Parade and USA Today All-American who also competed in track and field as a Texas prep. Redshirted in 2007. A reserve/special-teams player in ’08, recorded 24 tackles, two for loss and one sack with one pass breakup in 12 games. Started all 14 games at weak-side linebacker in ’09 and produced 74-5-11⁄2 with four pass breakups. Was the Longhorns’ leading tackler in ’10, piling up 113-8-2 with two pass breakups, two interceptions, one forced fumble and a 10-yard fumble recovery TD against Rice in 12 starts. Produced 106-10-1 with seven pass breakups and two forced fumbles in 13 starts at middle linebacker in ’11.

Terrific body length — has long arms and uses his hands to protect his legs. Smooth movement skills. Agile and light on his feet — moves very well laterally. Good closing burst when he sees it. Flashes hitting ability. Outstanding range and coverage instincts. Keeps pace with backs and drops effortlessly into zone — shows natural ball reactions. Has flexible hips and plants and drives efficiently. Solid personal and football character.

Lean and high-cut. Average eyes and diagnostic skills — takes false steps, loses the ball and takes himself out of position. Not strong or physical — turns down some contact. Engulfed by larger blockers. Does not play heavy-handed to work off blocks and is too easily walled off. Inconsistent, low, leaky tackler. Limited pass-rush value. Lacks football savvy and has a tendency to freelance. 

Finesse, run-around, lateral-playing, run-and-chase weak-side linebacker with standout coverage skills to contribute readily in nickel packages. Has eventual starter potential. Scouts have compared him to Giants WLB Michael Boley.