Linval Joseph

Joseph's name was not expected to be on the league's final list of 53 underclassmen declaring for the draft, but NFL teams are likely to be happy it was. The former Florida state weightlifting champion and all-state football star decided to leave the Pirates, at least partially due to head coach Skip Holtz leaving ECU for Tampa to take over at South Florida. The first-team All-Conference USA performer (60 tackles, 22 solo, 13 for loss, three sacks) combines strength and an ability to pressure the quarterback very rarely found in someone his size. He was an immediate contributor for ECU, making 40 tackles, 8.5 for loss, with four starts in 13 games as a freshman. Joseph then earned honorable mention all-conference honors with 43 tackles, eight for loss, and 2.5 sacks. Joseph's potential is intriguing, but there are questions about his functional strength and stamina, which could limit his value to some teams. Others might end up drafting him higher than his ability warrants because of a pressing need at the position.

strength

Does not play as strong as you would think because he plays high and does not consistently use his hands to disengage. Does not reset his hands, get leverage by getting his hands under pads, or attempt to churn his legs after contact to push his man into the backfield.

explosion

Surprising quickness off of the snap for his size, gets into his gap in a hurry when fresh. Does not deliver much pop to his opponent with his hands on initial contact, however, relying on athleticism to get the job done.

tackling

Length and wide body allows him to engulf players in his path. Gives effort to chase, can be effective when well rested. Gets a lot of assisted tackles because of his hustle. Does not sink his hips when approaching the ball, however, and is easily eluded by quicker players in space.

intangibles

Part of a rotation inside, possibly due to stamina issues. Looks to be winded when playing two consecutive series. Dropped 70 pounds after his freshman season (came to EUC at more than 370 pounds) due to a back injury, regained 20 before 2008 season.

run defense

Adequate anchoring against double-team blocking due to thick legs and a wide upper body and will move to the ballcarrier after he's through the line. Can be moved and doesn't rip off blocks to stop the play before it starts. Willing to chase down the line and downfield between the tackles if he sees the ball in his area. Susceptible to the cut block. Not strong enough to arm tackle backs in the hole.

pass rush

Looks like a nose tackle but plays like a three-technique, penetrating and getting consistent pressure when fresh. Good closing speed for his size, swallows up quarterbacks that lack great elusiveness. Straight-ahead runner, however with limited lateral quickness, will not break down to change direction in the backfield.

A four-year letterman for the Raiders

A two-time all-state selection (Class AAA) as a junior and senior for prep coach Scott Pritchett

An all-region choice who additionally earned a three-star rating by Rivals.com

Rated as the No. 44 tackle nationally according to Rivals.com

Considered among the region's top prospects and among the top 500 overall prospects in the country (deemed to have pro potential and ability to make an impact on a college team)

Ranked as the 59th top recruit out of Florida

Featured in the 2007 Rivals.com Recruiting Yearbook

Rated No. 76 in Florida by SuperPrep Magazine

Timed at 5.0 in the 40-yard dash

Recorded lifts of 415 (bench press) and 560 (squat)

In all, earned a total of 10 varsity letters (three each in track and weight lifting)

Captured the Florida State Weightlifting Championship as a junior with a 415-pound bench press and a 320-pound clean jerk

Also advanced to the state finals and competed in the shot put and discus events.

Full name is Linval Clement Joseph

Born October 10, 1988 at Christiansted, Virgin Islands

Son of Ernestine Johnson

Plans to major in building construction with a possible minor in biology

Nickname is June.