Editor’s note: NESN.com will profile intriguing prospects in the days leading up to the 2016 NFL Draft. Next up: Penn State defensive end Carl Nassib.
Carl Nassib, defensive end, Penn State
6-foot-7, 277 pounds
Projected round: Second to third
2015 stats: 15.5 sacks, 46 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, one interception, six forced fumbles
Testing numbers: 4.84-second 40-yard dash, 1.62-second 10-yard split, 28.5-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 6-inch broad jump, 4.37-second short shuttle, 7.27-second 3-cone drill, 21 bench reps of 225 pounds
Strengths: Nassib was extremely productive as a senior at Penn State, leading the NCAA with 15.5 sacks and six forced fumbles. He also had nine quarterback hits and 29 hurries, according to Pro Football Focus. Nassib had a strong week at Senior Bowl practices, winning 93 percent of his one-on-one matchups, according to Pro Football Focus. He has ideal size and “plays low” despite his length, according to Pro Football Focus.
Weaknesses: Nassib is the definition of a one-year wonder. He had just 18 tackles and two sacks in his first three college seasons with the Nittany Lions. Nassib isn’t an elite athlete, only shining at the NFL Scouting Combine in his 10-yard split and short shuttle.
Patriots fit: Nassib has the size, length and lateral quickness the Patriots typically look for in a defensive end. He doesn’t fit the Patriots’ typical draft profile with his 40-yard dash, bench press, vertical leap, broad jump and 3-cone.
Thumbnail photo via Matthew O’Haren/USA TODAY Sports Images
