Bo Ruud analysis

ANALYSIS

The Patriots selected Nebraska LB Bo Ruud with their sixth-round pick (197th overall), adding their third linebacker in this draft. At 6-foot-3, 235 pounds, Ruud projects to inside linebacker in the Patriots' 3-4 scheme. The Patriots were likely attracted to his position flexibility, as he played weakside linebacker for his first three seasons at Nebraska, before switching to the strongside as a senior.

Ruud comes from a football playing family, so he isn't likely to be daunted by the long odds he faces to earn a roster spot. He was the sixth member of his extended family to play football at Nebraska. His brother, Barrett, plays for the Buccaneers. His father, Tom, previously played for the Bills (1975-77) and Bengals (1978-79).

If Ruud is to make the Patriots' roster, he'll first need to make his mark on special teams, which is usually the ticket for most late-round draft choices. Ruud has shown a knack for being around the ball.

The Patriots have a lot of options at linebacker, and Ruud now joins the mix. Here is the breakdown at the position (rookies in bold, players in italics can play both spots):

Inside
Eric Alexander
Tedy Bruschi
Victor Hobson
Larry Izzo
Jerod Mayo
Bo Ruud
T.J. Slaughter
Adalius Thomas

Outside
Shawn Crable
Victor Hobson
Adalius Thomas
Mike Vrabel
Pierre Woods