Credit: Icon SMI

Strengths: Solid NFL frame with good bulk...good closing speed when rushing the passer...explosive hitter...better ball skills than given credit for...demonstrates good instincts and always flowing towards the ball...does a great job in zone coverage...dominate college player...works well through trash to locate the ball carrier...offers some scheme versatility....

Weaknesses: Needs to improve his functional strength...may struggle to shed blockers at the next level...will not be able to add a lot of bulk at the next level...probably a low upside player...played with several other NFL caliber players...probably a little overrated because he will struggle to make a lot of impact plays.

Overall: Following in the steps of recent Buckeye linebackers such as A.J. Hawk and Bobby Carpenter, James "Little Animal" Laurinaitis is probably a little overrated by the general public but still projects as a solid NFL starter. Laurinaitis is one of the most decorated collegiate linebackers in recent history, including a Butkus Award win. He can probably start in virtually any scheme but projects best on the weakside or in the middle of a standard 4-3 defense.