Zach Follett LB 6'1 238 California

Follett had an impressive freshman campaign with the Bears, tallying 32 tackles, three for loss, and two sacks in 2005. He started just one game as a sophomore but still managed to have 62 tackles, 12.5 for loss, and 5.5 sacks. Follett became a full time starter as a junior, and his numbers were nearly identical. He had 64 tackles, 12.5 for loss, and 5.5 sacks. He had an amazing senior season, finishing with 87 tackles, 23 for loss, and 10.5 sacks.

Strengths

Follett is a fierce hitter and is as aggressive as any linebacker in the draft. He quickly diagnoses the play and closes on the ball carrier very quickly with above average speed. He is as tough as they come, and plays with surprising strength. Follett has shown the ability to take on blockers and still make the play. When he arrives near the action, he makes his presence felt. He closes out every play by unloading on the ball carrier, as his 13 career forced fumbles attest. He is at his best attacking and moving forward and is always around the action.

Weaknesses

Follett plays stiff and that will limit his upside. He does not match up well in coverage and he does not change direction well. He does an excellent job of moving in a straight line, but has trouble when he needs to re-direct. He also only has average size, and will need to pack on some more weight.

Future

Follett had a tremendous senior season, displaying a lot of ability attacking the line of scrimmage. He may not be very good at playing in space, but he has the toughness, instincts, strength and speed to make a lot of plays if he is allowed to attack the line of scrimmage. This is a very good year for linebackers but Follett would be a very good selection in the third or fourth round of the draft.