2. Run Defense
Ray’s best traits are clearly his speed and explosion in pass rushing, but he uses that same burst in backside pursuit and closing speed on running backs.
Ray’s motor and effort is what sets him apart from the other outside linebackers in this class. There were times when Ray wasn’t even near the play, but he uses his speed to chase down running backs from behind and make plays across the field.
The biggest issue Ray will have entering the NFL is that he doesn’t have the strength and technique to set the edge properly. There were times where he gets completely washed out of the play. Also, he relies way too heavily on using his athleticism to fill the gap responsibilities as opposed to using strength to hold the point of attack.
Ray is good in the open field and typically takes good angles attacking ball carriers. In this play, Ray drops into zone coverage and watches the quarterback with his eyes moving around with him showing good open field agility.
Overall, Ray is very similar to 2015 NFL Draft prospect Vic Beasley. They are both weak against the run, they are both good in open space, and both are pure pass rushers entering the NFL next season with high ability.
Pro Comparison and Draft Projection
Pro Comparison: Bruce Irvin. I made this same comparison with Vic Beasley, but I think it applies here as well. Both were phenomenal athletes who entered the NFL as situational pass rushers first until they fully develop their games at the next level.
Draft Projection: Top 20 pick.
Click here for all of NFL Breakdowns’ scouting reports for the 2015 class.
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