Kelvin Sheppard Scouting Report

Sheppard is the unquestioned leader of the LSU defense, and that's something to write home about when you consider the SEC statistics. The Tigers are second in the conference (behind Alabama) in both total and scoring defense. They are No. 1 against the pass and sixth against the run. Through 12 games, Sheppard has 108 total tackles and 42 solos. The inside linebacker also has 11 tackles for loss, four sacks, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.

Sheppard is also one of LSU's most experienced players. He redshirted in 2006, played in all 14 games as a freshman in 2007, was a part-time starter as a sophomore, and has been a full-time starter ever since. The Stone Mountain, GA product has good size at 6'3'' and 240 pounds and he has been clocked as fast as 4.56 in the 40-yard dash. He is a sure tackler and an emotional leader, but he might have to improve his speed just a bit if he wants to be an elite force at the next level. Look for Sheppard to be a third-round selection in the 2011 NFL Draft.