NFL Draft Profile: Jordan Zumwalt

Nov 2, 2013; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Jordan Zumwalt (35) during the game against the Colorado Buffaloes at Rose Bowl. UCLA defeated Colorado 45-23. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

With the NFL Draft coming up this week, GJB will be breaking down some of UCLA’s potential picks. Today we look at linebacker, Jordan Zumwalt.

Vital Stats

Height: 6’4”, Weight: 235 lbs., Arm Length: 31¼”, Hands: 8¾”

His Time At UCLA

Zumwalt has been well known during his time at UCLA, mainly because he has played a lot of games in blue and gold and has been effective doing it. He started his Bruin football career playing 11 games as a true freshman. His last three years, he played in 13 games each season, only missing one game in that time due to injury.

This past season, Zumwalt was second on the team in tackles with 93 and was third in tackles for a loss with 5.5 for 16 yards. He finished the season with two interceptions for 46 yards and had three forced fumbles. In the Sun Bowl against Virginia Tech, he knocked Hokie Quarterback Logan Thomas out of the game with a brutal hit, and even had a 43-yard interception return.

Combine Statistics

Grade: 5.25

The 40: 4.76 sec

Vertical: 33.0 inches

Broad: 116.0 inches

3-Cone Drill: 6.99 sec

20-Yard Shuttle: 4.25 sec

Why Zumwalt Will Be An Asset

Jordan Zumwalt is the inside linebacker that every coach wants. He is disciplined and patient, but also intense in his game. When he hits, it is to knock you off of your game, if not out completely. He knows how to use his space and how to look big doing it. He can easily catch on to offenses and be a threat to the them they entire game.

What Zumwalt Has To Improve On

Zumwalt will have trouble in pass coverage with faster opponents. His expertise is in the middle of the field, so if he gets dragged out of that zone, he will be exposed. As many pro prospects, he can do with bulking up, so investing in training regimen that could make him a solid body should be a priority for him. Not the greatest in pursuit, but can cut off angles.

Summary

Zumwalt has the talent and the attitude to be an effective NFL inside linebacker. His skills may only need a season or two of development to get him a starting gig. He plays smart and will be a force, especially if he is drafted to a defensive-minded team. NFL.com has going Rounds 4-5 while CBSSports.com has him going in Round 4.

Mike W.R.

Twitter: @TheBigDisco