Scouting report: Gerald McRath

6’3, 224 pounds | Southern Miss | Inside linebacker
Strengths: McGrath is a natural read and react middle linebacker with great instincts and timing. He’s immediately in action on the snap and always seems to be flowing in the right direction. Takes solid angles toward the ball carrier. Uses his plus agility to avoid blockers. Dependable in coverage. Reads the quarterback well and anticipates where he’ll throw the ball very well.
Weaknesses: Given his size, it would be easy to expect McRath to be faster than he plays. He doesn’t close especially quickly on opponents and isn’t an intimidating presence on the field. Doesn’t have the size to play middle linebacker. Should he shift over, he’ll need to do a better job working against low blocks. Has a slight frame and needs to get stronger all around. Doesn’t have very good hands.
Final word: McRath has the makings of a weak-side linebacker in the next level. He’s agile, smart and does a nice job in coverage. He played both inside and outside in college and was very productive. Should he stay at middle linebacker, he’ll have to put on at least 20 pounds of mass. Finished his career with 386 tackles, 32.5 for a loss, eight sacks and seven pass breakups.
Round projection: 3