As a true freshman at Minnesota in 2006, Lee appeared in 10 games a a reserve DE and recorded 11 tackles. In 2007, he became a starter at DE and was one of just three Gophers to start all 12 games. He led all Minnesota defensive linemen in total tackles with 40, a figure that ranked eighth on the team, and he finished fourth on the squad in tackles for losses with eight, including one sack. As a junior in 2008, Lee moved to middle linebacker and started 12 of 13 games and finished the regular season as the team’s leading tackler with 80 total tackles on the year. He also recorded four sacks, 5.5 tackles for losses, two interceptions, three fumble recoveries, a forced fumble and a pass breakup. He made his senior season his best this year, tallying 67 solo tackles, 47 assists, 9.5 TFLs, .5 sacks, 1 interception, 5 PBUs, 1 QBH, 1 FR, 2 BKs.
Strengths
Downhill thumper at MLB who has been more productive each year. Pro size and speed. Solid at the POA and tackles well. Plays fast. Penetrates gaps and makes plays in the backfield. Has experience at DE and can step up and play a 2-pt. DE in some sets. Recoils from initial contact with blockers and reloads rather than staying wired. Aware in coverage.
Weaknesses
A little bit straight-linish. Not real smooth dropping and doesn't have great COD and lateral agility. Not an elite run stuffer, or blitzer, or coverage guy. Looks like a converted defensive lineman at times. If used as a DE, he doesn't always finish that well when rushing the QB.
Projection
A poor man's Mike Vrable who can do a lot of things pretty well. Looks like a 3rd rounder based on his body of work with the Gophers, but agilityworkouts in the post-season could move him a full round in either direction.
Sorry, my attempt at humor.
