2021 NFL Draft OLB rankings: Zaven Collins tops Micah Parsons for top spot
By John Blair
7. Jabril Cox, LSU
6-foot-3, 233 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Third round
Jabril Cox started his career off at North Dakota State where he quickly established himself as one of the top players in the FCS. During his career with the Bison, he recorded 258 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, 14 sacks, and was named an FCS All-American twice. He decided to transfer to LSU in 2020 where he quickly became a leader of the Tigers defense finishing third on the team in tackles and second on the team in interceptions.
Teams looking for a linebacker who is strong in coverage will consider Jabril Cox on the second day of the 2021 NFL Draft. Cox is a fluid athlete who should be able to match up with NFL tight ends in coverage. He shows nice awareness in this area as well, finishing his career with nine interceptions.
Another positive with Cox is his overall speed as he has the ability to make plays all over the field
While Cox is a strong player vs. the pass he is far from a run stuffer. Against the run, he lacks the physicality to consistently battle through traffic. He lacks great instincts in this area as well which can cause him to be a step late at times.
One more issue with him is he does not offer a ton as a blitzer and likely won’t be a big-time pass rusher in the NFL.