BENARDRICK MCKINNEY MISSISSIPPI STATE
Height: 6-4. Weight: 246. Scouting report: The Bulldogs’ leading tackler the last two seasons. Potential three-down player. Teams will be weighing his strengths (40.5-inch vertical was best at position at combine) vs. weaknesses (below-average 16 reps in 225-pound bench press).
Insider’s take: “We fully support Benardrick’s decision (to skip senior season) and know he is ready for the next level. He has been a tremendous leader for our football team both on and off the field.” — Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen.
STEPHONE ANTHONY CLEMSON
Height: 6-3. Weight: 243. Scouting report: Started 35 games for the Tigers and made 330 tackles. Had best 40-yard time among inside linebackers at combine (4.56 seconds). Has athletic skills to chase plays and drop in pass coverage. Questions about his ability to shed blocks.
Insider’s take: “He caught my eye with his ability to run. Then he caught my eye with his ability to hit.” — Charles Davis, NFL Network analyst.
DENZEL PERRYMAN MIAMI (FLA.)
5-11.
Height: Weight: 236.
Scouting report: Short in stature but a big hitter. Primary strengths are against run, beating blockers and making solid hits. Question is how well he’ll hold up in pass coverage.
Insider’s take: “Teams will ding him for his lack of height and explosive athleticism, but his game tape reveals a dominant player within the tackle-to-tackle box.” — Bucky Brooks, NFL Media analyst.
PAUL DAWSON TEXAS CHRISTIAN
6-0.
Height: Weight: 235. Scouting report: Made big plays as senior. Slowed by hamstring injury, had poor 40 time at combine (4.93 seconds) but improved at pro day (4.75). Admitted failing drug test for Adderall at TCU but later got prescription.
Insider’s take: “He just wants to play the game like a monster. And he can.” — Brent Callaway, speed and strength coach at EXOS, who has trained Dawson.