Won a state championship at Chicago Catholic League power St. Rita. Committed to then-head coach Charlie Weis and the Fighting Irish and recorded 24 tackles and 21⁄2 for loss (all sacks) in 13 games (three starts at outside linebacker) in 2008. Started 7-of-11 games in ’09 — five at defensive end, two at the “Sam” LB spot — and posted 30-12-3 with one forced fumble. Did not play against Washington (hamstring). Started all 13 games at OLB in N.D.’s 3-4 scheme in ’10, when he produced 49-11-6 with four pass breakups and one interception. In ’11, he recorded 55-7-3 1⁄2 with three pass breakups, one interception, one forced fumble and one blocked kick in 13 starts — 12 starts at OLB and one at defensive tackle. Has had three surgeries on his left shoulder. Cramped during 40s at Combine.

Quick off the snap. Flashes edge-rushing ability and closing burst. Good arm length and upper-body strength. Nice knee bend and lateral movement. Shows flexibility and body control to drop in zones. Good tackler. Disciplined. Has worked from a two- and three-point stance and played in even and odd fronts. Moved cleanly through bags in Combine drills. Outstanding personal and football character — smart and well respected.

Lacks ideal height. Shows some tightness in his hips. Needs to develop counter moves. Average base strength. Gets outmuscled or swallowed up at the point of attack — not a stack-and-shed anchor. Has man-cover limitations. Ordinary production and playmaking impact. Has had multiple shoulder surgeries and durability is a concern.

Undersized, athletic, tweener with strong intangibles. Played hurt and did not dominate in college. Developmental prospect capable of becoming a better pro than college player if used properly in pass-rush specialist role.