Travis Lewis, Senior, Linebacker, Oklahoma
Overview:
Travis Lewis has been a tackling machine for Oklahoma. As a redshirt freshman in 2008, Lewis tallied an amazing 144 tackles. That was good enough to break Brian Bosworth’s record for tackles by a freshman. Adding 11.5 tackles-for-loss, 3.5 sacks and four interceptions, Lewis made just about everybody’s All-Freshman team. Heading into his sophomore campaign, many wondered if he could do it again. He did. Lewis again eclipsed the 100 tackle mark.
After avoiding a sophomore slump, Lewis again broke the 100 tackle plateau in 2010. Lewis also picked off three passes as a junior, boosting his career total to eight. Once again Lewis won plenty of conference accolades for his impressive effort during his junior campaign.
Final Projection:
Lewis flirted with entering the 2011 NFL Draft, but in the end opted to return for his senior season in Norman, Oklahoma. At 6-2 and 232 pounds, Lewis is physically ready for the NFL. He has the speed and instincts to be a superb outside linebacker at the next level. In some defensive schemes he could play inside as well. His decision to return to school should result in a safe first round selection in the 2012 NFL Draft.
1/5/12 Update:
Lewis did not have a great senior season, in part due to a foot injury that sidelined him for the first game. To be fair he toughed it out and probably should have sat a little longer to let the injury heal. The result was an average season. That has dropped his draft stock dramatically, but with time to heal Lewis should be ready to show the scouts why he was once considered a possible first round draft pick.
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