Georgia junior defensive end Justin Houston declared for the 2011 NFL Draft and is expected to be converted into a 3-4 outside linebacker in the pros.

His 2010 season was the most impressive; Houston was in on 56 total stops, brought down the quarterback 10.0 times and recorded an interception. 

Strengths

• Size (6-foot-2 7/8, 270 pounds) and speed combination (4.70-second 40-yard dash)
• Wingspan
• Locates the ball carrier rather quickly

• Making the move to 3-4 OLB

  Good closing speed
• Fierce hitter
• Plays balanced and shows flexibility coming around the corner
• Explosive edge rusher
• Team leader with humility

Weaknesses

• Not very instinctual in coverage or in read-and-react situations
• Suspended first two games of the 2009 season for violating team's substance-abuse policy
• Needs to improve his hand usage
• One-trick pony - limited pass-rushing repertoire 
• Doesn't hustle to the whistle

Expected draft placement

Expect several teams to consider Houston after the middle of the first round. He could be selected by the Baltimore Ravens (No. 26), a team desperately in need of a young, pass-rushing force on the outside. The New England Patriots (No. 28) and New York Jets (No. 30) are also strong options to select him.