The Leading Authority of the NFL Draft

Pros: Connor is among the most instinctive players in the 2008 draft--he reads and reacts well and is able to decipher what the opponents are doing…he’s simply a natural football player.  A classic, hard-nosed Nittany Lion linebacker, Conner possesses an outstanding motor and good athleticism, with the range to make plays all over the field.  Not only does he play the run well, Connor possesses the mobility and recognition skills to cover and the anticipation and closing speed to be an effective blitzer.  Connor is strong, with good hands and solid technique, particularly when squaring up to make the tackle. He has good size, but an even better frame with room to add some weight.  He has seen action both inside and outside and could project to either position at the next level.

Cons: Not the fastest or most athletically gifted player, you may not be able to pick Connor out of the bunch when stacked up against some of the other top linebackers and their physical attributes.  Connor is not the most fluid of linebackers, which is why his man cover skills need work.  In addition, he may have trouble engaging with bigger stronger linemen unless he adds some bulk and strengthens his lower body.  He was suspended for three games in 2005 for making prank phone calls to a former member of the football staff, but that seems to be an isolated incident as Connor has stayed out of trouble since then.

Overall: Connor finished his career as the university’s all-time career tackles leader after playing second-fiddle to Paul Posluszny (Bills) in his first three seasons in Happy Valley.  Connor busted out in a major way this past season and could actually end up being the better pro prospect of the two.  With the departure of Posluszny, Connor slid over from the outside linebacker spot to the coveted middle.  His adaptation to the inside will help strengthen his draft stock and when this versatility is combined with his speed, toughness and intangibles, Connor should translate to be an effective every down backer who can defend against both the run and the pass.

Murphy’s View: The nation’s best all-around senior linebacker, Connor is very tough, works to get through blockers, and will come back to make plays in pursuit if he is initially blocked. He can also make plays when asked to blitz. He needs to do a better job in the open field as he will leave his feet at times, but is strong in pass coverage.  While not a vocal leader in the locker room, his peers hold him in high regard.

Mogollon’s View: For three seasons, Connor was one of the most underrated players in the college game, but always someone scouts kept an eye on.  He will excel at the next level, as an every down linebacker.  Not a superstar talent in terms of measurables, so he would benefit from a strong defensive front.  Connor will be an above average linebacker in the NFL with a chance at making a few trips to Hawaii in the upcoming Februaries.

Medical Examiner: Connor has shown tremendous durability throughout his career, having never missed a game due to injury. He has also displayed courage and toughness, as evident with his willingness to play through pain as a junior when he broke his right hand, but did not miss any time.

Factoid: A senior tri-captain, Connor is the 14th player in Penn State history to earn First Team All-American honors twice.

Highlights of Accomplishments:
•    2006 & 2007 First Team All American
•    2006 & 2007 First Team All-Big Ten
•    2007 Bednarik Award Winner
•    2007 Nagurski Trophy & Lott Trophy Watch List
•    2004 Freshman All-American

Personal:  His two older brothers also played Division I football; Jim played at Boston College and Mike at Lehigh.

High School:  Attended Strath Haven High School in Wallingford, PA, starting all four years at linebacker and also logging time at running back.  Connor finished his career with 4,556 rushing yards and 77 touchdowns, as well as 451 tackles, 18 sacks, 16 interceptions, and six fumble recoveries.  Connor’s team won the 2000 Pennsylvania Class 3A State Championship and also played in the 2001 and ’02 championship games.  He was honored as a first-team all-state selection three times and also won the 2003 AP Big School Player of the Year Award.  He also lettered in basketball and track.

Major:  Crime, Law, and Justice

Quote of Note: “The reason I went to Penn State is ‘cause it’s “Linebacker U”. To be even mentioned in the same breath as Jack Ham, Paul Posluszny, Shane Conlin, that’s an unbelievable honor.”