DT Rashan Gary:
TWENTYMAN: 10 players who impressed at 2019 Combine (Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan: Gary doesn’t move like a 277-pound man. His speed and change of direction mimic that of much smaller players. The former Wolverine posted good numbers in the 40 (4.58 seconds), vertical jump (38 inches) and broad jump (10 feet) for a player that big. Some wonder why he wasn’t more productive at Michigan, but leaving the Combine, no one questions the kind of athlete he is and how versatile he could be in a creative defensive scheme.) (3-5-19): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-10-players-who-impressed-at-2019-combine
U-M DE Gary, LB Bush among NFL combine winners (Winners - 7. Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan: Looking to entrench himself alongside the likes of Williams, Nick Bosa and Josh Allen as one of the draft's elite defensive talents, Gary put on a show. At 6-4 and 277 pounds, he ripped off a 4.58 40 and 38-inch vertical. Turning the corner on NFL offensive tackles could be tricky for Gary given he managed just 9 1/2 sacks in three years at Michigan, but several teams at the top of the first round likely will take the long-term bet on his potential.) (3-5-19): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2019/03/05/nfl-combine-winners-losers-dk-metcalf-montez-sweat-draft-stock/3049233002/
NFL Combine winners, losers: Kyler Murray critics take L; D-line freaks show off (D-line freaks - A loaded class of edge-rushers did not disappoint. That included Nick Bosa and Quinnen Williams, who are in a battle to be the first pick among defensive linemen, but they have competition. Montez Sweat ran a 4.41 40-yard dash. Rashan Gary ran a 4.58. Dexter Lawrence put up 36 reps in the bench press, and we haven’t seen a full workout yet from Ed Oliver. These guys will be the story of the first round of the draft.) (3-5-19): http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2019-winners-losers-kyler-murray-critics-defensive-linemen/csnr73i17bkm1gyz9c56j81cc
2019 NFL Scouting Combine Team: Top defensive prospects (Rashan Gary, Michigan - Best team fits: Carolina Panthers, New York Jets, Oakland Raiders. Analysis: Gary's lack of big-play production in 2018 (3.5 sacks in nine games) brings him criticism in some corners of the league. However, in Indianapolis, he confirmed scouts' belief that he is a fantastic athlete by running a 4.58 40, jumping 38 inches in the vertical and 10 feet in the broad, and moving quickly in agility tests (4.29 short shuttle, 7.26 three-cone), even while checking in at over 6-4 and 277 pounds. His quickness could allow a team to use him on a four-man front, as Michigan did, but teams looking for a 5-technique may value him even more. His 26 reps on the bench also showed he has the brute strength to control the edge against veteran offensive linemen.) (3-4-19): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001021076/article/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-team-top-defensive-prospects
2019 NFL Scouting Combine: Twelve numbers that matter most (4.58 seconds: At 6-4 3/8 and 277 pounds, Michigan DE Rashan Gary's 4.58-second 40-yard dash is the fastest for any player weighing at least 275 pounds since 2003. His 10-yard split of 1.63 seconds is even more predictive -- and equally as elite -- to NFL success. Add in his 10-foot broad jump and 38-inch vertical, and it's easy to see why NFL evaluators are quite intrigued by this freakish big man.) (3-4-19): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001021021/article/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-twelve-numbers-that-matter-most
Combine Confidential: Defense Risers and Sliders (Led by Montez Sweat (4.41) and Rashan Gary (4.58), the defensive linemen group this year was the fastest to ever hit the turf inside Lucas Oil Stadium, as the average forty-yard dash times of defensive linemen was 4.905, topping the previous mark of 4.907 in 2003.) (3-4-19): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/combine-confidential-defense-risers-sliders-dkFc3m7x1kKIO0nTKpPs6A/
Sunday's 2019 Combine winners: EDGE rushers (Gary was billed as an athletic specimen and he didn’t disappoint in his workouts/measurements, checking in at 6-4 1/2, 277 pounds and running a 4.58 40-yard dash with a 1.63 10-yard-split. Gary showed quick footwork and smooth movements running through the defensive linemen drills. When he was asked to show his range by participating in linebacker drills, the only flaws came when he dropped the ball.) (3-3-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/sundays-2019-combine-winners-edge-rushers/
Brooks: Winners and losers from combine Day 3 (Winners - Rashan Gary, edge, Michigan: After watching Gary put on a show as a "dancing bear" on the turf, scouts will wrestle with the athlete versus football player debate. Although the Michigan star posted sterling numbers in the 40 (4.58 seconds; best of all D-linemen), vertical jump (38 inches; best of all D-linemen) and broad jump (10 feet; second among D-linemen), Gary's performance in the position drills was equally impressive. He moves like a tight end in a defensive end's body and that's one of the reasons why Gary could come off the board early despite posting middling production as a college player.) (3-3-19): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001020821/article/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-winnerslosers-montez-sweat-soars
Combine takeaways: Big day for D-linemen (If it wasn't for Sweat, we would be freaking out more about Michigan's Rashan Gary running a 4.58-second 40 at 277 pounds. He looked smooth through the wave drill and exhibited great footwork in the four-bag. He did have some weirdness on the change-of-direction drill, spinning the wrong way and then slipping around the corner, but for the most part he impressed. For evaluators, it'll be squaring his lack of production at Michigan with his undeniable athleticism.) (3-3-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-results-montez-sweat-quinnen-williams-devin-white-josh-allen-dominate/
