Quote:Remember he could not beat out Michael Sam. One year wonder at Missouri.

 

I dont think thats a fair assessment.  First of all Sam was a really good college player that led the SEC in sacks and TFL his senior season.  And I believe was an all conference player.  So its not as though Ray couldnt beat out a scrub.  He was an underclassmen not starting ahead of a senior who was the best pass rusher in the SEC.  Even as a backup though, his numbers in 2013 were basically on par with Fowler's who was a starter.  And then as a starter in 2014 Ray became the best pass rusher in the conference.


Ray has basically everything you want except for the size.  Great production.  Super athletic.  A lot of hustle and energy.  But the only downside is the size.  6'3 and 245.  Not tiny but ideally when drafting up that high, you'd want a DE closer to 6'5 260.  

 

So do you take the lesser player in Fowler who may have slightly better size(although he is only 6'2 so its not like he doesnt have his own concerns) or do you go with the better player and better athlete in Ray?  Or neither because they both have limitations.

 

Personally I'd have no problem with Ray at 3.  He may not be as versatile along the line the way a guy like Leonad Williams.  But as a pure pass rusher, there may not be a better one in the draft.  

 

 

*caveat... I have no idea if any of these guys are total headcases in which case my opinion would change.

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