Biography: Moved into the starting lineup as a senior and posted career-best numbers of 64 tackles/13 tackles for loss/6.5 sacks. Also intercepted one pass and broke up five more. Junior totals included 21/2/4, when he was used primarily as a backup.

Positives: Terrific football player with a developing game. Competitive, intense and works hard throughout the action. Flashes the ability to split double team blocks, fluid dropping off the line of scrimmage and chases the action attempting to make a play. Plays hard and will play injured. Gets off the snap with a good first step, effectively uses his hands and violently hits blockers to come free. Bends his knees, breaks down well and makes plays in a variety of ways. Instinctive and remains disciplined with assignments.

Negatives: Lacks natural bulk and can be controlled by a single blocker. Undersized and lacks edge speed.

Analysis: Francis really stepped up his game last season as a solid all-around player. His competitiveness is infectious, and Francis will help a team at the next level on defense and special teams.

Projection: 5-6