Tennessee Titans Draft Profile: DE Nick Perry, USC

October 2, 2010; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Jake Locker (10) runs the ball ahead of Southern California Trojans defensive end Nick Perry (8) during the second half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-US PRESSWIRE

The Tennessee Titans have to be looking towards the future of the DE position. Nick Perry is one of the top rated DE’s in the draft and there’s a possibility he’s still on the board when the Titans pick. After missing out on Mario Williams in free agency and John Abraham, the Titans have a need at the DE position. They have added Kamerion Wimbley, but they’re not sure what they’ll get from him or Morgan this season, so DE could very well be their first choice.. Nick Perry increased his stock when he came into the Combine at 6-3 and 271 lbs, over ten pounds heavier than his college playing weight. He still showed great athleticism and speed.

Strengths:  Perry has a strong base which helps him power through OT’s, he’s also displays a very impressive speed for a DE, his fluid hips help him change directions and keep balance, very athletic, performs well under pressure, uses hands fairly well to keep himself separated from OL, good shoulder level helps him get under/by offensive tackles.

Weaknesses: Doesn’t display a lot of special moves – needs to add to his arsenal, doesn’t have huge numbers in college though they do show improvement, struggles against the run, is a little bit of a tweener even though he recently added 10-15 pounds – can play 3-4  LB or 4-3 DE though with his weight gain it looks like he would prefer being a DE at the next level.

Highlights

Displays good speed, awareness

 First season as a freshman. Why can’t I find the stats for this season?

Combine Numbers

Arm Length: 33″

Hand Size:  9 1/2″

via NFL.com

                               TACKLES            SOLO          SACKS          FF            PD        FR 

2010                        15                           25                    4                 3                3              1

2011                         54                           31                   9.5              2                3              1

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