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By Dane Brugler Feb 15, 2019
Although the “historic” descriptions of this defensive tackle draft class are exaggerated, it is a solid group, especially at the top.
In my opinion, Alabama’s Quinnen Williams is a legitimate No. 1 overall pick contender and the only NFL prospect on the same tier as Ohio State edge rusher Nick Bosa. Williams has the skill set to do just about anything you need on the defensive line, which is part of the reason he will be coveted on draft day.
The defensive tackles after Williams are more specialized and won’t fit every scheme or situation, but there are several first-round options. After the first 32 picks are complete, five or six defensive tackles could be off the board.
These rankings are based on tape study and all-star games and will be updated and expanded after the scouting combine (along with testing numbers and round projection). The number in parenthesis after each prospect’s date of birth is his age (to the nearest hundredth) on draft day. [h=3]1. Quinnen Williams, Alabama (6-4, 296, 5.02)[/h] [h=4]Birmingham, Ala. (Wenonah), RS Sophomore, 12/21/1997 (age 21.36)[/h]
Strengths: Explosive get-off to immediately reset the line of scrimmage … controlled, cat-like quickness to win off the snap, redirect or close in short areas … lateral agility and clean weight transfer as a pass rusher … uses a variety of swipes, rips and club moves to break the rhythm of blockers … naturally powerful and creates surge with his upper body … creates knockback and steers blockers where he wants … uniquely skilled at keeping blockers off him, using hand tactics and length … holds the point of attack and doesn’t get moved … understands gap leverage and how to exploit it … comfortable two-gapping and handling double-teams … above average ball awareness … sees through blocks and reacts to the ball, not the blocking scheme … accountable and “exemplifies all the things I talk about,” according to Alabama head coach Nick Saban … works his tail off and owns a genuine love for the game.
Weaknesses: Doughy body type and would benefit from added bulk … only average arm length … occasionally finds himself out of control mid-rush, leading to missed tackles … only one season of production at the college level.
Summary: A one-year starter at Alabama, Williams took over for the departed DaRon Payne at nose guard in Saban’s three-man base and emerged as one of college football’s most dominant players in 2018. He finished the season in the top 10 in the FBS and second in the SEC with 19.5 tackles for loss and didn’t have an “off” game. With his snap quickness and handwork, Williams has a natural feel for defeating blocks, and his teammate Jonah Williams hit the nail on the head when he described facing Williams as trying to block a “300-pound bar of soap.” He is a power-packed player from head to toe, competing with the violence, hustle and awareness to be an elite run defender. Overall, Williams was not only blessed with a complete skill set with his explosiveness, strength and intelligence, but he also has the rare ability to use all his gifts in unison, projecting as an immediate NFL starter with All-Pro potential. [h=3]2. Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State (6-3, 311, 5.08)[/h] [h=4]Macon, Miss. (Noxubee County), Junior, 7/28/1997 (age 21.76)[/h]
Strengths: Impressively developed physique with filled-out muscle and under 15 percent body fat … heavy-handed and manhandles blockers with brute power … shows grown-man strength at the point of attack, digging in his cleats and handling double teams … uproots blockers with a forceful bull rush … elite contact balance and rarely displaced … pounces out of his stance … athletic for his size and looked comfortable dropping in space … lateral quickness and fluidity to loop around blocks … uses his meat hooks to swipe and create rush lanes … quickly finds the ball carrier when engaged … showed improved attention to fundamentals over the last three years … owns the physical mindset to bounce around with offensive linemen for four quarters … blocked three career kicks on special teams … two-time SEC Academic Honor Roll with a cumulative GPA over 3.0 … his 32.5 career tackles for loss ranks sixth best in school history.
Weaknesses: Excellent short-area quicks but not fast or rangy … inconsistent snap timing … tends to flow with the action instead of anticipating … not a polished pass rusher and needs to better set up his moves … arrested and charged for simple assault (March 2016) after a video captured him punching a woman several times following a dispute between the victim and Simmons’ sister at the apartment complex where Simmons lived with his mother; Simmons pleaded no contest and apologized for his role (Simmons: “Honestly, I wasn’t thinking, all I could think was this is my family and I’m supposed to defend my family”); Simmons was suspended for one game with several conditions attached to his enrollment … suffered a torn ACL in his left knee (February 2019) while training for the scouting combine.
