NFL Draft Profile: LaBryan Ray, Defensive Lineman, Alabama Crimson Tide
#89
Pos: DL
Ht: 6040
Wt: 283
Hand: 0848
Arm: 3258
Wing: ____
DOB: 12/5/_
Eligible: 2022
Madison, AL
James Clemons
LaBryan Ray
Alabama Crimson Tide
Pros:
Long and violent strong side defensive end who lines up all over the line for Alabama. From shaded nose in pass rush packages to over tight ends in base, displaying his good athleticism. Ray snaps out of his stance, threatening tackles vertically before coming inside with a violent hump or quick swim move. At extension he outreaches blockers consistently, twisting them with his violent hands. He can two-gap with his length and ability to disengage quickly. His lateral range is very good on the inside. Ray plays hard and delivers a hit when he gets home. He is smart and disciplined, playing his responsibility against the run. In the quick game he gets his hands on the football, batting passes at the line.
Cons:
Has not been able to stay healthy, suffering two significant lower body injuries during his career. Has to convert speed to power with his length and size, which he does not, slowing his momentum before taking on blockers. Scheme specific player who a team will have to be willing to move around to get the most out of. Ray has been unable to grasp a significant role throughout his senior season.
Summary:
Good athlete with above-average length and violence who can line up all over the formation who is best at five-technique. Ray defends the run with his intelligence, strength and ability to control gaps at extension. He is too long and athletic for most guards to handle as a pass rusher on the interior. An inability to stay healthy, including suffering from two significant lower body injuries has prevented him from getting on the field consistently. He is unable to convert speed to power. Ray projects as a backup strong side defensive end if he can stay healthy. He can contribute in a rotation as a rookie.
Background:
Arguably the top player in the state of Alabama in 2017, Ray was a composite five star defensive lineman prospect. Put up ungodly numbers while in high school and finished one year with 25 TFL’s and 13 sacks. He was arrested in January of 2019 for public intoxication, just something to watch for going forward with Ray. Unfortunately, Ray’s potential has been hindered for most of his career as he has been slowed down by countless injuries. Ray suffered multiple foot/ankle injuries which sidelined him for the whole 2019 season, and forced him to use his redshirt. Came back in 2020 and battled injuries once again.
One-Liners
Versatile strong side defensive end who shows athleticism and violence when on the field. Ray has suffered from two significant lower-body injuries and has been unable to stay healthy throughout his career.
Grades
Current Player Value/Potential Player Value
6.7/7.4
Quotes:
"As far as my tape, I showed that I’m a player who can play multiple positions and puts the team first. I’m not necessarily a vocal leader, but I lead by example. I think I’m a player who’ll give it their all no matter what. I’m a player that coaches can rely on." LaBryan Ray on what he does well
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