POSITIVES

—Three-time team captain; the first at Syracuse since the 1890s.

—Fast linebacker seen running down top speed back Nyheim Hines in the open field.

—High-character leader whom coaches raved about to us.

—Athletic hips and feet allow him to cleanly move through space.

—Has natural play strength that lets him bench-press blockers off his frame.

—All-around athlete who looks the part on film.

NEGATIVES

—Short (6'0") for NFL standards at the position with average length.

—Can get washed down in the run game and struggles to stay clean.

—Maxed-out player who has seen a lot of snaps and collisions in the last three years.

—Can be late to start and will let the play run before he attacks.

OVERALL

Zaire Franklin somehow slid under the radar and wasn't invited to the combine, but his film and pro day numbers all point to a draftable prospect. He's a tad undersized, but his instincts and character are worth taking a gamble on.

GRADE: 5.40 (Round 7)

PRO PLAYER COMPARISON: Chris Borland, retired