Summary: A three-year starter at Mississippi State, Simmons made an immediate impact at the college level, primarily as a nose over the A-gap, and teams had to alter their game plans to run plays away from him. He wears the classic neckroll, which brings back flashbacks of Pro Football Hall of Famer Charles Haley with the way he tears through blocks. Simmons is a naturally powerful human and passes the eye test with flying colors, rarely losing a one-on-one matchup and forcing constant double teams. He isn’t a sudden first-step athlete and needs to develop as a pass rusher, but he plays with violence and has the power to win once he gets going. Based on talent alone, Simmons is one of the best players in the 2019 NFL Draft class, but his character grade will be hotly debated because of the disturbing video where he punched a woman already on the ground. In the three years since the incident, he kept his nose clean, did well in school and Mississippi State coaches and administrators speak very highly of his maturity, which will keep him on several draft boards around the league. Overall, Simmons is a power-packed player with natural ease of movement to stay balanced at contact, reset the line of scrimmage and hunt the ball carrier, projecting as an immediate NFL starter with Pro Bowl upside for a team willing to accept his baggage. His pre-combine ACL tear will likely sideline him for the 2019 NFL season and drop him 15-30 spots on draft weekend. [h=3]3. Christian Wilkins, Clemson (6-3, 312, 4.98)[/h] [h=4]Springfield, Mass. (Suffield Academy), Senior, 12/20/1995 (age 23.36)[/h]
Strengths: Initial quickness to live in the opponent’s backfield … flexible hips and joints, contorting his good-sized frame and staying balanced through gaps … fluid redirection in pursuit with the chase speed to track down ball carriers … plays underneath blocks and keeps his lower body working to grind out movement … gap quickness helps clog things up in the run game … recognition skills reflect his experience … extensive experience on special teams coverages … scored three touchdowns (two rushing, one receiving) on offense … two-time team captain with the type of work ethic and intangibles that are “up there with Deshaun (Watson) since we’ve been here,” according to a Clemson assistant coach … graduated with a degree in communications (December 2017), becoming the first scholarship player in school history to graduate in two-and-a-half years … his 59 career games played is tied for the most in school history.
Weaknesses: Lacks ideal length and point-of-attack power … inconsistent shed technique and timing … can be bullied in the run game … inconsistent base strength and can be displaced by blockers, especially when his pads rise … doesn’t always replace his hands on his get-off, stalling his pass rush … always looking for an edge but developed a reputation for being a borderline dirty player due to questionable hits … older prospect (repeated his freshman year in high school) and will turn 24 years old during his rookie NFL season.
Summary: A three-year starter at Clemson, Wilkins worked his way into the defensive line rotation as a true freshman and was a key reason behind the Tigers’ two national titles the last three seasons. Lining up primarily over the B-gap, he became the school’s fifth unanimous All-American (2018) and the first Clemson player to win the William V. Campbell Trophy, also known as the Academic Heisman. Moving differently than most his size, Wilkins uses his loose lower body, contact balance and active hands in conjunction to squirt through gaps. His high-character intangibles will be a strong selling point for an NFL team looking for a high-floor prospect. Overall, Wilkins is an inconsistent run defender, but his quickness, body flexibility and ball awareness lead to backfield production, projecting as a penetrating three-technique in a four-man front. [h=3]4. Ed Oliver, Houston (6-2, 276, 4.86)[/h] [h=4]Houston, Texas (Westfield), Junior, 12/12/1997 (age 21.38)[/h]
Strengths: Fluid body control to wriggle off blocks … excellent foot quickness and change of direction skills … shot out of a cannon with his first step … forces holding penalties due to his gap quickness … creates knockback with his speed-to-power skills … ball awareness to track through blocks … uses natural leverage to stay underneath the pads of blockers … better than expected play strength as a run defender … highly aggressive motor and effort never wanes, chasing down plays near the sidelines … dominated from the moment he stepped onto campus and leaves as a three-time All-American, collecting 54.0 tackles for loss over 33 career starts.
Weaknesses: Lacks desired frame and length … needs to continue and develop his body and stay in the 280-285 pound range (weighed 274 for most of his final season at Houston) … relied more on motor than brute power to overwhelm blockers in college … not a bull rusher … undeveloped approach with his hands … below average counter measures once locked up … faced inferior competition in the AAC … several immature moments in college, including an on-field altercation with former head coach Major Applewhite regarding a coat issue on the sideline – young attitude and has “growing up to do,” according to a Houston assistant … missed five games as a junior with a right knee bruise (November 2018).
Summary: A three-year starter at Houston, Oliver was one of college football’s most disruptive players the last three years, spending most of his time at nose tackle for the Cougars. With his football flexibility and natural biomechanics, he has rare athletic ability for the position with the backfield vision to recognize play designs and disrupt from different angles. Oliver still requires time to develop his body, mind and technique at the next level. He will struggle with long-armed blockers who get to his frame and control his chest, but his energy and motor are both elite. Overall, Oliver won’t be a natural fit for every NFL scheme, but he is an ideal one-gap penetrator due to his athleticism, instincts and relentless nature, projecting best when he is lined up closest to the football. [h=3]5. Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State (6-2, 288, 4.99)[/h] [h=4]Cleveland, Ohio (St. Ignatius), RS Junior, 1/5/1997 (age 22.32)[/h]
Strengths: Nimble, loose-hipped athlete … initial and lateral quickness pop off the screen … shifty feet, making him a moving target and tough to contain … elite closing speed and uncanny pursuit skills for the position … quick, aggressive hands/reach to swim, swipe, snatch and create spacing … flashes power in his upper body to fend off blockers … first defensive lineman in school history with two defensive scores in a single season (interception return and fumble recovery in 2018) … graduated with a degree in sociology (December 2018).
