James Gayle, Senior, Defensive End, Virginia Tech
Overview:
A consistent force on the defensive line for three years, James Gayle decided to return to school for his senior season. He requested a draft grade from the NFL advisory committee after his junior year but seems to have made a smart decision to return. His third season saw a slight dip in his sack total and it was just an all-around disappointing season for Virginia Tech. Not that it was Gayle's fault. The d-end still received conference honors and is one of the more fearsome ends in the ACC. Gayle is a top level athlete. His senior year now gives him a chance to prove it and add to his 16 career sacks.
Final Projection:
With rushing the quarterback being a top priority at the next level, Gayle's services are in dire need. However, that fact also has linebackers around the country shifting to end for the NFL or showing they can rush the quarterback as well as those defensive linemen can. Gayle has never played linebacker or done any pass coverage to speak of. He will not have the versatility that a rush outside linebacker will. What Gayle brings to the table is consistent, effective quarterback pressure going on four years now in one of the best conferences in the nation. Hopefully that is enough to be considered one of the top dozen or so defensive ends come draft day. A bounce back season for the Hokies as a team couldn't hurt either.
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