Minnesota's Profile for Nate Triplett

Nate is a 2005 graduate of Delano High School in Maple Plain, Minnesota where he was selected to the SuperPrep Midwest Team, was ranked as the 13th-best defensive lineman and was named to the PrepStar All-Midwest Region Team. Nate was also ranked as the 86th-best overall linebacker by Scout.com and was named to the KARE-11 and Star Tribune All-Metro teams in 2004. Triplett was a second-team all-state choice by the Associated Press, a two-time all-conference selection, and he totaled 127 tackles with 22 tackles-for-loss, four sacks and four interceptions in 2004. He was also an Honor Roll student in high school.

Nate redshirted in 2005 for the Gophers, and in 2006 he played 5 plays in the last game of the season. In 2007, he saw action as a reserve linebacker and on special teams in all 12 games and totaled nine tackles (six solo) on the season. He also earned the Bobby Bell Award as the team’s top special teams player. During his redshirt junior campaign in 2008, Nate earned playing time in all 13 games with one start and totaled 31 tackles, two pass breakups, one tackle for loss and a fumble recovery. He also blocked a kick. He made his senior year his best in 2009, compiling 53 solos, 43 assist (96 TTs), 5.0 TFLs, 2 interceptions, 5 PBUs, 1 QBH, and 2 FRs.

Cross steps very smoothly and dances quickly to the sidelines. Drops pretty well into coverage, and covers pretty well. Has the size to match up efficiently with TEs. Solid range and instincts in coverage. Keeps blockers at bay with good arm extension and hand usage. Improving, and improved every year at Minnesota. Fairly good tackling form and showed this past season he can play at a high level with "the big boys" of the Big 10. Was much more of a play maker in 2009, and his improved confidence may take him to the next level.

Slightly overaged which reduces his upside. Average COD. Spies inside too much and lacks speed to makeup when caught inside. Misses some tackles because he guesses wrong at times and gets out of position. One year wonder. Not a great athlete.

Looks like a solid 6th round options for 4-3 teams looking for a big OLB who can cover some.

Your Projected NFL Draft Round: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Undrafted

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