Weaknesses: Tweener frame with a lean lower body … too easily moved in the run game due to his narrow base and marginal anchor strength … pads rise too quickly at contact … doesn’t respond well vs. doubles … inconsistent gap discipline because of his desire to make plays … needs to improve his counter measures when his first move doesn’t work … mediocre production with single digit sacks in 37 career starts … tore the ACL in his right knee (March 2015) playing high school basketball; missed two games after playing around in the locker room and lacerating his left leg on a nail, requiring stitches (September 2017).
Summary: A three-year starter at Ohio State, Jones moved from defensive end to under-tackle in Ohio State’s four-man front, setting career bests as a junior. He took a sizable step in his development in 2018, expanding his pass rush moves and improving his recognition skills. Jones displays the first step quickness to make himself skinny through gaps and the lateral quickness that makes him near immune to reach blocks. While he has high upside as a pass rusher, he tends to abandon his base in the run game and lacks the power to recover, allowing blockers to bully him from his spot. Overall, Jones must improve his run fits and play strength to be reliable on early downs, but his slippery athleticism and ability to manipulate space make him a pest for blockers, projecting best in an aggressive front to slant and shoot gaps. [h=3]6. Dexter Lawrence, Clemson (6-3, 346, 4.99)[/h] [h=4]Wake Forest, N.C. (Wake Forest), Junior, 11/12/1997 (age 21.46)[/h]
Strengths: Broad-shouldered, filled-out frame … smoothly carries his proportionate weight and doesn’t look or move overweight … outstanding raw power to anchor, absorb and stay off the ground … controls the point of attack to create 12-car pileups on inside run plays … naturally balanced to work off contact … controls his momentum well to redirect, break down and finish … flashes the flexible hips to work tight spaces … can move blockers when he has a step of momentum … hits like a bulldozer … plays through injuries and started double-digit games each of his three seasons.
Weaknesses: Undeveloped pass rusher … doesn’t consistently use bully tactics and his bark is worse than his bite … allows his pads to rise at contact and would benefit from better roll and leverage in his straight-line rush attempts … prefers to rip instead of push, but doesn’t routinely displace or toss single blockers … below average backfield vision … wears down easily and leans on blockers … secondary measures are absent once his initial move is halted … his best production came during his true freshman season … underwent toe surgery during the 2017 offseason, which caused a “nerve block” to lose feeling in his leg, forcing him to play “about 45-50 percent” during the 2017 season … suspended for the 2018 College Football Playoffs after he tested positive for ostarine, a banned performance-enhancing drug.
Summary: A three-year starter at Clemson, Lawrence made an immediate impact for the Tigers, lining up primarily as the nose guard while also seeing snaps over the B-gap and off the edge. After posting career-best production as a true freshman, he fell short of those numbers the past two seasons, including snaps, playing only 47.1 percent of Clemson’s defensive plays in 2018. Lawrence flashes dominant qualities as a run defender with his ability to stack the point of attack and not concede ground, using his natural power to two-gap. He is a smooth mover for a 350-pounder, but his best pass-rush tape came when he could get a step of momentum off the edge. Currently lacking interior pass-rush value. Overall, Lawrence isn’t yet the sum of his parts, but he possesses a rare blend of size, strength and movement skills, projecting as a space-eating run defender with potential to be more as a pass rusher. [h=3]7. Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame (6-6, 310, 5.21)[/h] [h=4]Shreveport, La. (Evangel Christian), Senior, 10/8/1996 (age 22.56)[/h]
Strengths: Long, athletic frame … moves well for a big man with lateral quickness, hip snap and flexibility to redirect in a blink … active on stunts and quick to close, eating up grass with his long strides … uses his length to detach from blocks … strong hands to swat, slap and pry his way through gaps … creates immediate movement with his initial surge and forward lean into blockers … wide base to move between gaps … huge wingspan to corral inside runners … flashes impressive effort to chase down ball carriers 30 yards downfield … two blocked kicks in 2018 … graduated with a degree in economics (May 2018).
Weaknesses: Tall center of gravity, allowing shifty runners to shake him in the hole … upright rusher and strikes too high with his arm moves … aimless pass rusher and finds himself upfield behind the quarterback … balance issues when his base narrows … large target and easily moved on down blocks … attracted the “dirty player” label as an underclassman (see 2016 USC tape) … NFL scouts question where football shows up on his priority list … suspended for the 2015 bowl game for a violation of team rules … missed time during 2018 spring practice with a concussion; suffered a left elbow sprain (October 2015).
