E.J. Ejiya, OLB, North Texas #22

6020, 231, 4.72

Notes: First name is Ejodamen. From Blaine, MN. Grew up a Minnesota Vikings fan during the Daunte Culpepper and Randy Moss era. Played football, baseball, basketball and competed in track in high school. Originally recruited by North Dakota State to play running back, but suffered a torn ACL playing basketball and his offer was rescinded. Enrolled in junior college at North Dakota State College of Science. Did not play football in 2014. Moved to linebacker and posted a team-high 62 tackles and 4 sacks in 2015. Was recruited by North Texas by their linebacker coach, who convinced him to head 950 miles south from where he grew up. Played in 13 games for the Mean Green, posting 43 tackles and 3.5 tackles-for-loss in 2016. Led the team in tackles with 109, including 12 TFL, 7 sacks and 1 forced fumble in 2017. Collected 121 tackles, 25 TFL, 9 sacks, 1 FF, 1 fumble recovery and 1 blocked kick in 2018.

Positives: Good athlete. Outstanding production. Flies around and makes tackles all over the field. Can generate power from quickness and speed. Uses his hands. Plays with intensity and passion. Can rush the passer and get upfield. Strong, textbook tackler.

Negatives: Average natural size. Limited exposure in pass coverage.

Summary: Not an elite talent, but has adequate-plus tools and enough intangibles to make the jump to the NFL.