When I did my write-up on the Patriots draft last week, I had this to say about the Patriots fifth draft pick:

Nate Ebner, SS, Ohio State, Pick #197, 6’1 205 pounds
Another of Belichick’s bizarre picks, who’s very similar in size to Tavon Wilson. Again, not sure of Belchick’s angle on this one.

Well, the angle has become pretty damn clear. This kid basically didn’t play football at Ohio State – true he was their best special teams player, but he was first and foremost the best player on the rugby team.

The video above is pretty astounding – at this point it’s made its way around the web, but I figured I’d post it for those of you who haven’t caught it yet. I first saw this video last week, and I keep coming back to it. Not only is Ebner’s speed and ability to cut pretty astounding, but the ferocity of his tackles for a guy that’s only 6’1 205 is incredible. I have no doubt that this man orders his In-N-Out burgers with an extra side of animal sauce.

Better yet, I imagine that this kid wasn’t even on the radar of most teams, and for those that he was I’m sure more than a couple of scouts had the “he’s a rugby player, not a football player” conversation. All I know if I like what I see in this video, and I have no doubt that this kid is tough as nails.

A diamond in the rough? We’ll have to wait and see, but I’m sure excited to see what he can do.