This post is part of a continuing series in which we break down 13 2011 NFL Draft prospects - our Baker's Dozen - that should interest the Buffalo Bills. Previous physical scouting reports: WR Julio Jones, DT Nick Fairley, DT Marcell Dareus, DE Da'Quan Bowers.
California defensive end Cameron Jordan, one of this year's best senior prospects, continues to get buzz as a possibility to the Bills at the No. 3 overall pick. Though his game does not have the flash of many of the underclassmen prospects entering the league this year, and though he may not be the snazzy pick Bills fans are hoping for, there's a good case to be made for Jordan being a "reach-worthy" prospect.
Defining Trait: Versatility. In an extremely deep class of defensive lineman, Jordan is the group's most polished, and its most versatile. Playing in California's multiple-front defense, Jordan has experience as a five-technique end, as a typical 4-3 defensive end, and as a three-technique tackle lining up against guards. He even stood up and rushed from a two-point stance from time to time. He's a strong athlete, a sound technician and vastly experienced, and many NFL teams are going to be comfortable plugging him into their lineup from the word 'go' - regardless of the scheme they run.
Pass Rush. Very polished. Has a variety of moves in his arsenal, which separates him a bit from the higher-upside, less-developed, bigger-name pass rushers out there. Quick off the ball and has a solid first step. Can bend the edge and get under tackles, but is not particularly explosive in doing so. Fast, violent hands allow him to keep tackles off his body, and contribute to his pass rushing moves. Good bull rusher and can overpower tackles. Strong closing burst. Can get high coming out of his stance and get slowed up, but affects passing lanes when this happens. Will not be an elite sack artist, but should be a productive pass rusher as a pro.
Run Defend. Anchors very well and has a wide base. Gains separation from blockers with ease thanks to great hands and very long arms. Quick to find the ball, gets good penetration, and understands angles. Stacks and sheds extremely well. Has good instincts and awareness, but has shown susceptibility to play fakes. Has an outstanding motor and gives top effort, but this can work against him - he will get over-aggressive on occasion and miss his assignment as a result. Explosive, technically sound tackler.
College Production. Was a three-year starter at California, earning a full-time gig mid-way through his sophomore season. Extremely experienced, having played in 50 games at the Division I level. Even though California moved him around a bit - especially in his senior season - his production was never elite. Production dropped off a bit when Tyson Alualu graduated and Jordan began to see consistent double teams.
Cameron Jordan: College Statistics
Year | College | Class | GP | Tkl | TFL | Sack |
2007 | California | FR | 13 | 18 | 1.0 | 1.0 |
2008 | California | SO | 12 | 47 | 11.0 | 4.0 |
2009 | California | JR | 13 | 48 | 9.5 | 8.0 |
2010 | California | SR | 12 | 62 | 12.5 | 5.5 |
Cameron Jordan Totals | 50 | 175 | 34.0 | 17.5 |
Athletic Traits. Prototypical height, weight, arm length and hand size to be a five-technique defensive end. Good hand and foot quickness, and is very balanced - it's rare that you see him off of his feet on the field. Above-average timed speed and agility. Exhibits excellent body control, flexibility and knee bend, allowing him to play with great leverage the vast majority of the time. NFL-ready strength throughout his frame. Jordan's father, Steve, was a six-time Pro Bowl tight end for the Minnesota Vikings in the 1980s.
Cameron Jordan - 2011 Combine Results
Name | Pos. | College | CL | Ht. | Wt. | Arm | Hand | 40 Time | Reps | Vert | 3-Cone | Broad |
Cameron Jordan | DE | California | SR | 6041 | 287 | 35.0 | 11.1 | 4.78 | 25 | 31" | 7.07 | 9'9" |
Injury Issues. None documented. Highly durable player. Played in all but one game in college (suspension).