Mario Harvey - OLB

College: Marshall
Height: 5-11   Weight:257

Projection: 4th to 6th round

Mario Harvey has racked up some impressive statistics as a 3-year starter for the Thundering Herd.  During his time in college he amassed 419 tackles, 35 of these for a loss, and he has 20 sacks.  Known as "Thumper" by his teammates, this does not refer to the cute bunny in a Disney film but to his tendency to deliver punishing hits.

Browns Gold

For a man of his size, Harvey  is quick having reportedly been timed at 4.35 seconds in the 40-yard dash.  He was not invited to the Combine but has been confirmed at 4.46 at his pro day--still very good speed for 257 pounds.  He is a great run stuffer and plays with intensity and a non-stop motor.  Harvey is a hard worker who is considered to be very coachable and who exhibits excellent leadership.  He has a nose for the ball and always seems to be around the center of any play.

Fools Gold

Harvey distinguished himself in college but not against top competition.  He is not great in coverage and needs work on his  general football sense.  Though he has exceptional speed, he does not seem to be particularly fast on the field.  He is somewhat short for his position at only 5-11.  There is a question about how much upside he might have at the next level.  If he has peaked, he will likely end up on special teams or as a backup linebacker.

Mario Harvey would not be considered much of a find except for the fact that he has distinguished himself in collegiate play and he has top intangibles.  The main thing that makes him notable is that he might be able to be picked as late as the 6th or even the 7th round.  What is risky at a higher position in the draft becomes a much better prospect later when expectations are low.  If the Browns have their big needs filled by later in the draft, picking up Harvey would not be a bad idea.