Jarron Gilbert DL 6'6 288 San Jose St. 4.87

Gilbert was a key reserve as a freshman, finishing the year with 22 tackles, five for loss, and three sacks on the year. He became a starter at end as a sophomore and finished the season with 32 tackles, 7.5 for loss, and five sacks. As a junior, Gilbert earned 2nd team all WAC honors after posting 38 tackles, 7.5for loss, and four sacks, shifting from end to tackle in mid season. The change to DT was a blessing for Gilbert as he had a huge season inside as a senior. He had 52 tackles, a nation leading 22 for loss, and 9.5 sacks on his way to WAC Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Strengths

Gilbert is a versatile lineman that added an explosive quality with his shift inside. He has a good frame, and the potential to play DE or DT in a 4-3, or end in a 3-4 alignment. Inside he uses a great burst off the line to get initial penetration, and he shows the ability to close once he has the ball carrier in sight. Gilbert is a good athlete for a lineman, and is fluid moving around the field, and is consistently in the backfield. He shows good natural strength at the point of attack, and that should allow him to hold down a job in a 3-4 defense.

Weaknesses

Gilbert’s best position is either inside in a 4-3 or on the edge in a 3-4, but at either spot, he must bulk up. He carries a tweener label because of his size at the moment. He may lack the explosive pass rush ability as an end in a 4-3, which is why he projects better to different roles. The extra bulk will allow him to not be pushed off the ball in running situations, and help him become a more well rounded lineman in any scheme.

Future

Jarron Gilbert had a huge senior year, but it’s been the post season that has elevated his draft status. The tape shows his ability to be a playmaker, but Gilbert has impressed in drills and workouts as well. His all around performance was excellent and he may have pushed his stock right up on the heels of Tyson Jackson for the top 3-4 DE available in April. He showed up at 6'6 288lbs, with amazing 36 3/4" arms, which was the top mark of all players at the event. He had a solid 4.87 40, but also put up 28 reps on the bench, and posted a 35.5" vertical. Gilbert is a hot name and could eventually push his way into the back end of the first round when all is said and done.