The value of interior defensive linemen has been skyrocketing recently. The league is increasingly recognizing that pressure up the middle can be as, if not more, impactful than pressure from the edge. As teams seek to avoid the exorbitant costs of signing established veterans in free agency, they are turning to younger talents to fill the gap.
Quinnen Williams epitomizes this shift. Securing him with a contract extension was a prudent move. Historically, we’ve relied on hired guns to complement him at the other starting defensive tackle position and provide depth. However, given the ongoing inflation in the prices of interior defensive linemen, it makes financial sense to cultivate cheaper talent to develop alongside Quinnen.
[1] Jer’Zhan Newton, Illinois – (Projected Round – Top 20)
Top Strength: Natural pad level with top tier explosion off the snap
Top Weakness: Has below AVG length
[2] T’Vondre Sweat, Texas – (Projected Round – Round 1)
Top Strength: One of the strongest men you will see in this class while being light on his feet
Top Weakness: Can get too high in his pads sometimes
[3] Byron Murphy, Texas – (Projected Round – Round 1)
Top Strength: Extremely quick 1st step
Top Weakness: Ability to shed blocks
[4] Braden Fiske, Florida St – (Projected Round – Round 2)
Top Strength: A motor that is always running at max output
Top Weakness: Below AVG length
[5] DeWayne Carter, Duke – (Projected Round – Round 2)
Top Strength: Very good upper body strength and has versatility
Top Weakness: Needs to work on his counters
[6] Kris Jenkins, Michigan – (Projected Round – Round 2)
Top Strength: Is reliable/instinctive with athleticism across the board
Top Weakness: Needs to add more tools to his toolbox when rushing the passer
[7] Michael Hall, Ohio State – (Projected Round – Round 3)
Top Strength: Quick and explosive with both hands and feet
Top Weakness: Strength at the point of attack
[8] Brandon Dorlus, Oregon – (Projected Round – Round 3)
Top Strength: Inside/outside ability with strength and quickness
Top Weakness: Lack flexibility
[9] Leonard Taylor, Miami – (Projected Round – Round 4)
Top Strength: Has Plus athleticism mixed with very good contact balance
Top Weakness: Needs to work on being faster off the snap
[10] Ruke Orhorhoro, Clemson – (Projected Round – Round 4)
Top Strength: Strength and length combo
Top Weakness: Inconsistency
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