Ronald

Powell

Powell is behind Junior Galette, Parys Haralson, and Victor Butler for snaps in the Saints’ base defense, but has potential to make a rookie-year impact as a situational pass rusher. At 6'3/237, he’s a strong fit in DC Rob Ryan’s 3-4 scheme. Haralson is expected to be the early-down starter on the strong side, so Powell will need to beat out Butler for a sub-package role.

A former top high school recruit, Powell suffered two ACL injuries during his disappointing career at Florida. He ran 4.65 at the Combine with a 9-foot-6 broad jump and has enough upside to compete for a sub-package role. If he can put together a strong camp, Powell should emerge as a situational pass rusher.

Powell (6-foot-3, 237) arrived at UF as the nation’s No. 1 overall recruit in 2010 -- ahead of the likes of Keenan Allen and Sharrif Floyd -- but endured a disappointing college career. He missed all of 2012 after twice tearing his left ACL, before managing four sacks and seven tackles for loss as a redshirt junior in 2013. Powell declared for the pros and ran 4.65 at the Combine with a 9-foot-6 broad jump. If Powell can humble himself and stay healthy, he still has enough potential to become an impact NFL defender, likely as a role-playing “sub-rusher.” He’s a fit in Rob Ryan’s 3-4 defense.