Alabama inside linebacker prospect Reggie Ragland did not participate in much during Wednesday’s pro day, but he did enough to solidify him as one of the top linebackers.
Alabama LB Reggie Ragland in footwork and hand drills. pic.twitter.com/QlZw5kKxp6
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 10, 2016
His footwork was exceptional in position drills and he showcased ball skills to pair with his lateral quickness. Ragland’s hand strike was spot on in pass rush drills, to much delight of New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.
The four-time Super Bowl winning coach had Alabama’s leader on defense perform three different drills on tackling dummies.
Reggie Ragland getting that shifty footwork in gear. #ProDay pic.twitter.com/XtNjM1e7BN
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 10, 2016
Ragland is listed as the top-rated linebacker and is projected to be taken in the first-round of this year’s draft, according to CBS Sports. The Butkus Award finalist was a little disappointed about putting only 13 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press, yet he said “he continues to work hard.”
Alabama LB Reggie Ragland talking with the press after pro day. pic.twitter.com/Ij2Yjsecp2
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 10, 2016
“I did bench today and I got 13 reps,” Ragland said. “I felt like I could have done more but you know how it goes when everyone is watching you. For the most part, I think I did a great job.”
Ragland said “he showed out on every play and did not take a session off”, proving that he has what it takes to be successful at the next level.
“I am trying to be the best player I can be,” Ragland said. “I am not trying to get out of shape. I wanted to be smooth and show that I have fluid hips.
Ragland said that he plans to workout for the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, Jacksonville Jaguars and Minnesota Vikings, before the NFL Draft in Chicago on April 28-30.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
