Ravens select decorated pass-rusher Jaylon Ferguson

The Baltimore Ravens selected pass-rusher Jaylon Ferguson out of Louisiana Tech in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, 85th overall.

Ferguson wrapped up his NCAA career as the FBS' all-time leader in sacks. He slipped down draft boards, however, after testing poorly in athletic drills.

The Ravens boasted the NFL's top-ranked defense last year but lost several integral cogs in free agency, including edge-rushers Terrell Suggs and Za'Darius Smith.

Smith notched 17.5 sacks last year and recorded 45 over his four-year career.

School: Louisiana Tech
Height: 6-5
Weight: 271 lbs

Strengths

• Very productive college career, led NCAA in sacks last season
• Good size and frame
• Stout at point of attack with strength to create leverage vs. linemen
• Devastating rip move
• Among the best in this class at converting speed to power
• Strong and quick hands rushing the passer

Weaknesses

• Tested poorly athletically, especially in agility drills
• Lacks experience against top-tier competition in college
• Can be swallowed by offensive tackles if first move fails
• Very stiff when changing direction
• Lacks bends, often rushes upright

Bottom line

Ferguson put up eye-popping numbers at Louisiana Tech, but he's an unrefined pass-rusher who may lack the athleticism and movement skills to develop into a Pro Bowl defender. There are certainly things to love about his game, though; the defensive end excelled on all three downs in college and could be a solid mid-round selection.

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