Pittman showed a surprising burst off the snap during Senior Bowl practices, gaining an initial advantage against offensive tackles. However, he didn't show the leg drive or use of hands to make plays behind the line of scrimmage when opportunities were available. Also, Pittman rarely changes his tactic, electing to speed rush to the outside most of the time, leaving gaping holes for the draw or screen by rushing so far upfield. The strategy is an odd one considering Pittman's 6-foot-5, 272-pound frame and reputation as a better run defender than pass rusher.

One of the characteristics scouts look for in players is their ability to play in numerous schemes. Often players enjoy great success at the collegiate level because they fit well in the system. When a player proves to be a standout in two different systems, scouts usually reward that player with a high grade. Pittman originally signed with the University of Texas out of high school. He elected to transfer to LSU in part because of the death of his older brother, Cole, a teammate at Texas, in a car accident.

While his numbers at either school weren't eye-popping, his success at two programs recognized for churning out defensive line talent is impressive, making Pittman one of the more underrated defensive ends in this draft.

Pittman redshirted in 2002 with Texas, but saw action in 10 games the next year, recording 10 tackles and 2½ sacks. Following the tragic death of his brother, Pittman sat out the 2004 season in transferring to LSU. He has since started 25 of 26 games for the Bayou Bengals, the vast majority at right defensive end. Pittman might lack the speed off the edge to remain there at the next level, but his strength and pursuit make him a natural fit for the left side.

Positives: Solidly built athlete with marginal definition … Country-strong frame with room for additional growth … Instinctive defender who reads the action well and plays smart, disciplined football … Good strength at the point of attack … Rarely knocked off the ball, even against the double-team … Good overall use of hands to disengage from the block and make the play, even if he doesn't get credit for the tackle … Unselfish team defender … Makes plays when the opportunities are there … Pursues well and doesn't give up on the play.

Negatives: Lacks explosiveness off the snap and is only a marginal overall pass rusher … Can disengage from blocker when rushing the passer, but simply isn't the great athlete usually required for the right defensive end position … Works hard and may be maxed-out athletically, though his production could improve with added strength … Limited upside for the next level.

No injuries reported.

Combine: Did not receive an invitation.

A blue-chip defensive lineman and one of the top recruits in the nation as a senior at Evangel … Earned all-state honors during his junior and senior seasons … Played defensive end and tight end … Member of 2002 5A state championship team … Registered 63 tackles, including 14 for losses, and 6.0 sacks as a senior … Coached by Dennis Dunn.

Full name is Benjamin Chase Pittman … Born May 15, 1983, in Minden … Hobbies include hunting and fishing … General studies major.