Scouting Report: ILB, Reggie Ragland

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Alabama’s old-school hard hitting inside linebacker is an elite prospect who will be a day one starter in the NFL. Reggie Ragland is a premier run-stopper with exceptional football instinct and IQ.

Reggie Ragland | Linebacker, Alabama

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Measurements

Height: 6’1”
Weight: 247 pounds
Year: Senior

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At First Glance

SEC Defensive Player of the Year.
Numerous All-American Honors.
BCS National Championship 2015.

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Projected Round:

First Round

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Pros

Has the power and size to stack and shed blocks.

Aggressive and talented playing downhill against the run.

Great instinct, knows where the ball is going and can strike with force.

Understands pursuit angles and is a sure tackler.

Only three missed tackles this season.

Can step into the hole and challenge a lead blocker.

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Cons

Not an elite athlete.

Needs to improve in zone pass coverage.

Only average arm length (32″).

Not an explosive pass rusher.

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NFL Player Comparison:

E.J. Henderson, Minnesota Vikings

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The Vikings Slant

Vikings fit? Yes

The Vikings may not have many holes to fill on the defensive side of the ball, but stopping the run is one area that should be addressed.
Linebacker Audie Cole was re-signed to a one year deal after fracturing his ankle and finishing the season on IR in 2015. His production and potential has dropped off over the last two seasons under head coach Mike Zimmer. The depth chart behind Eric Kendricks at middle linebacker is a problem that could be addressed in the draft. Cole is not the answer and could very well find himself on the cut bubble. Greenway can play middle linebacker in a pinch but is set to retire after the season. Fans love the flashy play of LB Darron Lee, but he is no help in the middle. Ragland to the Vikings may not be a fan favorite pick, but he addresses some very specific needs.

Ragland was voted the SEC defensive Player of the Year in 2015. His physicality, size and instinct make him one of the best run-stoppers in the draft. He is a punishing hitter with outstanding pursuit ability and great fundamentals. Ragland’s active feet, good burst and great vision help enable him to close quickly on plays.

GM Rick Spielman has said that the 23rd pick is wide open. Best player available could very well be the plan of attack. Ragland, if he falls, represents a great fit. Zimmer could plug and play Ragland in the middle of the base unit to help stop the run. Kendricks would move to weak side line backer when Ragland’s on the field. In passing situations Kendricks would slide over to play the “Mike” in nickel.[/vc_column_text]

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