USC Trojans defensive end Nick Perry established himself as a junior in 2011, leading the Trojans with 9.5 sacks. He wreaked havoc on opposing quarterbacks last year, and is expected to shine in the NFL at either defensive end or outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. In the latest NFL Draft projections at CBS Sports, Perry could be picked anywhere from No. 20 to No. 31.
Dane Brugler projected Perry to be picked 20th by the Tennessee Titans, noting, "He isn't the most physically imposing specimen, but Perry has NFL-level athleticism." Meanwhile, Brugler's colleague Rob Rang has Perry falling to No. 31 to the New England Patriots.
"There are scouts who do believe he's just scratching the surface of his potential and others who like him best as a defensive end rather than an outside linebacker in the 3-4," wrote Rang. "For Patriots coach Bill Belichick, Perry would likely be asked to play both positions."
The Trojans have had 15 first round picks in the last 10 NFL drafts.
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