New England Patriots: Five 2016 NFL Draft Targets

Dec 29, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Eric Striker (19) hits Clemson Tigers quarterback Cole Stoudt (18) as he releases the ball as the Tigers beat the Sooners 40-6 in the 2014 Russell Athletic Bowl at Florida Citrus Bowl. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

Eric Striker, EDGE, Oklahoma, Sr.

6-foot-0, 223 pounds

Projected Round: 3-4

Eric Striker is currently projected as a mid-to-late round pick, but he is certainly a candidate to catch fire and quickly rise up draft boards. Striker is a natural athlete who does a fantastic job of using his speed and quickness to rush the passer from the outside.

Sometimes he is lined up with his hand in the ground, and sometimes he is in a two-point stance. Regardless, he always seems to be putting pressure on the quarterback. That is, except for when he drops into zone coverage, which he does very well for a guy who is mostly considered a defensive lineman.

Pass rusher isn’t necessarily a huge need for the Patriots, but in today’s NFL, you can never have too many. Striker has an obvious ability to get to the quarterback, and his versatility makes him an incredible fit in New England. Size and lack of power are a concern, but Striker seems like a Bill Belichick player, and there is nobody in the league who would have more success with him.

Next: A True Versatile Offensive Weapon