Martez Wilson Scouting Report

Martez Wilson is a home-grown talent from Chicago playing for the University of Illinois. This Fighting Illini has all the measurables on paper that scouts dream of. Wilson is listed at 6'4 and 250 pounds; he also runs a sub-4.6 40 yard dash (which is rare at the inside linebacker position), but he also may move to outside linebacker at the next level.

In his first two seasons, Wilson played on instincts alone. He was inconsistent and didn't always play his assignment. All the smaller details of the game eluded him. But in his junior year, Wilson suffered a herniated disc in his neck, forcing him to miss the entire season. The NCAA granted him a medical redshirt waiver so he was still a junior for the 2010 season.

The redshirt year spent on the sidelines seems to have had a positive effect on his game as Wilson has played his position far better this season.

Wilson was highly productive in 2010 with 112 tackles, 4 sacks, 3 forced fumbles and 1 interception. He has the height to play inside or outside. For his size, he plays very fast with speed and quickness. He will likely switch positions (as previously stated), but he adapts very quickly as evidenced by the fact he has played different linebacker positions and defensive end.

He will need to improve his ability to read and react to plays as he sometimes gets caught up in over pursuit. When at full speed, his fundamentals will need to improve since he tends to play a bit out of control. He forgets to wrap up and relies on his velocity to make an impact tackle rather than break down to tackle the ball-carrier. Ultimately, he may not be a player who can contribute immediately, but with some coaching would be very good.

Many scouts now view him as an outside linebacker, who in time, could slide back inside depending upon the defensive scheme.

Wilson projects as a high second round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft due to his versatility, athleticism and upside.