2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Pernell McPhee, Mississippi State

Pernell McPhee – DE #90 – Mississippi State

6-4, 285 lbs Senior

Stats:

2007-2008 JUCO Itawamba CC (MS), then transferred to MSU

2007 – 67 Tackles, 37 TFL, 19.5 Sacks

2008 – 23.5 TFL, 13.5 Sacks

2009 – 56 Tackles, 12 TFL, 5 Sacks

Pros:

McPhee uses his hands and arms very well. He keeps blockers off his frame, which allows him to shed blocks, get to the quarterback, and make his presence felt. He has a good bull rush move and a decent swim move. His numbers are down this year, but his overall game has improved. He’s solid against the run. He can create good leverage, gets off the snap with a good jump, and holds the point against the run. He has suddenness and quickness. He also has good athleticism for a man his size. Has a good motor.

Cons:

As I mentioned above, he hasn’t been getting the stats that he was expected to get this year. He’s been a disappointment since he only has 5 tackles for loss and no sacks (credited with 9 QB hurries though). One reason he couldn’t be getting to the quarterback is because of his lack of a great first step. Also, I haven’t seen him able to get around the edge effectively enough, just enough to get a lot of pressures on the QB.

Thoughts:

You don’t have to have the sack numbers to be a good defensive end, but if McPhee wants to move up to a second round grade, he should probably start sacking the quarterback. He’s shown that he does have the skill necessary to get there. Other than him struggling in that category this year, he’s a very solid prospect. He holds the point, uses his hands very well, and even drops back into coverage on occasion. He’s going to have to finish strong, or else he could drop.

Projected Round:

3rd round