2009 NFL Draft - Peria Jerry Scouting Report
by Clint Clearwater
NFL Draft Analyst


Prospect:  Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss.
Ht: 6'2 Wt: 299 40: 4.98

Strengths: He can shoot gaps with a deadly force.  He comes off the ball very fast and has great quickness.  Fast for his size.  He keeps his feet chopping when engaged with a blocker.  This shows great technique and enables him to overpower blockers.  Great play recognition.  Can use swim and bull rush moves well.  He is pretty well-rounded prospect; however, he is more of a pass-rusher than a run stopper. 

Weaknesses: He overpurses a lot.  Needs to work on rushing the passer under control.  Strictly a 4-3 defensive tackle.  Does not have a big frame.  He will often get tied up with blockers and taken out of the play.  Had arthroscopic knee surgery prior to the 2008 season, and has had injuries dating back to 2006.  Academic issues were a concern at Ole Miss.

Summary: Peria Jerry is a DT that can create chaos for opposing QBs.  He has a great motor, and great instincts.  I absolutely love seeing him chop his feet and overpowering blockers.  This is a great technique that is so basic, and yet many players often overlook it.  He will need to spend more time in the weight room than the average prospect because of his size and injury history.  Jerry is an excellent gap rusher and look for him to make a solid impact in any 4-3 defensive team; providing he stays healthy.       

Draft Projection: 1st round

Last updated - 4/19/09


• Abromowitz's 2009 NFL Mock Draft - 7 Rounds
• Cox's 2009 NFL Mock Draft - 6 Rounds
• Mock Draft Database