Summary: A three-year starter at Notre Dame, Tillery spent most of his time over the B-gap and outside the tackle as an edge defender, lining up across the Irish’s hybrid front. He had his best season as a senior and finished tied for the team lead in sacks (8.0) and forced fumbles (3.0). Tillery is a loose mover with a powerful punch, using his length to stack, shed and bully. He is an extremely talented player, but teams must be comfortable with his accountability – he is an academic with worldly, sophisticated life goals, drawing the “all in?” questions from NFL teams regarding his commitment to football. Overall, Tillery has a vast playmaking radius with length and athleticism, flashing NFL starter potential, but questions about inconsistent onfield play and dedication to his craft are why he wears a “buyer beware” tag. [h=3]8. Isaiah Buggs, Alabama (6-3, 295, 4.94)[/h] [h=4]Ruston, La. (Ruston), Senior, 8/24/1996 (age 22.68)[/h]
Strengths: Athletic big man with compact build … balanced feet to loop and work around bodies … fluid hips and body control to squirt through gaps … stays low out of his stance with high knees to create force … active hands and powers his way through the shoulder of blockers … keeps his upper and lower body mechanics on the same page … natural contact balance to work down the line of scrimmage … teammates call him the “energy-starter,” and he’s not shy about speaking up and being a leader when necessary … graduated with his undergrad degree (December 2018).
Weaknesses: T-rex arms and can be neutralized when strong-armed blockers attack his frame … struggles to anchor vs. multiple blockers … needs to set a harder edge … only average outside range vs. the run and will give up plays … leans into blockers longer than necessary and relies too much on his shoulder … doesn’t show much deception in his pass-rush sequence … instincts are still a work in progress.
Summary: A two-year starter at Alabama, Buggs played defensive end in Nick Saban’s 3-4 base scheme, lining up over or slightly outside the offensive tackle. He had a strong senior season, finishing No. 1 on the team in sacks (9.5) and No. 2 in tackles for loss (13.5). Buggs moves well for his size with active feet in his pass rush and aggressive handwork to unlock from single blocks. His lack of length shows vs. doubles and his ball awareness is still developing, but he compensates with his energetic play style. Overall, Buggs might not offer a dominant trait, but he competes with an efficient mix of athleticism, power and versatility to interchangeably play either interior tackle spot in a four-man front. [h=3]9. Khalen Saunders, Western Illinois (6-1, 320, 5.27)[/h] [h=4]St. Louis, Mo. (Parkway Central), RS Senior, 8/9/1996 (age 22.72)[/h]
Strengths: His 320 pounds are well distributed on his wide frame … above-average athlete for his size with short-area twitch … excellent balance and body control through gaps … plays low and generates power from his hips at the point of attack … shows disruptive skills when blockers mistime their punch … gives consistent effort in chase mode … versatile experience playing inside and outside on the defensive line (also scored two offensive touchdowns in college: one rush, one catch) … played in every game the last four seasons, including 34 straight starts … consummate teammate, and coaches rave about his intelligence and intangibles.
Weaknesses: Stout but not a bully and won’t force his way through blockers … anchor strength seems to come and go … undeveloped shed skills once engaged, lacking ideal length or power in his punch … inconsistent leverage vs. doubles … immature hand/arm tactics as a pass rusher, forcing his attack to stall … smaller tackle radius … played at a lower level of competition and faced only two FBS programs in his career (Illinois, Northern Illinois).
Summary: A three-year starter at Western Illinois, Saunders was a nose tackle in the Leathernecks’ 3-4 base scheme, but also saw reps up and down the line, finishing his career ranked sixth all-time in school history with 18 sacks. There aren’t any questions about his dedication to make it in the NFL, choosing to stay and compete at the Senior Bowl instead of joining his fianceé for the birth of their first child. Saunders displays terrific snap quickness and body control, which is also evident with his back flips during practice. However, he was more of a flash player on tape and didn’t consistently dominate like his traits suggest. Overall, Saunders stays blocked too long and needs to develop his rush/anchor technique, but the athletic skill, raw strength and character are NFL quality, projecting best in a 4-3 scheme as a one-gapping nose with three-down potential. [h=3]10. Renell Wren, Arizona State (6-4, 315, 4.91)[/h] [h=4]St. Louis, Mo. (Lutheran), RS Senior, 10/23/1995 (age 23.52)[/h]
Strengths: Looks like an NFL player with his filled-out frame and long arms … powerful shoulders and upper body to punch, lock out and stack blocks … stays on his feet with smooth lateral quickness … improved backfield vision to track and always be in the vicinity … effort and range are prevalent on film, making plays away from the line of scrimmage … added 50-plus pounds since arriving as a 245-pound freshman.
Weaknesses: Long-legged frame and plays upright … struggles to sink and establish his base … too easily moved from the hole … spends too much time hand fighting without going anywhere … unimaginative pass-rush moves … inefficient hands and still connecting the dots after his initial movements … bad habit of turning his shoulder once engaged, getting redirected in the run game … plays with hustle, but mean streak tends to come and go … unimpressive starting experience and career production.
Summary: A two-year starter at Arizona State, Wren lined up primarily as the nose in the Sun Devils’ 3-4 base, usually head up over the guard or center. He is an impressive athlete for his size but tends to lose leverage quickly and needs to better understand how to use his biomechanics to his advantage. While his punch and upper body power are obvious, he is often aimless with his pass-rush moves and doesn’t know how to use his hands. Overall, Wren is incredibly raw from a technical standpoint, but he has the snap quickness, strength and effort to develop into a disruptive NFL player on the interior, projecting as a pure upside pick.
