Perez Ford, DE, Northern Illinois
Referred to as some scouts as the “Kahlil Mack 2.0,” at 6’0″ and 227 lbs, Perez Ford was originally projected to be a 3-4 outside linebacker at the NFL level. However, a recent and positive jump in Ford’s playing weight may alter that perception.
Ford was dealing with an ankle injury during his Pro Day, so did not participate in drills, thus having him decide to hold his own personal Pro Day for NFL teams.
“I just wanted to show everyone that my ankle is good, I am better,” said Perez on his private workout in front of NFL teams. “There’s no problems there. As a linebacker, I wanted to show that I can drop in space and move fluidly. That’s not a problem for me.”
According to Ford’s agent, during his weigh in at this private workout he had “put on 12 pounds of solid muscle since his Pro Day,” meaning sticking him at the 4-3 defensive end slot just became a lot more likely.
Per a source, the Giants were one of the 20 or so NFL teams that attended the private workout as they continue to search for weapons to replenish their pass rushing arsenal.
“My football I.Q., easily,” said Ford when asked what his greatest strength was a football player. “During the week before any game I know what is coming at me. I know what to anticipate.”
Ford will finish his four-year career with Huskies after tallying 120 tackles, 14 sacks, 24.5 tackles for a loss, five forced fumbles, and three passes defended.
A devastating edge disruptor, Ford is an athletic force who uses his quickness to get around opposing blockers. His size was a question mark for some NFL teams, although the work he has shown to add all that new weight is a positive sign, not only for his potential immediate impact in the league, but for his commitment to his craft.
Ford projects a mid-round pick, possibly going as high as the third round.
