Ray McDonald burst on to the scene as a freshman in 2003, earning Freshman All America honors after posting 54 tackles, eight for loss, and four sacks. As a sophomore DT, he had 39/10/3 on the year. He was shifted out to end as a junior, but it was basically a lost season because of a knee injury. As a senior this year, McDonald had 36 tackles, 4.5 for loss, and three sacks.
McDonald is a talented all around lineman. He is just as effective at stopping the run as he is rushing the passer. He also brings a lot of versatility, playing both end and tackle at Florida, and potentially being able to play a variety of roles in the NFL. He has solid size for a defensive end, but has the frame to get bigger, so a move inside to tackle may be in the future. McDonald is a solid athlete, who shows the quickness off the snap to get initial penetration, but also has the agility to change direction and bring down the quarterback.
McDonald is a bit of a tweener at this point. As an end, he lacks the explosive pass rush ability you want off the edge in a 4-3. As a defensive tackle or a 3-4 end, he lacks the pure bulk to hold up against the run on a consistent basis. He may fit better as a tackle but he will have to get bigger and stronger.
Versatility is a big plus for McDonald. He has the ability to play in any defense, but there are some questions at each spot. If he can add weight, he will probably be more coveted as a 4-3 tackle or a 3-4.