By Dane Brugler Feb 15, 2019
Although the “historic” descriptions of this defensive tackle draft class are exaggerated, it is a solid group, especially at the top.
In my opinion, Alabama’s Quinnen Williams is a legitimate No. 1 overall pick contender and the only NFL prospect on the same tier as Ohio State edge rusher Nick Bosa. Williams has the skill set to do just about anything you need on the defensive line, which is part of the reason he will be coveted on draft day.
The defensive tackles after Williams are more specialized and won’t fit every scheme or situation, but there are several first-round options. After the first 32 picks are complete, five or six defensive tackles could be off the board.
These rankings are based on tape study and all-star games and will be updated and expanded after the scouting combine (along with testing numbers and round projection). The number in parenthesis after each prospect’s date of birth is his age (to the nearest hundredth) on draft day. [h=3]1. Quinnen Williams, Alabama (6-4, 296, 5.02)[/h] [h=4]Birmingham, Ala. (Wenonah), RS Sophomore, 12/21/1997 (age 21.36)[/h]
Strengths: Explosive get-off to immediately reset the line of scrimmage … controlled, cat-like quickness to win off the snap, redirect or close in short areas … lateral agility and clean weight transfer as a pass rusher … uses a variety of swipes, rips and club moves to break the rhythm of blockers … naturally powerful and creates surge with his upper body … creates knockback and steers blockers where he wants … uniquely skilled at keeping blockers off him, using hand tactics and length … holds the point of attack and doesn’t get moved … understands gap leverage and how to exploit it … comfortable two-gapping and handling double-teams … above average ball awareness … sees through blocks and reacts to the ball, not the blocking scheme … accountable and “exemplifies all the things I talk about,” according to Alabama head coach Nick Saban … works his tail off and owns a genuine love for the game.
Weaknesses: Doughy body type and would benefit from added bulk … only average arm length … occasionally finds himself out of control mid-rush, leading to missed tackles … only one season of production at the college level.
Summary: A one-year starter at Alabama, Williams took over for the departed DaRon Payne at nose guard in Saban’s three-man base and emerged as one of college football’s most dominant players in 2018. He finished the season in the top 10 in the FBS and second in the SEC with 19.5 tackles for loss and didn’t have an “off” game. With his snap quickness and handwork, Williams has a natural feel for defeating blocks, and his teammate Jonah Williams hit the nail on the head when he described facing Williams as trying to block a “300-pound bar of soap.” He is a power-packed player from head to toe, competing with the violence, hustle and awareness to be an elite run defender. Overall, Williams was not only blessed with a complete skill set with his explosiveness, strength and intelligence, but he also has the rare ability to use all his gifts in unison, projecting as an immediate NFL starter with All-Pro potential. [h=3]2. Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State (6-3, 311, 5.08)[/h] [h=4]Macon, Miss. (Noxubee County), Junior, 7/28/1997 (age 21.76)[/h]
Strengths: Impressively developed physique with filled-out muscle and under 15 percent body fat … heavy-handed and manhandles blockers with brute power … shows grown-man strength at the point of attack, digging in his cleats and handling double teams … uproots blockers with a forceful bull rush … elite contact balance and rarely displaced … pounces out of his stance … athletic for his size and looked comfortable dropping in space … lateral quickness and fluidity to loop around blocks … uses his meat hooks to swipe and create rush lanes … quickly finds the ball carrier when engaged … showed improved attention to fundamentals over the last three years … owns the physical mindset to bounce around with offensive linemen for four quarters … blocked three career kicks on special teams … two-time SEC Academic Honor Roll with a cumulative GPA over 3.0 … his 32.5 career tackles for loss ranks sixth best in school history.
Weaknesses: Excellent short-area quicks but not fast or rangy … inconsistent snap timing … tends to flow with the action instead of anticipating … not a polished pass rusher and needs to better set up his moves … arrested and charged for simple assault (March 2016) after a video captured him punching a woman several times following a dispute between the victim and Simmons’ sister at the apartment complex where Simmons lived with his mother; Simmons pleaded no contest and apologized for his role (Simmons: “Honestly, I wasn’t thinking, all I could think was this is my family and I’m supposed to defend my family”); Simmons was suspended for one game with several conditions attached to his enrollment … suffered a torn ACL in his left knee (February 2019) while training for the scouting combine.
