LB Ryan Stamper (Florida) - Undrafted Free Agent*
The Lions were all set to bring Ryan Stamper in as an undrafted free agent, but he had a health issue, preventing him from inking a deal and participating in the Lions' rookie minicamp. Since then I personally haven't heard anything about Stamper's status, but I believe the plan was for him to sign a deal once he is healthy enough to pass a physical. That is also the case for Miami safety Ryan Phillips, who was going to sign but had a health issue prevent that from happening.
*Once he officially signs.
Experts' Opinions
Positives: Hard-working, run-defending linebacker with poor size/speed numbers. Remains disciplined with assignments, effectively diagnoses the action, and moves well laterally to the sidelines in pursuit of the ball handler. Aggressive, works hard to get involved, and is an effective open field tackler. Breaks down well, effectively uses his hands to protect himself, and displays a good change of direction.
Negatives: Displays limited quickness to his game and shows little burst. Blocked from the action by tight ends. Struggles in coverage.
Analysis: Stamper is a hard-working prospect and productive college linebacker who does not project all that well to the next level. He has a special teams mentality and could back up on the inside for 3-4 alignment.
Stats
2006: 4 tackles
2007: 21 tackles
2008: 35 tackles
2009: 73 tackles, 1 FF, 2 INT
Videos
Miscellaneous
- Stamper preparing for NFL Draft (Orlando Sentinel)
- Ryan Stamper determined to make NFL after injury derailed draft plans (Orlando Sentinel)
- Florida linebacker Ryan Stamper leads by steady, consistent example (St. Petersburg Times)
Outlook for 2010
Stamper was one of the big-name undrafted free agent signings simply because he was Florida's leading tackler in 2009. Many thought that he had the best chance of making the team out of all the UDFAs. That was before we found out he was still injured, though, keeping him from participating in the rookie minicamp and now the OTAs. It's tough enough for UDFAs to make the team in general, but to do it after being injured and missing out on all of this valuable experience is really going to make it tough. Stamper definitely has potential, but the more time he misses, the more of a long shot to even compete for a spot on the team he becomes.
Previously: Ndamukong Suh, Jahvid Best, Amari Spievey, Jason Fox, Willie Young, Tim Toone, Matt Clapp, Mike Moore, Contrevious Parks, Richard Dickson, Chima Ihekwoaba, Robert Callaway