Scouting report: B.J. Raji

B.J. Raji

6'1, 323 pounds | Boston College | Defensive tackle

Strengths: Raji is a powerful, run-stuffing force in the middle of the defensive line. He has the frame to play the nose in a 3-4, but mainly played in the 4-3. He is best, though, right over the center. Routinely takes up two blockers. Raji has the strength to collapse the pocket, forcing quarterbacks to roll out. Possesses decent quickness off the snap. Very impressive during Senior Bowl week.

Weaknesses: Inconsistent in his effort. Will take plays off. There are big concerns about Raji's stamina as he'll often have to come out of the game. Weight has fluctuated during his career. Will struggle at times to shed blocks. Can't sustain his quickness more than a step or two. Lacks pass rush moves. Underperformed, to an extent, until his senior season. Had to sit out the 2007 season due to academic issues. Maturity might be an issue. Suspended for half a game for punching an opponent.

Final word: Raji is a sometimes impossible to move player who can fill running lanes and collapse the pocket. He had impressive stats as a senior (16 tackles for a loss, eight sacks), but got a lot of it in bunches. He fits best in a 3-4 on the nose, but could hold up in a 4-3. Still, though, he has stamina and intangible issues that might scare some teams away. He might also have to play in a rotation. Started 38 career games.

Round projection: 1