Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Darius Fleming (Notre Dame) - 2012 NFL Draft Pick #165 by SF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Darius Fleming (2012 NFL Draft)

College: Notre Dame

Position: Linebacker

Height: 6'2"
Weight: 250 lbs

Overview:

Darius Fleming was a standout linebacker for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, known for his athleticism and versatility on the field. As he entered the 2012 NFL Draft, he was projected to be a solid mid-round selection due to his skills and potential to contribute on both defense and special teams.

Strengths:

• Versatile Skill Set: Fleming demonstrated the ability to play multiple linebacker positions, making him a valuable asset for various defensive schemes.
• Good Speed and Agility: His quickness allowed him to cover ground effectively, making plays in both the run and pass game.
• Strong Tackler: He had a reputation for wrapping up and making solid tackles, reducing yards after contact.
• High Football IQ: Fleming's understanding of the game enabled him to read plays and react swiftly, contributing to his effectiveness on the field.

Weaknesses:

• Injury History: Fleming had some injury concerns during his college career that raised questions about his durability at the professional level.
• Inconsistent Pass Rush: While he had the potential to rush the passer, his effectiveness in this area was inconsistent, which could limit his role in certain defensive packages.
• Technique Needs Improvement: There were instances where his tackling technique could be refined, particularly when facing larger running backs or tight ends.

Draft Projection:

Fleming was projected to be selected in the 4th to 6th round of the 2012 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, intelligence, and versatility made him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps.

Potential Impact:

If drafted, Fleming was expected to contribute primarily on special teams initially, with the potential to develop into a starting linebacker as he gained experience and improved his technique. His ability to adapt to different roles could allow him to find a niche in the NFL quickly.