Yannick Ngakoue

Ngakoue was second in the FBS in sacks (13.5) and led the Terrapins in tackles for loss (15.0) and quarterback hurries (seven) when he announced on Nov. 30 that he would skip his senior season and enter the NFL Draft. "While the last three years have been unforgettable and I would love nothing more than to come back for another season, I have decided to forgo my final year of eligibility to pursue my lifelong dream of playing in the NFL to compete at the next level," Ngakoue wrote in a letter that he posted on Twitter. "I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting me during my time at Maryland." A native of Bowie, Maryland, Ngakoue (pronounced IN-gah-kway) became a starter last season as a sophomore and earned All-Big Ten Honorable Mention honors. As a junior this past year, he developed into a standout pass rusher for the Terps off the edge with at least one sack in 10 straight games. His 13.5 sacks in 2015 set a new school record. "We are thrilled for Yannick and his family that he has made this decision to pursue his lifelong dream of playing in the NFL," said interim head coach Mike Locksley. "After speaking with Yannick and his family, he feels that he is prepared to take this step in his football career and we support his decision. We wish him well and look forward to seeing him compete at the highest level." One of the priorities for former Terrapins coach Randy Edsall was to recruit the local talent in and around the D.C. area and by convincing Ngakoue to remain close to home rather than sign with Florida State, South Carolina or West Virginia, he and the Terps accomplished that goal. Ngakoue flashed big-play ability immediately for the Terrapins, recording an interception in his first game (Old Dominion) and enjoying splashy performances against former ACC rivals Clemson (three tackles for loss, one sack) and Virginia Tech (half a sack, forced fumble) as a freshman.

in our view

Ngakoue is a classic 'tweener with the burst to challenge tackle's reach but only playing strength at this time, making him a stud against the pass but a dud versus the run. His instincts have improved from last season, playing with more purpose and awareness against the run and pass, alike, in 2015, leading to optimism that he may just be scratching the surface of his potential.

strengths

Ngakoue has the edge athleticism to burst off the snap and threaten the corner with quickness and flexibility. He has an active and powerful hand slap and good lateral agility to keep opponents from latching on. He stays balanced in his movements to easily change directions and make an impact in pursuit, showing an explosive burst to close when the ball is near. He possesses a compact, athletic build and flashes the power to anchor when he keeps his pad level low. Ngakoue has experience rushing off the edge from either side and on stunts, showing the balance, agility and quickness to project as an immediate impact rusher in the NFL.

weaknesses

Ngakoue is a bit of a one-trick speed rusher at this time, with only 1.5 of his 15 tackles for loss this season coming in the running game. He's reliant on his initial burst and agility to gain him freedom immediately and struggles to disengage, too often being driven completely out of the play when blockers are able to grab hold. Too often he is effectively sealed off by tight ends in the running game. He doesn't have ideal length for the position and needs to develop his functional strength to match power-with-power. Maryland moved him around a lot, helping to manufacture his production. Typically lined up in the three-point stance and may struggle acclimating to a two-point stance if asked to be a stand-up rusher.

At Friendship Collegiate Academy

Named a first team Parade All-American and the 2012 D.C. Gatorade Player of the Year

rated a four-star recruit by Rivals, No. 11 outside linebacker

labeled a four-star recruit by 247Sports.com

ranked a three-star recruit by ESPN.com

played in the Under Armour All-American Game

earned first team All-Met honors in 2012 by The Washington Post while totaling 17 sacks

helped lead Friendship Collegiate to the DCSAA title as a senior

played for the South Team in the Chesapeake Bowl

also considered South Carolina, Florida State and West Virginia

coached by Aazaar Rahim.

Born in Washington, D.C.

mother is Marlene Chantelly

honor roll student

worked as a volunteer with the homeless and helped mentor children

majoring in African American studies.