Following an outstanding season last year and drawing high grades from draft analysts, Texas Christian linebacker Paul Dawson struggled mightily at the NFL scouting combine.
Dawson ran the 40-yard dash in 4.93 seconds, slower than many defensive linemen, nearly as slow as the offensive linemen and not much faster than lumbering Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston. The 6-foot, 235-pound former junior college transfer also didn't look fluid in drills.
Dawson has also been dogged by character questions.
The Ravens met with Dawson at the combine to delve further into him, according to a source.
The Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year recorded 128 tackles, five sacks and four interceptions last season. He had 18.5 tackles for losses, three fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles.
Dawson answered critics about his sluggish combine via social media.
"I'm an awesome football player," Dawson wrote on Twitter. "The best/most productive linebacker in this draft. Not a track Star. #meet me on the field."
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