Overall
Going into the 2011 season there were high hopes for Jared Crick. He was coming off two huge seasons and was projected to be a top 20 draft pick. However he started off slow and then torn his pectoral muscle after playing in only 5 games. Now there is going to be a cloud of questions around his value in the draft. However, Crick should be healthy for the combine and will be able to show what he has to offer. Crick really reminds me a lot of Cameron Jordan who is now with the Saints. Much like Jordan, Crick is very versatile and can fit into any scheme. Crick played in a 2 gap system at Nebraska so he knows how to play with leverage, take on blockers and shed blocks to make plays. So he fits in real well as a 5 technique defensive end. Crick also could fit as a 3 technique DT in the 4-3 where he can use his speed and quickness to penetrate and disrupt the backfield. Because of the uncertainty with Crick's injury status, he is right now sitting as a 3rd round value, however a strong combine where he shows he is back to his old form could rise him up. But at best he'll be a high 2nd round pick. He's probably best suited for the 3-4 and that is likely where he'll end up, but you never know.
