Marcus Freeman Scouting Report

Marcus Freeman would be the star of most defensive units across the country, but at Ohio State he's often overlooked because of James Laurinaitis and Malcolm Jenkins. Freeman saw time on special teams as a freshman in 2004, then red shirted because of injury during 2005. When he returned in 2006 (his first year as a starter), he put together a solid season with 71 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 2 interceptions, and 6 passes broken up in coverage. He recorded a career high 15 tackles that year in the National Championship Game against Florida. His junior year saw another significant improvement in production, when Freeman tallied 109 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, 5 passes broken up in coverage, and 2 forced fumbles. He has had a chance to showcase his versatility while at Ohio State, showing he can play the weak side, strong side, or middle linebacker positions depending on what his team needs. The reason Freeman can move to any position and be so productive is his speed. Like his teammate Laurinaitis, Freeman also has the speed to tackle from sideline to sideline, and always swarms to the football. He is excellent dropping into coverage, and can smother tight ends, running backs, and even play against the slot. He is important to the Buckeye pass rush, because he can take away a team's check down option, forcing the quarterback to hold onto the ball. Freeman has had a down year (for him) stats wise, recording only 84 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and also broken up 4 passes in coverage this season. Freeman will likely be a third round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, but a productive off season and a good combine could vault him into the second round. Marcus Freeman played in January's Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. Freeman had a solid week of practice and impressed coaches with the fact that at the end of every play he always seemed to be around the ball. Freeman proved that to be true during the actual game as well, where he led all tacklers with 8. Marcus Freeman was impressive at the NFL Combine in February. His 4.74 second 40 yard dash time was slightly disappointing, but every one ran slow during the event. Freeman did however put up 30 reps on the bench press and notch a 37 inch vertical leap. He displayed the kind of strength and athleticism that has scouts realizing he can play any of the three linebacker spots if needed. He has a chance to sneak into the late second round, but will likely be drafted in the middle of the third round. Marcus Freeman was impressive all off-season, except for his disappointing 40 yard dash time at the Combine. He managed to wow scouts again at his Pro Day by lowering his 40 time to 4.51 seconds. Freeman has worked his way up draft boards and could be selected in the late second round, or early third round.