Draft Stock - Profiles

Strengths: Quick, disruptive, high motor
Weaknesses: A bit smallish for a 4-3 end in the NFL, has some off-the-field concerns

Statline: Recorded 22 sacks and 33.5 tackles for loss in four seasons at Virginia Tech. Also notched 165 tackles in 52 games.

Technique: Quick, high-motor player with character concerns.

Known Injuries: Suffered a right shoulder sprain in 2006 that ultimately required surgery for a torn labrum following the 2007 season. Also underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in that same shoulder as a redshirt freshman in 2003.

Combine / Workout Assessment: COMING SOON

Analysis: Ellis uses his quickness and non-stop motor to get to the passer, and at the collegiate level at least he’s proven strong enough to stand up to most run blocking. His future in the NFL will require him to either bulk up and play on the line or move to a rush linebacker position in a 3-4 scheme. There are also character and injury red flags on Ellis’ resume, including two surgeries on his right shoulder and resisting arrest/obstruction of justice charges. An extremely productive senior season—eight and a half sacks, 38 quarterback pressures, three fumble recoveries, and an interception returned for a touchdown—has put some of those concerns on the back burner, but it remains to be seen if Ellis’ flaws will be ignored come draft day.