Zach Brown, Senior, Linebacker, North Carolina
Overview:
When Zach Brown came to North Carolina he was considered a speedster who had to grow into a football player. It took a few years, but Brown is now a big time football player with a very bright future in the NFL. As a true freshman he rarely saw the field. As a sophomore Brown lost his starting job after six games, but still took the next step and tallied 47 tackles on the year.
It was in 2010 when Brown finally got the opportunity to stay in the starting lineup and be a leader of the UNC defense. Due to suspensions and injuries, the Tar Heels did not have many other options. But Brown was ready to take on a much bigger role and ended the year second on the team with 72 tackles.
Final Projection:
Brown’s greatest asset is his speed. He has been clocked running a 4.28 40-yard-dash. If he can do that at the NFL Combine, he will not have to wait long to hear his name called on draft day. Brown is not much of a pass rusher, but he does do a fine job using his speed to blanket opposing receivers. Brown simply does not have the strength to be a pass rushing linebacker, but few players can cover as much ground and get to the ball as quickly as the Columbia, Maryland product.
1/5/12 Update:
Brown got better across the board during his senior season. He put up some great numbers, making plays in the backfield and back in the secondary. He is emerging as a pretty safe first round talent. Brown can do everything and will make a great outside linebacker in a 4-3 defense in the NFL. Brown is expected to measure out quite well at the NFL Combine and that should lead to a first round selection in the 2012 NFL Draft.
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