Editor’s note: NESN.com will profile intriguing prospects in the days leading up to the 2016 NFL Draft. Next up: Alabama defensive lineman Jarran Reed.
Jarran Reed, defensive lineman, Alabama
6-foot-3, 307 pounds
Projected round: First
2015 stats: 57 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, one sack, two passes defensed, one fumble recovery
Testing numbers: 5.21-second 40-yard dash, 1.80-second 10-yard split, 31-inch vertical jump, 8-foot, 8-inch broad jump, 4.75-second short shuttle, 7.77-second three-cone drill
Strengths: Reed is one of the best run defenders in the 2016 NFL Draft, as he ranked second among draft-eligible players in Pro Football Focus’ run stop percentage metric. He made 33 stops in 246 run snaps, showing his vision behind the line and his nose for the football. Reed isn’t known as a pass rusher, but he recorded three hurries in just 27 pass rush snaps at the 2016 Senior Bowl. Reed can handle double teams, and he’s “excellent at two gapping,” according to Pro Football Focus. He’s an ideal fit for a team running a 3-4.
Weaknesses: Despite his production in the Senior Bowl, Reed isn’t a great pass rusher. He recorded just 20 total pressures in 2015, according to Pro Football Focus. He might be limited to only playing on first and second downs in the NFL.
Patriots fit: Reed likely won’t be around for New England to draft him, but he’s a great fit, since the team asks its defensive linemen to two-gap frequently. Athletically, Reed is a fit for the Patriots, hitting their typical marks in all testing numbers other than 40 time.
Thumbnail photo via Joe Camporeale/USA TODAY Sports Images
