Audie Cole to Vikings: Video Highlights, Scouting Report and Analysis

Inside linebacker Audie Cole, a three-year starter for the North Carolina State Wolfpack, is quick off the ball, has good instincts, and has decent pass-rush skills. He led the team in tackles in his last three seasons.

Cole is also good in pass coverage due to his experience as a strong-side linebacker in 2009-10 for N.C. State. With tight ends being used more and more now, Cole's pass-coverage ability can be key if he works on his speed. He can use his size (6'4", 246) very well against bigger tight ends, and slow them down by jamming them at the line.

Combine Numbers: 40-yard dash: 4.79 seconds. 20-yard shuttle: 4.31 seconds. 3-cone drill: 6.96 seconds. Bench press: 15 reps. Broad jump: 114". Vertical jump: 35"

Pro Day: According to NFL.com's Gil Brandt, Cole had a good workout at N.C. State's pro day. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.78 seconds and 4.81 seconds. Not much of an improvement from his combine numbers, but something that he can always work on. Cole is dedicated and competitive. 

From NFL.com

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Cole is a strong player who is noticeably explosive when throwing his body into linemen. He can make good tackles when playing in the box and when the play comes to him. He is an obviously competitive player who seems to enjoy taking on pulling lineman and fitting up with them before using his arm strength to shed. He can maul a tight end on the line but has difficulty running with them. 

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Cole is a solid linebacker and has ability to back up at multiple positions, increasing his value. His stock took a hit after posting less-than-impressive combine stats his senior year, but he can produce and be useful in a backup role. 

Pick Analysis

Audie Cole represents exactly what you want in a seventh-round pick. He's not going to step in and start for the Minnesota Vikings, but he's got some nice physical tools so he's got considerable upside. With some time and experience, he might become a weapon, but he adds depth for now.