passer
Weaknesses
- Tested poorly athletically, especially in agility drills
- Lacks experience against top-tier competition in college
- Can be swallowed by offensive tackles if first move fails
- Very stiff when changing direction
- Lacks bends, often rushes upright
Bottom line
Ferguson put up eye-popping numbers at Louisiana Tech, but he's an unrefined pass-rusher who may lack the athleticism and movement skills to develop into a Pro Bowl defender. There are certainly things to love about his game, though; the defensive end excelled on all three downs in college and could be a solid mid-round selection.