South Florida defensive tackle Terrell McClain and Louisville cornerback Johnny Patrick became the fourth and fifth Big East players to be selected in the NFL Draft on Friday night. After Pittsburgh's Jabaal Sheard and Villanova's Ben Ijalana were selected in the second round, McClain was selected with the first pick of the third round (65th pick overall) by the Carolina Panthers. Patrick was selected with the 24th pick of the third round (88th overall) by the New Orleans Saints.
Both players should find their way on the field for their respective reams relatively quickly. Patrick is versatile enough to play in the Saints' attacking defense in multiple positions and nickel packages, while McClain heads to a Panthers team in total rebuilding mode that will welcome all of the young defensive talent that it can get its hands on. Head on over to Card Chronicle and USF Voodoo Five to congratulate Louisville and South Florida for having players drafted.
2011 NFL Draft Big East Selection Counter: Five (We're still claiming Ijalana)