Jaye Howard Scouting Report

Howard brings plenty of experience to the next level as a four-year career player at Florida featured 45 games played and 25 starts. The defensive tackle redshirted in 2007, played sparingly as a freshman in 2008, then became a part-time starter as a sophomore and junior. Howard's breakout campaign came as a senior in 2011, when he started all 13 games and finished fourth on the team with 65 total tackles. Howard was tied for second on the Gators with 10 tackles for loss and second with 5.5 sacks. He also recorded four quarterback hurries and two fumble recoveries. His performance earned him invitations to both the Senior Bowl and the NFL combine.

Howard has good size at 6'3'' and 292 pounds. He would do well to add some bulk, however, and his power off the ball must improve if he wants to consistently disrupt plays in the backfield. He generally runs around a 5.0 in the 40-yard dash and he has been clocked as fast as 4.93 from that distance. His quickness is what is going to make him a contributor of some sort in the NFL. Howard's first step is quick and that's what makes him a relatively dangerous pass-rusher. His motor is somewhat inconsistent and he will have to bring it on every play in order to make himself a viable option on a roster day in and day out. Howard's potential is real and he could help his stock bigtime with a strong showing at the combine. For now it looks like Howard should get drafted, possibly in the sixth round.