2011 NFL Draft: Can Ryan Kerrigan Help New England Patriots Pass Rush?

In ESPN's Mel Kiper's most recent mock draft, he has the New England Patriots selecting Purdue defensive end/outside linebacker Ryan Kerrigan at 17th overall. 

Kerrigan has been a popular name among New England's draft talk and certainly has the ability to be an impact player. 

Height: 6'4"

Weight: 263 lbs. 

Projection: Mid first round

Strengths

Kerrigan is an extremely versatile pass rusher, being able to line up as a defensive end or outside linebacker.

Being one of the top pass rushers in this year's draft, Kerrigan has great speed for his position. At the combine, he posted a 4.71 forty-yard dash time.

Along with Kerrigan's speed, he uses his hands extremely well. Whether if he's rushing the quarterback or going against the run, Kerrigan can bull-push his blocker, shed the block and get to the ball.

Kerrigan has a great nose for the ball—he's always making a play.

Bill Belichick should be a big fan of Kerrigan, as he's got a high motor, great work ethic and displays a strong football IQ.

Weaknesses

When looking at Kerrigan's combine numbers and career stats at Purdue, it's kind of hard to find any fault with the guy. 

Kerrigan got away with using his speed to rush to the outside of his blocker. However, he will be countered to the inside in the NFL. At the college level, Kerrigan struggled with a countering pass-rushing move and needs to develop one to be elite in the NFL.  

While playing defensive end most of his collegiate career, he doesn't have the best pass coverage skills. He might look awkward in space, but he does have enough athleticism to become comfortable defending the pass.

Conclusion

Kerrigan looks to be a safe draft choice if Belichick decides to go his way. 

Playing at Purdue, he's displayed great abilities in multiple areas, and more importantly, he's a relentless pass rusher. 

Kerrigan has a great frame and can bulk up if needed. He's got nice long arms, is able to defend the run or pass and has above-average lateral movement.

His final year at Purdue, Kerrigan recorded 12.5 sacks along with 70 tackles—he's definitely an impact player.

Kerrigan would be a nice addition to New England's roster, as he would address the needs at pass rush and the outside linebacker position.

NOTE: This article was first seen at PatriotsPlus.net.

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