K-State: Where Will Ryan Mueller Be Drafted
K-State Wildcat Defensive End Ryan Mueller has made his case as an NFL Draft prospect and will be waiting for his name to be called at the 2015 NFL Draft. The unknown for Mueller and everyone else is when his name will be called.
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The former K-State walk-on still has plenty of time to improve his stock, and a good showing at the NFL Combine would be a good way to start.
Mueller’s physical strength has been one of his biggest weaknesses, and lacking both the height and length of a NFL caliber defensive end he needs all the strength he can get.
Ryan Mueller enjoyed a productive four year career at K-State that got off to a bit of a slow start. In Mueller’s 2011 Freshman season he was only able to tally two tackles, one assist, a half sack, and a fumble recovery.
Mueller continued to improve in his 2012 Sophomore season as he notched 12 tackles, two assists, two sacks, six pass deflections, and two fumble recoveries.
Ryan Mueller had a breakout season, became a big name among Wildcat fans, and was recognized as one of the best defensive ends in the conference in his 2013 Junior season. He put up a monster 53 tackles, nine assists, 11.5 sacks, six pass deflections, four forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
The 11.5 sacks by Mueller in 2013 tied a K-State school record, and he also tied the single game sack record with three against Texas Tech. He also had 18.5 tackles for a loss which ranks 9th all time in school history.
Mueller was named a second team All-American, Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year, Burlsworth Trophy Simifinalist, and First Team All-Big 12 Honors.
Mueller looked poised for a monster 2014 Senior season, but was unable to live up to the expectations left by his Junior season. He ended the season with 28 tackles, 12 assists, six sacks, two pass deflections, and one forced fumble.
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His 2014 season was still respectable, being named to a second consecutive First Team All-Big 12. He was also named an Honorable Mention for Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year.
Mueller’s 119 career tackles and 15 pass deflections show that he could have a future in the NFL if he switches from a Defensive End to an Outside Linebacker.
He has been compared to Teddy Bruschi who found professional success when he converted from Defensive End in college to an Outside Linebacker in the NFL.
Mueller still has a lot of upside as an NFL prospect.
"Better change of direction abilities than expected and looks comfortable on his feet, leading many to believe his future might be at linebacker in the NFL. Exhibits a tremendous competitive nature and relentless pursuit with excellent recovery quickness, playing fast and controlled nonstop.-Courtesy of Dane Brugler of CBS Sports"
Ryan Mueller is currently projected as the 328th overall prospect, 29th Defensive End, and a 7th round or Undrafted Free Agent.
He will likely have to have a strong showing at the combine to guarantee a draft spot, but either way his best chance of making a team will be by excelling in special teams and converting to an Outside Linebacker.