Played safety, running back, receiver and tight end as a New Jersey prep. Committed to the Owls and then-head coach Al Golden in 2008, when he played all 12 games, recording seven tackles without any for loss or a sack. Had postseason surgery on his right shoulder. Played all 13 games in ’09, tallying 30-41 ⁄2-0 with two pass breakups and one forced fumble. Switched from jersey No. 31 to No. 2 in ’10, when he started 8-of-12 games outside and totaled 56-7 1⁄2-2 with two pass breakups, one interception and two forced fumbles. Started 12-of-13 games played at SLB in ’11 and recorded 70-13 1⁄2-5 with one pass breakup and four forced fumbles. The non-start was against Temple due defense opening in nickel coverage. Team captain.

Has large hands. Works to get off blocks — uses his hands well to punch/pull and free himself up. Chases aggressively and has good straight-line speed. Wrap tackler. Plays hard and does not shy from contact. Flashes potential as a blitzer. Played all three downs and has special-teams experience. Solid person and football character — well-respected, self-made leader who puts the time in to improve.

Lacks ideal size and bulk — needs to continue getting stronger. Average physicality and tackle strength. Shows some tightness in his hips — is not fluid or sudden changing direction. Unnatural working in reverse.

A motivated, hardworking overachiever, Whitehead is a lean, competitive, college strong-side linebacker who will have to move to the weak side in the pros. Lacks starter-caliber size and athletic ability but has a good football temperament that could enable him to earn a backup job in a 4-3 and contribute on special teams.