Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports
Sean Progar knows how to get to opposing quarterbacks.
The Northern Illinois Huskies‘ defensive end accumulated 24 sacks during his four years for one of the MAC‘s better teams the last several seasons.
While he won’t be selected in the first round like fellow Huskie Larry English was in 2009 by the San Diego Chargers with the 16th overall pick – which is still the highest any Northern Illinois player has been selected in the NFL Draft – it sounds like Progar won’t be rushing quarterbacks on Sundays the way he has attacked signal callers for the last four seasons.
Progar is projected as an outside linebacker who can create a pass-rush in a 3-4 defense – similar to the expectations that were put on English when he arrived in San Diego almost four years ago. Progar’s height – standing in a 6-2 – gives him an advantage to get lower and use his athleticism to move past stronger offensive tackles.
Besides pass-rushing, Progar provides good run support, too. He recorded at least 10 tackles in three of his four years as a Huskie.
A good workout would raise Progar’s stock. He’s still projected as a second-day pick, but scouts will be watching to see how his 40-time goes since off the edge speed is vital in a 3-4 defense.
Progar managed to stay healthy throughout the duration of his career as a Huskie. He played in every game the last two seasons for the Huskies – which included two-straight MAC Championships.
But the biggest change will be Progar’s rushing stance, since he’s being moved from end to stand-up linebacker. He’ll have to workout in linebacker drills to show he’s capable of making this transition.
