Linebacker Willie Gay Jr. is projected to be a day two or three pick in the 2020 draft. Coming out of high school, Gay was a four-star recruit and the second-highest recruit in the state of Mississippi in the class of 2017.
College Career: Gay played at Mississippi State and he played well at times, but other teams he got into some trouble. He was suspended for NCAA rules violations and he also got into an altercation with starting quarterback Garrett Shrader. When he was on the field he was a game-changer, but the big question now is will he be able to stay in the NFL.
Pros: Gay Jr. is an explosive football player, and when he closes on an offensive player he does it in a hurry. He does a good job in coverage and his quickness gets him to places before the hole closes. Gay should be an every-down player in the NFL, and they're really would be no reason to take him off the field if he improves a few things. Gay also was an elite Blitzer in college, and he could end up being one of the better blitzing linebackers in the country.
Cons: There are some red flags that are concern with Gay. He served some suspensions in college and at times, sustained production was an issue. Against the run, he also sometimes struggles to make just the average play.
Projected Teams: There is some risk with Gay but the Denver Broncos are a team that could really use him if he stays out out trouble. The Broncos are a team that already has a good defense and adding Gay would only improve that.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are another team that could use some depth at linebacker, and he would be a great asset. The big question NFL teams need to figure out is if they can trust him to stay on the field. Most believe he can, but that's for every team to decide.
AUTHOR: Shane Mickle
Mitch's Take...
