Fast-rising Whitney Mercilus posted a time of 7.03 in the three-cone, which bettered his mark from the combine by almost .15 seconds. The number would've also placed Mercilus, who lined up at defensive end last season, in the top half of the linebackers who participated in the three-cone test at the combine. His short shuttle run of 4.49 seconds was also an improvement from his combine number last week. Afterward, Mercilus ran through position drills at both defensive line and linebacker. The game-impacting junior has likely secured a spot for himself in the bottom half of the first round.
As far as pass-rushers go, my personal favorite is USC's Nick Perry, who I believe has the most potential and showed he could produce against some of the country's top offensive tackles during his college career. Mercilus concerns me a bit because he didn't produce much before last season, when he led the nation with 16 sacks and eight forced fumbles. Perry was more consistent throughout his career with the Trojans, and I feel he will make a smooth transition to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme.
If Perry is picked before the Chargers' 18th overall selection, my hope is general manager A.J. Smith will focus on taking an offensive tackle to replace Jeromey Clary. Ohio State's Mike Adams is still very high on my wish list.
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