Opinions about Purdue defensive end Ryan Kerrigan seem scattered in the draftnik community. The NFL community seems much fonder of the 2010 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
Last week, SI.com draft analyst Tony Pauline reported on his blog that Kerrigan’s stock is so high he could be a top-15 pick in April’s draft. Kerrigan drew a “huge crowd” to the Boilermakers’ Pro Day, and according to Pauline is “the fastest riser” among draft-eligible defensive linemen.
On Saturday, former NFL scout Dave Razzano indicated that he’s heard similar things from his connections in the league.
“Sounds like Ryan Kerrigan could start flying up draft boards,” tweeted Razzano. “Top scouts I talk to absolutely love him. More than (Robert) Quinn of UNC.”
ESPN’s Todd McShay chimed in Friday evening: “I could watch tape of Purdue defensive end Ryan Kerrigan all day. Limited athlete but makes play after play. Tied FBS career record with 14 forced fumbles.”
If Pauline’s prediction that Kerrigan will go in the top 15 comes true, teams likely to be strongly interested include the Texans at No. 11, Vikings at 12, and Rams at 14.
Though some have reservations about Kerrigan’s ability to transition from college 4-3 end to pro 3-4 outside linebacker, plenty of teams running the latter system are showing significant interest.
On the PFT Visits & Workouts Tracker, we’ve confirmed Kerrigan’s meetings with the Jets, Chargers, Ravens, Bills, and Redskins.