Baylor S Jalen Pitre
5-foot-11
198 pounds
Yahoo Sports’ 2022 NFL draft grade
5.69 — possible second-rounder; starter potential
TL;DR scouting report
Feisty, highly instinctive hybrid defender who will be a coaching staff’s dream … if it can figure out the best way to use him
The skinny
A 3-star Rivals recruit in the Class of 2016, Pitre committed to the Bears and stuck with his commitment after Matt Rhule replaced Art Briles as coach. Pitre played in all 12 games at linebacker, starting eight as a true freshman and totaling 37 tackles (three TFLs), one sack and one pass breakup. In 2018, he played in 13 games (one start), making 11 tackles (two TFLs).
In 2019, Pitre appeared in four games, making 12 tackles (1.5 TFLs) and one sack and taking a redshirt season (shoulder injury). He broke out in 2020, starting all nine games and totaling 60 tackles (13 TFLs), 2.5 sacks, two interceptions (both returned for TDs), four PDs and one forced fumble. Pitre started all 14 games in 2021, with 75 tackles (18.5 TFLs), 3.5 sacks, two INTs, seven PDs, three forced fumbles and three recoveries. He attended the 2022 Senior Bowl.
WACO, TX -NOVEMBER 27: Nove Jalen Pitre #8 of the Baylor Bears reacts against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the second half at McLane Stadium on mber 27, 2021 in Waco, Texas. Baylor won 27-24. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)
Upside
Turned in better-than-expected 40 time (4.46 seconds), with impressive 10-yard split (1.53)
Terrific short-area burst and agility
Tough target for blockers to hit squarely
Maximizes his physical skills to wear a ton of hats on Baylor defense
Great burst and effectiveness as a blitzer — always seems to make impact felt
Takes good angles to the ball
Reactive quickness to handle slot duties
Dangerous playmaker — 4 INTs last two seasons, two pick-sixes
Toughness is off the charts as a run…
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