Summary: A three-year starter at Mississippi State, Simmons made an immediate impact at the college level, primarily as a nose over the A-gap, and teams had to alter their game plans to run plays away from him. He wears the classic neckroll, which brings back flashbacks of Pro Football Hall of Famer Charles Haley with the way he tears through blocks. Simmons is a naturally powerful human and passes the eye test with flying colors, rarely losing a one-on-one matchup and forcing constant double teams. He isn’t a sudden first-step athlete and needs to develop as a pass rusher, but he plays with violence and has the power to win once he gets going. Based on talent alone, Simmons is one of the best players in the 2019 NFL Draft class, but his character grade will be hotly debated because of the disturbing video where he punched a woman already on the ground. In the three years since the incident, he kept his nose clean, did well in school and Mississippi State coaches and administrators speak very highly of his maturity, which will keep him on several draft boards around the league. Overall, Simmons is a power-packed player with natural ease of movement to stay balanced at contact, reset the line of scrimmage and hunt the ball carrier, projecting as an immediate NFL starter with Pro Bowl upside for a team willing to accept his baggage. His pre-combine ACL tear will likely sideline him for the 2019 NFL season and drop him 15-30 spots on draft weekend. [h=3]3. Christian Wilkins, Clemson (6-3, 312, 4.98)[/h] [h=4]Springfield, Mass. (Suffield Academy), Senior, 12/20/1995 (age 23.36)[/h]
Strengths: Initial quickness to live in the opponent’s backfield … flexible hips and joints, contorting his good-sized frame and staying balanced through gaps … fluid redirection in pursuit with the chase speed to track down ball carriers … plays underneath blocks and keeps his lower body working to grind out movement … gap quickness helps clog things up in the run game … recognition skills reflect his experience … extensive experience on special teams coverages … scored three touchdowns (two rushing, one receiving) on offense … two-time team captain with the type of work ethic and intangibles that are “up there with Deshaun (Watson) since we’ve been here,” according to a Clemson assistant coach … graduated with a degree in communications (December 2017), becoming the first scholarship player in school history to graduate in two-and-a-half years … his 59 career games played is tied for the most in school history.
Weaknesses: Lacks ideal length and point-of-attack power … inconsistent shed technique and timing … can be bullied in the run game … inconsistent base strength and can be displaced by blockers, especially when his pads rise … doesn’t always replace his hands on his get-off, stalling his pass rush … always looking for an edge but developed a reputation for being a borderline dirty player due to questionable hits … older prospect (repeated his freshman year in high school) and will turn 24 years old during his rookie NFL season.
Summary: A three-year starter at Clemson, Wilkins worked his way into the defensive line rotation as a true freshman and was a key reason behind the Tigers’ two national titles the last three seasons. Lining up primarily over the B-gap, he became the school’s fifth unanimous All-American (2018) and the first Clemson player to win the William V. Campbell Trophy, also known as the Academic Heisman. Moving differently than most his size, Wilkins uses his loose lower body, contact balance and active hands in conjunction to squirt through gaps. His high-character intangibles will be a strong selling point for an NFL team looking for a high-floor prospect. Overall, Wilkins is an inconsistent run defender, but his quickness, body flexibility and ball awareness lead to backfield production, projecting as a penetrating three-technique in a four-man front. [h=3]4. Ed Oliver, Houston (6-2, 276, 4.86)[/h] [h=4]Houston, Texas (Westfield), Junior, 12/12/1997 (age 21.38)[/h]
Strengths: Fluid body control to wriggle off blocks … excellent foot quickness and change of direction skills … shot out of a cannon with his first step … forces holding penalties due to his gap quickness … creates knockback with his speed-to-power skills … ball awareness to track through blocks … uses natural leverage to stay underneath the pads of blockers … better than expected play strength as a run defender … highly aggressive motor and effort never wanes, chasing down plays near the sidelines … dominated from the moment he stepped onto campus and leaves as a three-time All-American, collecting 54.0 tackles for loss over 33 career starts.
Weaknesses: Lacks desired frame and length … needs to continue and develop his body and stay in the 280-285 pound range (weighed 274 for most of his final season at Houston) … relied more on motor than brute power to overwhelm blockers in college … not a bull rusher … undeveloped approach with his hands … below average counter measures once locked up … faced inferior competition in the AAC … several immature moments in college, including an on-field altercation with former head coach Major Applewhite regarding a coat issue on the sideline – young attitude and has “growing up to do,” according to a Houston assistant … missed five games as a junior with a right knee bruise (November 2018).
Summary: A three-year starter at Houston, Oliver was one of college football’s most disruptive players the last three years, spending most of his time at nose tackle for the Cougars. With his football flexibility and natural biomechanics, he has rare athletic ability for the position with the backfield vision to recognize play designs and disrupt from different angles. Oliver still requires time to develop his body, mind and technique at the next level. He will struggle with long-armed blockers who get to his frame and control his chest, but his energy and motor are both elite. Overall, Oliver won’t be a natural fit for every NFL scheme, but he is an ideal one-gap penetrator due to his athleticism, instincts and relentless nature, projecting best when he is lined up closest to the football. [h=3]5. Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State (6-2, 288, 4.99)[/h] [h=4]Cleveland, Ohio (St. Ignatius), RS Junior, 1/5/1997 (age 22.32)[/h]
Strengths: Nimble, loose-hipped athlete … initial and lateral quickness pop off the screen … shifty feet, making him a moving target and tough to contain … elite closing speed and uncanny pursuit skills for the position … quick, aggressive hands/reach to swim, swipe, snatch and create spacing … flashes power in his upper body to fend off blockers … first defensive lineman in school history with two defensive scores in a single season (interception return and fumble recovery in 2018) … graduated with a degree in sociology (December 2018).
