Nick Perry 2012 NFL Draft quick report

Nick Perry, Southern California
Ht: 6’3, Wt: 250 pounds

Strengths: Perry could line up at end for a 4-3 defense but may be even better as a linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. He’s an agile pass rusher who consistently disrupts the pocket. May be the fastest pass rusher off the snap in this class. After being taken out of run plays early in his career, improved there as a junior greatly. Has the fluidity to not be beaten by elusive runners and breaks down in space well.

Weaknesses: Struggles when he tries to overpower offensive linemen. Has to learn better counter moves to match his burst and closing speed. Slows down when he has to use his hands on a lineman instead of simply using his speed. Played the inside gap in three-man fronts and struggled. Fooled by play action. Inexperienced for the most part in pass drops, but is more of a straight line player who doesn’t have the lateral fluidity.

Combine quotable: (On playing end or linebacker) It’s just that edge. Some people have a better edge getting off the ball with their hand in the dirt. I’ve been playing it a long time now, and I have experience in that. Being put further away from what you’re used to doing makes you a little uneasy.