Clinton McDonald SELECTED BY: Bengals Round 7 (40)

SI Grade 3.40 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Three-year starter awarded all-Conference honors as a senior after posting 39/7.5/7. Junior numbers included 55/9.5/4.

POSITIVES: Explosive gap penetrating defensive tackle who plays with great intensity. Possesses terrific first step quickness, plays with good pad level, and gets leverage on opponents. Pushes his way up the field, flashes power in his lower body, and stays with the action. Slides down the line to make plays on the ball carrier and rarely off his feet. Tenacious and goes hard until the whistle blows. Helps out on special teams.

NEGATIVES: Handled by a single blocker and can be driven off the line. Marginal skills as a pass rusher.

ANALYSIS: McDonald is strong for his size, yet he lacks the classic measurables to be a starter in the NFL. He possesses the athleticism and build to be used as a backup three technique lineman and should help out as a special teams player.

PROJECTION: Fifth/Sixth Round