Biography: Two-year starter awarded all-Conference and All-American honors after his junior campaign. Posted 68/10/4 and two interceptions last year. Sophomore totals included 75/6/14.5 and four interceptions.

Positives: "Forceful three-down linebacker with a complete game. Breaks down well, quickly gets his hands up, and holds his ground against blocks. Immediately changes direction or alters his angle of attack, displays speed moving laterally and has ability in pursuit. Plays with good quickness, can turn it on a single step and makes a lot of athletic plays on the field. Remains disciplined with assignments and shows good awareness and playing balance. Occasionally lines up in a three-point stance, playing with good pad level and displays speed off the edge. Fluid moving in reverse, shows skill in coverage, and even has the ability to play over the slot receiver."

Negatives: Does not play with a sense of urgency. Possesses just a marginal burst. Occasionally gets caught up in traffic. Timed poorly at the combine.

Analysis: "Ayers has been very productive the past three seasons defending the run, rushing the passer, and playing in coverage. He lacks classic speed for an outside linebacker but has all the skills necessary to start in a variety of defensive systems."

Projection: 1st