2015 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Denzel Perryman

Dec 27, 2014; Shreveport, LA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks tailback Mike Davis (28) rushes during the first half as Miami Hurricanes linebacker Denzel Perryman (52) closes in during the first quarter in the 2014 Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Scouts’ Take

Derek Stephens and Rob Rang of CBSSp0rts.com said of Perryman “Despite lacking desirable height, Perryman has the look of a prototypical inside ‘backer with a stout, thick frame. He’s an instinctive and tough in-the-box defender who showed improved closing speed and explosiveness as a hitter in 2014. He’s difficult to latch onto due his active hands, agile feet and good use of leverage when taking on bigger blockers. Fast to pick up on routes when dropping into coverage.

Short squatty frame may leave him overmatched at the line of scrimmage and best suited to remaining inside at the next level. Highly aggressive. Will occasionally take false steps toward the line of scrimmage and will leave himself trailing and vulnerable in play-action.”

Lance Zlerlein of NFL.com said of him, “Burly, stout, old-school middle linebacker build. Wants to hit and brings his pads with him to deliver a blow. Delivers a jarring punch to oncoming offensive lineman on the second level. Defends his area of turf and sees past blockers, keeping his eye trained on the play. Is able to disengage and shed blockers.

Takes time to gear up after changing directions and cam struggle to tackle jitter-bug runners in space. Heavy legged mover in space and struggles to make plays outside of his area. Lacks coverage traits and is a liability in man coverage. Short levers won’t allow him to leverage blockers as a pass-rusher. Slow to get off his spot laterally and burst, which causes him to miss some tackle opportunities.”

Next: My Take