Analysis
Positives: Athletic build with good upper definition and the frame to add an additional 10 pounds without a significant loss of speed. ... Instinctive defender. ... Attacks the line against the run. ... Good change of direction and rare speed for the position in coverage. ... Good open-field tackler with the body control to break down in space and make the sure tackle. ... Flashes some explosiveness as a hitter. ... Good timing on the blitz and shows an ability to close when the ball is near.
Negatives: Physical, but might be better on the perimeter than the inside. ... Flashes strong hands to disengage from blocks, but often resorts to running around them rather than facing them up. ... Generally a wrap-up tackler, but will lower his shoulder to lay a big hit and sometimes slip off.
Overview
An athletic linebacker who made the move from outside to inside linebacker last season with spectacular results -- earning first team SEC accolades in leading the conference with 140 tackles. Mayo's speed and size may cause scouts to consider moving him back outside at the next level, but he seemed to gain more and more confidence at his new position as the season wore on, averaging 15 tackles over his final four games.
High School
PrepStar All-America ... Named All-State and first-team All-District ... As senior in 2003, recorded 110 tackles including 18 for loss and two interceptions ... Also played running back for seven games as senior, picking up 1,245 rushing yards and scoring 13 touchdowns and five two-point conversions ... Garnered first-team All-District, All-Area and All-Region honors as junior in 2002 while recording 68 tackles including 22 for loss, four interceptions and three sacks ... Three-year starter at both linebacker and running back.