Raiders rookie scouting report: DE Shelby Harris

Shelby Harris, DE, Illinois State (Round 7, pick 235)

Stats:

Shelby Harris began his collegiate career at Wisconsin. But before his career could begin, he was suspended for a violation of team rules and transferred to Illinois State.

In 2010 as a redshirt freshman, he earned Missouri Valley Football Conference All-Newcomer Team selection after totaling 39 tackles, four tackles for loss and one sack. Harris switched to defensive tackle in 2011 and saw an increase in production. He finished the season with 49 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss and six sacks. In 2012, he earned First-Team All-MVFC honors after racking up 85 tackles, 16 tackles for loss (5th in MVFC), one interception and seven sacks.

Harris did not play in 2013 after being dismissed from Illinois State for conduct detrimental to the team.

Size:

At 6'2" and 288 pounds, Harris has tweener traits. He has gained 30 pounds since his playing days at Illinois State. Because of this, Harris can play both defensive end and defensive tackle with the Raiders. He has extremely long arms 34 5/8" that are valuable for a defensive lineman.

Character:

This is a huge concern that comes with Harris. He was dismissed from not one, but two schools during his four year collegiate career. He was kicked out of Wisconsin for violating team rules and later was expelled from Illinois State for conduct detrimental to the team. If not for his character concerns, Harris may have been a fourth round pick. While he claims he has matured, actions speak louder than words.

Analysis:

Because Shelby Harris comes from a small school and did not play last year game film is hard to come by. He does not even have a highlight film online. I have requested film from the Illinois State Athletic Department, but have had no luck.

Here is the scouting report according to NFL.com

STRENGTHS Very long arms. Can extend, tug and rip off blocks. Good athleticism, feet and balance. Shows the ability to reduce his body and get in gaps. Competed well as an undersized interior player. Generally locates the ball. Gives effort in pursuit and chases outside the box. Nice closing burst. Strong tackler who generates pop on contact. Lined up inside and outside. Good potential as a run defender.

WEAKNESSES Lacks ideal height. Average quickness off the snap. Can play with more consistent leverage and technique -- exposes his frame and needs to develop pass-rush moves and counters. Did not consistently dominate and disappeared for stretches. Character requires investigation -- was dismissed from two schools (did not play in 2013). Maturity, work ethic and dedication should be looked into.

DRAFT PROJECTION Round 7-Priority free agent

BOTTOM LINE Harris, who began his college career at Wisconsin, is a short, long-armed, inconsistent defensive lineman who, at his best, offers glimpses of athleticism, strength and versatility. However, his 'tweener traits and character red flags could knock him off draft boards and prevent him from fulfilling his potential. At his pro days, weighed in approximately 30 pounds heavier than his playing weight in 2012.

This is the only video I could find of Shelby Harris.