2011 NFL Draft: UVA's Ras-I Dowling selected by the New England Patriots in the Second Round

Former Virginia cornerback Ras-I Dowling was selected as the first pick in the second round (No. 33 overall) by the New England Patriots!

This is a pretty surprising move for the Patriots, who just drafted CB Devin McCourty last year in the first round (McCourty, who made the Pro Bowl as a rookie!). Still though, this is great for Ras-I, who truly is first-round talent, but for an injury-plagued senior season.

Dowling's 6'1, 198 lbs and ran a 4.46, benching 19.0 reps. He's had great workouts, and clearly has the speed, athleticism and size to fit into Bill Belichick's system.

The Pats have three selections in the second round, so it will be interesting to see what else they come up with and why Ras-I's name gets called a little bit earlier than what most may have expected.

Congratulations, Ras-I and everyone over at Virginia Football! This is the 28th consecutive year that a Wahoo has been drafted to the NFL. You'll note that a Virginia player was selected before any Virginia Tech Hokies players were.

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