Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Joey LaRocque (Oregon St.) - 2008 NFL Draft Pick #243 by CHI

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Joey LaRocque

College: Oregon State University

Position: Linebacker

Strengths:

• Versatility: LaRocque demonstrated the ability to play multiple linebacker positions, showcasing adaptability in various defensive schemes.
• Football IQ: Known for his high understanding of the game, LaRocque was praised for his ability to read plays and diagnose offensive schemes quickly.
• Work Ethic: Coaches highlighted his dedication to improving his skills and his relentless pursuit of excellence on the field.
• Leadership: Served as a team captain, displaying strong leadership qualities and the ability to motivate teammates.

Weaknesses:

• Speed: While instinctive, LaRocque lacked elite speed which could be a concern in coverage against faster players in the NFL.
• Size: At around 6'1" and 225 pounds, some scouts worried about his size compared to other linebackers who were more physically imposing.
• Injury History: Had some past injuries that raised red flags regarding his durability at the professional level.

Overall Assessment:

Joey LaRocque was considered a solid linebacker prospect heading into the 2008 NFL Draft. His combination of intelligence, work ethic, and leadership made him an appealing option for teams looking for depth at the linebacker position. However, concerns about his speed and size led some analysts to question his ability to compete against elite athletes in the NFL. Ultimately, LaRocque was projected as a late-round selection, potentially providing value as a special teams player or a backup linebacker.