Ladarius Webb SELECTED BY: Ravens Round 3 (24)

SI Grade 3.59 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Southern Mississippi transfer who's been a two-year starter at Nicholls State, winning All-America and all-conference honors after each season. Senior totals included 55/2/7 in nine games. Averaged 15.2 yards on 10 punt returns, with one score as a senior. Junior numbers included 51/5/8 when he also averaged 26.7 yards on 22 kick returns.

POSITIVES: Instinctive defensive back who plays smart football. Outstanding communicator who leads the secondary and gets his teammates in proper position. Quick up the field to defend the run, squares into ball carriers, and wraps up tackling. Displays a nice burst of straight-line speed. Possesses a sense of timing in coverage and shows good hands for the pick.

NEGATIVES: Possesses just average ball skills, speed, and usually a half-step late arriving on the scene in coverage. Marginal skills when placed over the slot receiver. Lacks the great size for a safety.

ANALYSIS: Webb has been a productive college safety, but his size and speed dictate a move to cornerback in the NFL. He's best suited as a dime back in a zone system, yet Web must make an impact on special teams, an area where he was productive in college.

PROJECTION: Fourth Round