Scouting report: Peria Jerry

6’2, 290 pounds | Ole Miss | Defensive tackle
Strengths: Jerry is a defensive tackle who plays a lot like an end. He has a great burst off the line, reminiscent to Sedrick Ellis of the New Orleans Saints. Uses his quickness to get inside guards to beat blocks and get into the backfield. Adequate lower body strength to take up double teams. A hard worker who will play down the field until the whistle. Has quick hands to work off double teams. Has also played defensive end. Had 33 tackles for a loss and 11.5 sacks his last two years.
Weaknesses: Needs to get stronger to hold up better against the run. Gets too tall in his stance at times, allowing linemen to cut under and him control him. Injury concerns are concerning. Had arthroscopic knee surgery prior to the 2008 season. Missed spring practice in 2007 after undergoing foot surgery. Will be a 25-year-old rookie.
Final word: Jerry is the model of a three-technique tackle. He’s lightning quick off the line and can shoot the gaps really well. He can make an impact up front and has been a top prospect for two years. Cousins Dwayne Rudd and Eddie Strong played in the NFL. Other cousins, Jamarca Sanford and John Jerry play for Ole Miss. The leader of the Ole Miss defensive line.
Round projection: 1