Sean Spence NFL Draft Profile

Sean Spence, Senior, Linebacker, Miami

 Overview:

Linebacker Sean Spence burst onto the national scene as a true freshman in 2008. He ended up third on the team with 65 total tackles and added 9.5 tackles-for-loss, 2.0 sacks and three pass break-ups. While those are very impressive numbers for a freshman at <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 />Miami, it was Spence’s big play ability that made his freshman season so memorable. Spence’s first career interception resulted in a touchdown against rival Florida State and he forced a fumble late in a victory over Virginia. As a result, Spence was named to just about everybody’s All-Freshman team and earned the conference’s Defensive Rookie of the Year award.

Spence followed up his impressive freshman campaign with what is best described as a sophomore slump. Battling injuries and missing three games, Spence tallied just 36 tackles, 6.5 tackles-for-loss and 3.0 sacks. Spence got back to his old ways in 2010 and has proven that 2008, not 2009, is his norm.

Final Projection:

Spence is generously listed as 6-0 and is likely closer to 5-10 than 6-0. He has good speed and instincts and will always be around the ball, but NFL teams may want to see him have two good seasons in a row before they take a chance on him. With his size and ability in coverage, Spence could even fit in as a strong safety in some NFL schemes.

1/5/12 Update:

Spence did have a fine senior season for a team that was horribly inconsistent and had plenty of problems on and off the field. However, Spence is one of the few Miami players moving in the right direction because he did put together another good season. He should do well at the NFL Combine as well and that will get him some more recognition. However, even with good outings between now and the draft, his ceiling is probably in the second round.

See all NFL Draft Profiles and Rankings