This week, we take a look at two B1G players who made their way in the trenches. These two prospects have resumes that shine beyond the box score.
These two players are guys who’ve been successful at a high level for a long time. They’ve been able to sustain their success despite increasing expectations. That kind of temperament is one of the key intangibles Ravens coaches look for, because their standards are as high as any team in the league.
NFL Draft Player Profile: George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 275 pounds
2021 stats: 41 tackles, 11.5 tfl, 5.0 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 2 passes defensed
Key traits: Creates excellent extension from his get off. Wastes virtually no time or space rushing the edge and closing to the quarterback. Strong and smart. Creates leverage advantages quickly to get offensive linemen or tight ends off balance. Good motor. May need to develop more of a counter move, but on the rare occasion he gets stuffed it’s not for a lack of strength. Shows nice patience against the run. Lined up primarily as a 5-technique on the defense’s left side, but also lined up at 3 and 7 techniques, as well. Good urgency and impressive explosion in short-yardage situations.
Ideal position: Defensive end (30 or 40 front)
Potential draft spot: Middle of 1st round
Why he’d be a good fit: The Ravens would like a pass rusher, but they really need an edge defender the most out of any position. Karlaftis has the ideal size and play type the Ravens are looking for. Not all edge rushers are strong against the run—he is. He played against tough run schemes at Purdue and thrived. There’s not a lot to dislike in his game. He seems to be one of the better, safer prospects in this draft.
Cool side note: Started playing football in 8th grade when he moved to Indiana from Athens, Greece.
Bottom line: If Travon Walker isn’t an option, Karlaftis should be on Baltimore’s short list for candidates to be their No. 1 pick.
NFL Draft Player Profile: Jake Ferguson, Tight End, Wisconsin
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 244 pounds
2021 stats: 46 receptions, 450 yards, 9.8 yards per reception, 3 touchdowns
Key traits: Good hands. Minimal drops (if any). Very physical. Almost a guarantee to convert on 3rd downs. Didn’t get the ball in space much, but when he did, he was very hard to bring down. Plenty agile to adjust to back shoulder throws. Didn’t run the most elaborate routes and can stand to increase his speed, but he separates enough to get open, even from a 3-point stance.
Ideal position: Reduced-split Y (stand-up tight end two yards from offensive tackle)
Potential draft spot: Late 3rd, Early 4th round
Why he’d be a good fit: Play style reminds me of Mark Andrews. He’s not as dynamic as Andrews, but Ferguson would present stability and youth to a vital position in Baltimore’s team—especially considering the departure of Eric Tomlinson (Denver). Ferguson isn’t as flashy as other tight ends, but he’s not a stiff. For what the Ravens do offensively, Ferguson fits very well. If he’s in on 12 personnel near the goal line, you know he’s going to get single coverage and have a definitive size advantage against any defender that matches up with him.
Cool side note: Grandson of former legendary Badgers Head Coach and Athletic Director Barry Alvarez
Bottom line: If the Ravens didn’t’ draft a tight end this year, they’d be good. If they drafted a player like Ferguson, they could return to greatness. The ripple effect of this move has that kind of potential.
Born in Baltimore, Mike had long been drawn to sports of all kinds. Growing up watching Cal Ripken play ever day gave him a great example for which to attack every endeavor he undertakes.
When the Ravens came to town, though, that’s when Mike found his passion. Since that time, he’s tried to gain every bit of knowledge he could. Now as a high school coach, Mike is able to take his film study and appreciation of the game to a new level.
To engage with Mike on social media, follow him on Twitter @MikeFastNFL.