Weaknesses: Tweener frame with a lean lower body … too easily moved in the run game due to his narrow base and marginal anchor strength … pads rise too quickly at contact … doesn’t respond well vs. doubles … inconsistent gap discipline because of his desire to make plays … needs to improve his counter measures when his first move doesn’t work … mediocre production with single digit sacks in 37 career starts … tore the ACL in his right knee (March 2015) playing high school basketball; missed two games after playing around in the locker room and lacerating his left leg on a nail, requiring stitches (September 2017).
Summary: A three-year starter at Ohio State, Jones moved from defensive end to under-tackle in Ohio State’s four-man front, setting career bests as a junior. He took a sizable step in his development in 2018, expanding his pass rush moves and improving his recognition skills. Jones displays the first step quickness to make himself skinny through gaps and the lateral quickness that makes him near immune to reach blocks. While he has high upside as a pass rusher, he tends to abandon his base in the run game and lacks the power to recover, allowing blockers to bully him from his spot. Overall, Jones must improve his run fits and play strength to be reliable on early downs, but his slippery athleticism and ability to manipulate space make him a pest for blockers, projecting best in an aggressive front to slant and shoot gaps. [h=3]6. Dexter Lawrence, Clemson (6-3, 346, 4.99)[/h] [h=4]Wake Forest, N.C. (Wake Forest), Junior, 11/12/1997 (age 21.46)[/h]
Strengths: Broad-shouldered, filled-out frame … smoothly carries his proportionate weight and doesn’t look or move overweight … outstanding raw power to anchor, absorb and stay off the ground … controls the point of attack to create 12-car pileups on inside run plays … naturally balanced to work off contact … controls his momentum well to redirect, break down and finish … flashes the flexible hips to work tight spaces … can move blockers when he has a step of momentum … hits like a bulldozer … plays through injuries and started double-digit games each of his three seasons.
Weaknesses: Undeveloped pass rusher … doesn’t consistently use bully tactics and his bark is worse than his bite … allows his pads to rise at contact and would benefit from better roll and leverage in his straight-line rush attempts … prefers to rip instead of push, but doesn’t routinely displace or toss single blockers … below average backfield vision … wears down easily and leans on blockers … secondary measures are absent once his initial move is halted … his best production came during his true freshman season … underwent toe surgery during the 2017 offseason, which caused a “nerve block” to lose feeling in his leg, forcing him to play “about 45-50 percent” during the 2017 season … suspended for the 2018 College Football Playoffs after he tested positive for ostarine, a banned performance-enhancing drug.
Summary: A three-year starter at Clemson, Lawrence made an immediate impact for the Tigers, lining up primarily as the nose guard while also seeing snaps over the B-gap and off the edge. After posting career-best production as a true freshman, he fell short of those numbers the past two seasons, including snaps, playing only 47.1 percent of Clemson’s defensive plays in 2018. Lawrence flashes dominant qualities as a run defender with his ability to stack the point of attack and not concede ground, using his natural power to two-gap. He is a smooth mover for a 350-pounder, but his best pass-rush tape came when he could get a step of momentum off the edge. Currently lacking interior pass-rush value. Overall, Lawrence isn’t yet the sum of his parts, but he possesses a rare blend of size, strength and movement skills, projecting as a space-eating run defender with potential to be more as a pass rusher. [h=3]7. Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame (6-6, 310, 5.21)[/h] [h=4]Shreveport, La. (Evangel Christian), Senior, 10/8/1996 (age 22.56)[/h]
Strengths: Long, athletic frame … moves well for a big man with lateral quickness, hip snap and flexibility to redirect in a blink … active on stunts and quick to close, eating up grass with his long strides … uses his length to detach from blocks … strong hands to swat, slap and pry his way through gaps … creates immediate movement with his initial surge and forward lean into blockers … wide base to move between gaps … huge wingspan to corral inside runners … flashes impressive effort to chase down ball carriers 30 yards downfield … two blocked kicks in 2018 … graduated with a degree in economics (May 2018).
Weaknesses: Tall center of gravity, allowing shifty runners to shake him in the hole … upright rusher and strikes too high with his arm moves … aimless pass rusher and finds himself upfield behind the quarterback … balance issues when his base narrows … large target and easily moved on down blocks … attracted the “dirty player” label as an underclassman (see 2016 USC tape) … NFL scouts question where football shows up on his priority list … suspended for the 2015 bowl game for a violation of team rules … missed time during 2018 spring practice with a concussion; suffered a left elbow sprain (October 2015).
