Aaron Curry

6’2, 246 pounds | Outside linebacker | Wake Forest

Strengths: As a prospect, there is a lot to like with Curry. At 6-foot-3 and 247 pounds, Curry has good size. As a four-year starter, he also has a ton of experience. Curry is as good of a defensive leader as there is in this year’s class. He can command a squad and call adjustments. Extremely reliable tackler who uses good fundamentals. Closes quickly when he has an open lane.

What should make Curry an immediate starter is his pass coverage skills. Can sink his hips and backpedal nicely. Does a good job staying with most tight ends and making a play on the ball.

Weaknesses: Watching Curry, it appears he lacks hip fluidity and doesn’t run so well when it’s not in a straight line. Not necessarily a game changer who opponents need to game plan around. Wasn’t asked to blitz a whole lot and doesn’t have great career sack totals. Because of this, Curry doesn’t have great pass rush moves. Will sometimes over pursue and outrun a play.

Final word: A lock to be a top-15 pick in April. Curry combines size, speed and athleticism. Curry has seen his tackles and tackles for loss increase each season, culminating in a 105-tackle performance in 2008. That was good enough to win him the Butkus Award.

Round projection: 1