School: North Carolina State
Position: Defensive End
Class: 2006
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 220lbs
Birthday: 7/3/84
40 Time: 4.51 (estimated)
220lbs is a good size for a DE
Positives
- Despite playing defensive end at NC State, Mannys shown he has more than enough athleticism to drop back to play linebacker. He may actually be on of the faster LB prospects in the country, which makes the fact that he played DE fairly astounding. Hes an excellent pass rusher, racking up 7 sacks and 12 tackles for loss last year, but is also very good in run support. Also, he has great size for an Outside Linebacker.
Weaknesses
- Hasnt played linebacker since his sophomore year, so theres going to be a natural readjustment period. The first thing that the team that drafts him will have to work on is his coverage skills, because the speed of the game will have changed a great deal from his last LB duty. Plus, he had the benefit of playing across from possibly the best DE in the nation at NC State in Mario Williams, so his numbers may be a little inflated.
Overall Analysis
- The risk/reward value on Manny is one of the highest in the 2006 class. He could never meet his expectations due to the inability to return to the LB position at a high level, or he could turn out to be one of the most dangerous linebackers in the league. Mannys ideal situation would probably be in a 3-4, which would having him standing up, but also allow the freedom to rush the passer very, very often.