CNNSI.com NFL Draft 2002


 
Grading System
Connor Stephens | OLB | Mississippi St. | Southeastern Conference
Height Weight 40 Grade
6'4 256 4.92 3.45
Three-year starter at defensive end. Totaled 61/7/4 as a senior after 69/6/3 the prior year. Posted 57/9/4 as a true sophomore when he also spent time at outside linebacker.

Collegiate defensive end best stood up over tackle. Breaks down well, plays with leverage and fluid moving laterally. Makes plays up and down the line of scrimmage, effective if asked to drop into pass coverage and displays a good head for the ball. Relatively quick in all aspects of his game. Stays on his feet but slow shedding blocks and has difficulty when teams run at him if lined up in a three point stance. Did a solid job in coverage drills during Senior Bowl practices and though he lacks the great forty times, definitely gave the impression he can produce at strong side linebacker on the next level. Mid Seventh Round.

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