Jalen Pitre was a linebacker in highschool and his first three years at Baylor.
Pitre was excited to have the freedom to play all over the field when Dave Aranda, Waco’s new coach, arrived.
It could not have been more perfect.
Pitre is a solid hitter who can stop the run and drop into coverage, or rush from the edge.
Aranda stated, “I believe that position is just for him because it’s both the linebacker/safety combination.” It highlights his ability blitz and his ability set the edge. He also has enough coverage responsibilities to keep everyone honest. He is a great leader and I believe the best is yet ahead.
SIZE & STATS
Baylor’s senior tackler, 6-foot and 197-pound, is the second-leading with 42 tackles, including 8.5 for loss. He also has two interceptions, and a fumble recover.
BIGGEST MOMENT
Many players experience one or two major moments during a season. Pitre seems to have one or two big moments every game because he is so dedicated and always on the ball.
Jim Nagy, Reese Senior Bowl executive director, stated that some men are inconsistent. He’s not the same guy every week. “He’s the same guy every single week.”
SCOUT’S TAKE
Pitre’s lack of size is compensated for by his hard-hitting mentality, and ability to see where the ball is heading. Pitre is a quick runner with a great speed. He is also a good blitzer and is not afraid to play the run game.
Nagy stated, “He’s a great player to watch and that is really the highest compliment I could give a player.” He is energetic and you don’t even have to look for him on tape. His urgency and tone setting for the defense is what will get you attention. He plays like his hair is on fire.”
DRAFT WATCH
Pitre is a mix of safety and linebacker in the NFL, but teams have used Pitre as a tweener. Because of his versatility and relentlessness, he could be taken on day two of the NFL draft. However, he may end up being selected on day three.
