Ranking the Top 15 Edge Rusher Prospects in the 2015 NFL Draft

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

5. Shane Ray, 6’2.5, 245, Missouri

Ray is an extremely talented pass rusher, and he’ll make a big impact for a team at the next level as long as his lack of weight doesn’t hold him back.

Ray uses his leverage well, and his technique in getting to the quarterback is very polished, as he swings his hips around and shifts his weight well. He has fantastic first getting out of his stance off the line of scrimmage, and once he gets free his closing speed is elite.

He moves across the field very well and has great change-of-direction skills, and he has all the skills to be a great run defender. However, he needs to make sure he fulfills this potential at the next level, as he struggled to make an impact against the run at the college level, often taking questionable angles and lacking discipline.

Ray figures to be a first-round pick, though the team that takes him will be tasked with building him up a bit through their strength and conditioning program and finding the position that fits him best, whether it be as a 3-4 outside linebacker or a 4-3 rush linebacker in the mold of Von Miller, Bruce Irvin, or Anthony Barr.

Next: 4. Markus Golden