Summary: A three-year starter at Notre Dame, Tillery spent most of his time over the B-gap and outside the tackle as an edge defender, lining up across the Irish’s hybrid front. He had his best season as a senior and finished tied for the team lead in sacks (8.0) and forced fumbles (3.0). Tillery is a loose mover with a powerful punch, using his length to stack, shed and bully. He is an extremely talented player, but teams must be comfortable with his accountability – he is an academic with worldly, sophisticated life goals, drawing the “all in?” questions from NFL teams regarding his commitment to football. Overall, Tillery has a vast playmaking radius with length and athleticism, flashing NFL starter potential, but questions about inconsistent onfield play and dedication to his craft are why he wears a “buyer beware” tag. [h=3]8. Isaiah Buggs, Alabama (6-3, 295, 4.94)[/h] [h=4]Ruston, La. (Ruston), Senior, 8/24/1996 (age 22.68)[/h]
Strengths: Athletic big man with compact build … balanced feet to loop and work around bodies … fluid hips and body control to squirt through gaps … stays low out of his stance with high knees to create force … active hands and powers his way through the shoulder of blockers … keeps his upper and lower body mechanics on the same page … natural contact balance to work down the line of scrimmage … teammates call him the “energy-starter,” and he’s not shy about speaking up and being a leader when necessary … graduated with his undergrad degree (December 2018).
Weaknesses: T-rex arms and can be neutralized when strong-armed blockers attack his frame … struggles to anchor vs. multiple blockers … needs to set a harder edge … only average outside range vs. the run and will give up plays … leans into blockers longer than necessary and relies too much on his shoulder … doesn’t show much deception in his pass-rush sequence … instincts are still a work in progress.
Summary: A two-year starter at Alabama, Buggs played defensive end in Nick Saban’s 3-4 base scheme, lining up over or slightly outside the offensive tackle. He had a strong senior season, finishing No. 1 on the team in sacks (9.5) and No. 2 in tackles for loss (13.5). Buggs moves well for his size with active feet in his pass rush and aggressive handwork to unlock from single blocks. His lack of length shows vs. doubles and his ball awareness is still developing, but he compensates with his energetic play style. Overall, Buggs might not offer a dominant trait, but he competes with an efficient mix of athleticism, power and versatility to interchangeably play either interior tackle spot in a four-man front. [h=3]9. Khalen Saunders, Western Illinois (6-1, 320, 5.27)[/h] [h=4]St. Louis, Mo. (Parkway Central), RS Senior, 8/9/1996 (age 22.72)[/h]
Strengths: His 320 pounds are well distributed on his wide frame … above-average athlete for his size with short-area twitch … excellent balance and body control through gaps … plays low and generates power from his hips at the point of attack … shows disruptive skills when blockers mistime their punch … gives consistent effort in chase mode … versatile experience playing inside and outside on the defensive line (also scored two offensive touchdowns in college: one rush, one catch) … played in every game the last four seasons, including 34 straight starts … consummate teammate, and coaches rave about his intelligence and intangibles.
Weaknesses: Stout but not a bully and won’t force his way through blockers … anchor strength seems to come and go … undeveloped shed skills once engaged, lacking ideal length or power in his punch … inconsistent leverage vs. doubles … immature hand/arm tactics as a pass rusher, forcing his attack to stall … smaller tackle radius … played at a lower level of competition and faced only two FBS programs in his career (Illinois, Northern Illinois).
Summary: A three-year starter at Western Illinois, Saunders was a nose tackle in the Leathernecks’ 3-4 base scheme, but also saw reps up and down the line, finishing his career ranked sixth all-time in school history with 18 sacks. There aren’t any questions about his dedication to make it in the NFL, choosing to stay and compete at the Senior Bowl instead of joining his fianceé for the birth of their first child. Saunders displays terrific snap quickness and body control, which is also evident with his back flips during practice. However, he was more of a flash player on tape and didn’t consistently dominate like his traits suggest. Overall, Saunders stays blocked too long and needs to develop his rush/anchor technique, but the athletic skill, raw strength and character are NFL quality, projecting best in a 4-3 scheme as a one-gapping nose with three-down potential. [h=3]10. Renell Wren, Arizona State (6-4, 315, 4.91)[/h] [h=4]St. Louis, Mo. (Lutheran), RS Senior, 10/23/1995 (age 23.52)[/h]
Strengths: Looks like an NFL player with his filled-out frame and long arms … powerful shoulders and upper body to punch, lock out and stack blocks … stays on his feet with smooth lateral quickness … improved backfield vision to track and always be in the vicinity … effort and range are prevalent on film, making plays away from the line of scrimmage … added 50-plus pounds since arriving as a 245-pound freshman.
Weaknesses: Long-legged frame and plays upright … struggles to sink and establish his base … too easily moved from the hole … spends too much time hand fighting without going anywhere … unimaginative pass-rush moves … inefficient hands and still connecting the dots after his initial movements … bad habit of turning his shoulder once engaged, getting redirected in the run game … plays with hustle, but mean streak tends to come and go … unimpressive starting experience and career production.
Summary: A two-year starter at Arizona State, Wren lined up primarily as the nose in the Sun Devils’ 3-4 base, usually head up over the guard or center. He is an impressive athlete for his size but tends to lose leverage quickly and needs to better understand how to use his biomechanics to his advantage. While his punch and upper body power are obvious, he is often aimless with his pass-rush moves and doesn’t know how to use his hands. Overall, Wren is incredibly raw from a technical standpoint, but he has the snap quickness, strength and effort to develop into a disruptive NFL player on the interior, projecting as a pure upside pick.
