Nate Irving Scouting Report

Nate Irving has battled some major obstacles throughout his collegiate career, but when he has been on the field, the 6-1 linebacker has been an extremely productive player. As a redshirt freshman in 2007, Irving emerged as an impact player for North Carolina State. He was not on the field too often early in the year, but 27 of his 52 tackles during that season came during the last four games. By 2008 Irving was ready to step into a full-time starting role. He did just that and had a superb season. Unfortunately Irving missed some time with an ankle injury, but he still ranked third on the team with 84 tackles and led the Wolfpack with four interceptions. Despite missing the better part of four games, Irving was still an honorable mention All-ACC performer.

That led to some high expectations in 2009, but football was not important after Irving was involved in a serious car accident. In late June, the accident resulted in a compound fracture, a collapsed lung, a broken rib and a separated shoulder. Irving's football future was in doubt, but by the winter he was back and getting ready for the 2010 season. And Irving is back and leading NC State this season. Through nine games he leads the team with 65 tackles, 10.5 tackles-for-loss and eight quarterback hurries.

Irving's ability to come back from life threatening injuries is an inspiring story. He is obviously a very tough individual and hard worker and any NFL team would be happy to have him. At the next level he can make an impact on special teams and work his way into the regular rotation at inside or outside linebacker. That versatility makes him an intriguing option for some defensive schemes and he could be a good value in the middle rounds for the right team.