If the timing of Devin White’s declaration for the 2019 NFL Draft didn’t tip you off, Ed Orgeron explained how difficult the decision to leave school early was for the program’s outstanding junior defender.

White waited until the very last day possible to declare himself eligible for the 2019 NFL Draft. That move appears to be a wise one that will soon pay off for the linebacker as most have him pegged among the first prospects that will be selected in the NFL’s upcoming draft.

It isn’t just draft pundits making those bold claims, either. According to Coach Orgeron, with all 32 NFL teams sending representatives to Baton Rouge for LSU’s Pro Day event on Friday, many of those on hand made a comparison for White that suggests they believe he could one day develop into a Hall of Fame player at the game’s highest level.

“A lot of the guys today were talking to me about comparing Devin to Patrick Willis. Obviously I coached Patrick at Ole Miss,” Orgeron said during his media availability from LSU’s Pro Day. “Both great character young men, both very fast, tough, physical. Obviously Patrick was an All-Pro and we do believe Devin is going to do that and more.”

What is it about White that drives him to be so great? Orgeron credits White with having an amazing work ethic and pride for his state and his university.

“He’s a country boy. Committed to LSU and was in the big show and worked his way and earned his way. He has great character, he has great drive,” Orgeron said. “Devin loves LSU. It was a hard decision for him to leave, he didn’t want to leave but he made the right decision. He’s going to be a top 5 pick, maybe. But I do believe being hungry, being humble is part of his makeup.”

Orgeron was then asked a follow-up regarding the comparisons between White and Willis, two of the best linebackers in recent SEC history, the LSU coach offered up his take on evaluation some offered up.

“One person told me, ‘Coach, this is Patrick Willis all over again.’ As far as character, as far as toughness, ability to run. I think those are the things they are talking about,” he noted.

No matter how high White is selected in the upcoming draft, if the team that gets him gets a pro player that matches the production that Willis gave the 49ers, that team will have won the 2019 NFL Draft.