Defensive tackle prospect Star Lotulelei out of Utah received disheartening news at the Scouting Combine, when he was told that he cannot participate with the other linemen due to a heart condition that will need further testing, according to ESPN. The report says Lotulelei has a low Ejection Fraction, and his left ventricle was operating at 44 percent, which is well below the normal rate that can be as high as 70 percent. He will take more tests in Salt Lake City.
Lotulelei was a two-year starter in Utah, racking up 107 tackles, seven sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss in his career and was named first team All Pac-12. He was also named the Pac-12's number one defensive lineman in 2011, which is an award voted on by the conference's offensive lineman.
As recently as February 20th, ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. had Lotulelei projected as the fourth overall talent in the entire draft. His summary of Lotulelei read, "Can't be blocked one-on-one, period. He absorbs so much blocking help and frees up others, but he's not just a clogger, because he can show off a great burst and the ability to destroy plays. Has a great sense for disrupting the run game. Quick off the ball with great upper- and lower-body strength. Coaches rave." According to a mock draft by Kiper Jr., Lotulelei was projected to be chosen third by the Oakland Raiders, who were second to last in the NFL last year with just 31 sacks. Scouts Inc. has him ranked as their top prospect in the draft.
Lotulelei's agent, Bruce Tollner, told USA Today that he expects Lotulelei to participate in a full workout on March 20th at Utah's pro day. If after further consultation Lotulelei's condition is confirmed to be chronic, medical experts consider it an indication of heart damage, according to Christ Mortenson of ESPN.
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