Jordan Jenkins NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Jets Rookie

POSITIVES

A starter as a true freshman at Georgia right out of high school, Jordan Jenkins had big expectations placed on his shoulders. He would respond with solid, consistent play at outside linebacker while fighting off injuries that limited his 2015 season.

Jenkins was a team captain in 2015, highlighting his leadership skills. As an athlete, he has a big frame and shows the closing speed to get on the ball in a hurry. He starts and restarts with speed and has the first-step burst to stun blockers. When Jenkins gets a blocker backpedaling, he counters with a cross-step that gets blockers off balance. He can be very effective on twists and stunts and shows great timing coming off the edge.

Jenkins has been effective in the run game and will give chase all over the field. His motor runs hot and never stops. He's fluid, quick and decisive on the go. With position versatility, Jenkins can help both 4-3 and 3-4 teams. Even in pass coverage, Jenkins has the hips to drop into the flats and read the ball.

NEGATIVES

Jenkins battled through groin and hip injuries in 2015 and never truly dominated in college. His best season (2013) saw him notch five sacks and 12 tackles for loss, but his production decreased in the last two years of play.

Jenkins will get stuck between being a 4-3 outside linebacker and may even be talked about as a 3-4 inside linebacker depending on the scheme needs. Because he's more of a 'tweener, it could negatively impact his stock.

Disengaging from blockers is where Jenkins has trouble. He plays with poor leverage and struggles to maintain his position on edge-contain assignments. For a 261-pound linebacker, he gets moved around too easily and often ends up on the ground. Inconsistent explosion, average playmaking and a lack of "wow" plays move Jenkins down to late Day 2.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'2 ½"

Weight: 261 lbs.

40 Time: 4.67s

3-Cone: 7.47s

Short Shuttle: 4.46s

PRO COMPARISON: Courtney Upshaw, Atlanta Falcons
FINAL GRADE: 6.25/9.00 (Round 3—Future Starter)