Stafford Gatling NFL Draft Profile --- December 10, 2010

Ohio defensive end Stafford Gatling (6-4/240) concludes that if he makes the transition from the college to the professional game, a position switch in the NFL is more than likely.

"I have to get ready to play OLB in the 3-4 defense," Gatling said via email yesterday. "My emphasis is on making that transition from playing DE to playing OLB."

The Bobcats, who fell to the Troy Trojans 48-21 in the New Orleans Bowl this past weekend, boasted one of the toughest defensive fronts in the nation. Along with Gatling, Dak Notestine, Ernie Hodge and Marcellis Williamson contributed to the team's success. All have pro potential.

"As a defensive front we played well together," Gatling said then added, "we had a lot of experience, being that we were seniors, and that was a key factor to our success."

"Since we've known each other for such a long time we have been able to build a great rapport. We did everything together from watching film to knowing what each other was capable of. So this all played a key role in our success this year."

Of course, credit also falls at the feet of defensive line coach Peter Germano. Several defensive linemen attained all-conference honors under Germano's tutelage, including Stafford Gatling who was a 2010 second-team All-MAC selection.

"Coach G has a special relationship with each player," the defensive end said. "He taught me a lot - from being a great football player to becoming a great man."

Prior to the New Orleans Bowl, Gatling tallied 46 tackles, 13.5 which were for a loss. He also ended with 6.5 sacks. "My senior season was one of my best but there are some areas I feel like I could improve on," he said. "I would of loved to rack up a couple more sacks but that's how the ball bounces."

Team-wise, Gatling was overall pleased with the Bobcats' season.

"As a captain this year I feel like the team looked to me for leadership. As a team this year, we had a pretty good season but it did not end the way we wanted. Two loses at the end hurt but overall it was a great season."

With his college career over, the Burlington, North Carolina native is now focused on his transition to the professional game.

"If God blesses me with the opportunity to have a chance to play at the next level I would definitely take it but I will not put all my eggs in one basket. That's why I am so proud that I received a Bachelor's degree in Health Service Administration with a minor in Business."

With solid pass-rush instincts and a knack for finding the quarterback, Gatling must now prove that he can play in space as he covers tight ends and running backs.

"I will focus on getting stronger and faster. Some key areas I may need to improve on are my footwork and just getting used to playing standing up. I have to get ready to play OLB in the 3-4 defense."