Darius Fleming, Senior, Linebacker, Notre Dame
Overview:
Most teams in college run a 4-3 defense, but that is not the case with Notre Dame. Darius Fleming’s experience as a pass rushing outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme will make him an attractive option to some NFL teams. Fleming started off strong during his freshman campaign, tallying 24 tackles, 2.5 tackles-for-loss and 2.5 sacks. He only earned three starts, but Fleming was part of the regular linebacker rotation and saw plenty of action on special teams.
In 2009 Fleming spent time at both the outside linebacker and defensive end spots. He was still not a full-time starter, but Fleming did a fine job disrupting the opposing backfield and totaled 12.0 tackles-for-loss and 3.0 sacks. Fleming diversified his game in 2010. Asked to do more than be a specialized pass rusher, he increased his tackle total dramatically and was more involved in pass coverage. Fleming still caused plenty of havoc in the backfield though, leading the Irish with 11.0 tackles-for-loss and 6.0 sacks.
Final Projection:
Fleming is not as quick as some 6-2, 247 pound rush linebackers, but he has enough speed to usually get the job done. Generally he will need to use his strength to get into the backfield. His versatility and experience in a 3-4 defense should help his draft stock, but he needs to have a good senior season to keep working his way up the draft boards.
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