He also intercepted two passes. Though Spikes was generally considered the draft's second-best linebacker behind Georgia Tech's Keith Brooking, who Atlanta took with the No. 12 pick, his physical gifts may have been peerless. Either is above-average for a linebacker. When he hits you, people stay hit. At 6-foot, size is the only attribute Spikes lacks.
Ideal linebackers are about two inches taller.
But the Bengals believe Spikes' quickness, tackling skill and aggressiveness compensate for his stature. He'd put you right through that wall. Former Chicago Bears great Mike Singletary was 6-foot. But you don't find guys with his movement being that tall. Doug Hendrickson, who assists Spikes' agent, James Sims, expressed optimism about a quick signing.