John Pickens Grade: 3.15  Position: OLB  Class: Sr  School: Northwestern  Conference: Big Ten  Ht., Wt.: 6-1.5, 243  40 Time: 4.81   Grading System

BIO: Three-year starter who posted 63/6/5 as a senior. Experienced special teams player who.s also been used at inside linebacker. POSITIVES: Forceful, run-defending linebacker best in the box. Breaks down well, slides off blocks and gets to the ball handler. Wraps up at the point of attack bringing opponents down, yet at the same time hard hitting and packs a wallop. Gets adequate depth on drops and solid awareness in zone. Displays a burst of speed. NEGATIVES: Does not consistency play smart football and takes himself out of the action. Not fast to the flanks. Overall game lacks explosion and suddenness. ANALYSIS: Possessing adequate size/speed numbers, Pickens has potential as an inside linebacker in a 34 defense or on the outside in a conventional scheme. May never be a starter at the next level yet could be an inexpensive backup and solid special teams player. PROJECTION: Undrafted Free Agent