No Sweat, Mississippi State edge rusher leads dominant DL group at Combine (Among them was Michigan’s Rashan Gary, who was every bit as impressive Sunday as Sweat, recording a 4.59 second 40-yard dash at 6-4, 277 pounds and excelling during his position workout, as did his teammate Chase Winovich, who slayed suggestions that he was just a try-hard player by running a 4.59 at 6-3, 256 pounds.) (3-3-19): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/no-sweat-mississippi-state-edge-rusher-leads-dominant-dl-group-at-combine-lIYXFAHcLk6MN-tMaysgUg/
Top linemen and linebackers for Lions from NFL Combine (Gary came into the NFL Combine wanting to make a statement to teams like Detroit in the top 10 and he managed to do just that by running a nice 40 yard dash and showing off in drills. Perhaps Gary rises up the board to be a top five pick or higher, and it will be interesting to see where the projections have him. If he slips any, though, he should be in the conversation for the Lions given what he can do as an edge guy at the next level.) (3-3-19): https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/ContentGallery/NFL-Combine-top-linemen-linebackers-for-Lions-129680744/
Video - Michigan defensive lineman Rashan Gary runs an official 4.58 40-yard dash at 2019 NFL combine (3-3-19): https://www.detroitlions.com/video/michigan-defensive-lineman-rashan-gary-runs-an-official-4-58-40-yard-dash-at-201
Michigan’s Rashan Gary: I’m the best player in the draft. Period. (3-2-19): https://www.mlive.com/wolverines/2019/03/michigans-rashan-gary-im-the-best-player-in-the-draft-period.html
TWENTYMAN: 4 Combine pass rushers who could interest Lions (And what about Michigan defensive end Rashan Gary? Like Allen, he’s projected to come off the board a couple picks before No. 8, but he could still be there. Gary (6-4, 277) is coming off a 44 tackle campaign for the Wolverines with seven tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in 12 games. “To be honest, I feel I’m more versatile (than the other rushers in this class),” Gary said. “I play base end, but you’re able to throw me inside at three-technique. I can rush over a guard. I can stand up and rush off the edge and can drop to the flat or the hook. I can really do anything anyone wants me to be, so I’m an army swiss knife to every team.”) (3-2-19): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-4-combine-pass-rushers-who-could-interest-lions
U-M's Gary: 'I'm the best player in this draft' (3-2-19): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/university-michigan/wolverines/2019/03/02/michigans-rashan-gary-im-best-player-draft/3041481002/
NFL Combine 2019: The 10 prospects with the most on the line in Indianapolis (Rashan Gary, EDGE/DL, Michigan: Gary has been the recipient of immense excitement about his athletic prowess for years, and it's culminated with talk of a huge combine running rampant since the end of the college football season. The former No. 1 overall recruit in the nation isn't a polished prospect who can beat blockers in a variety of ways. He managed just 9.5 sacks and 23.5 tackles for loss in his three-year stint in Ann Arbor, hardly brutal numbers yet far from typical top 5 pick type production. Gary can't do anything about his relative hand-work rawness right now. He can live up to the expectations at the combine. As a hybrid edge rusher/defensive tackle, Gary's combine performance should be compared to big-time prospects at each position. If he crushes the 40-yard dash, the jumps, and the agility drills, there'll almost assuredly be a team picking in the top half of Round 1 -- or maybe even in the top 5 or top 10 -- that is too memorized by Gary's supreme athletic gifts to pass on him. However, if he has a good, not great effort on the field, falling to the later portions of the first round will be on the table.) (2-27-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2019-prospects-with-the-most-on-the-line-in-indianapolis/
NFL combine preview: Defensive players to watch for Lions (Player to watch for Lions: Gary, Michigan: A five-star recruit, people long have marveled at Gary's athleticism. It should be exciting to see him be able to put that on full display at the combine. Given the right scheme and coaching, there's a huge ceiling for that combination of speed, strength and size.) (2-26-19): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/02/26/nfl-combine-preview-defensive-players-watch-detroit-lions/2991883002/
NFL Draft 2019: A big board of the top 25 Lions targets entering the combine (7. Rashan Gary, DT, Michigan: The Lions are set to lose Ezekiel Ansah to free agency, but they could look at another power rusher to consider making a cornerstone on the edge. Rashan Gary was a good college player whose production never quite matched the hype, though it wasn't for a lack of effort. He's more unrefined, in need of some moves and a plan that goes beyond running people over, but the traits are there. He fits the kind of inside-outside mold the Lions like for their end spots.) (2-26-19): https://expo.mlive.com/sports/g66l-2019/02/25732221735574/nfl-draft-2019-a-big-board-of-the-top-50-lions-targets-entering-the-combine.html
Who and what to watch at the 2019 NFL Combine: EDGE rusher (Rashan Gary, Michigan (Suggested by: Erik Schlitt): Gary evaluations are all over the map, and he has been projected to as high as the No. 2 overall pick as well as dropping out of the first round entirely in mock drafts. Each week, Gary is mocked to the Lions by a different analyst and while I personally have written that I believe Gary is a perfect fit for the Lions down defensive end role others, like Daniel Jeremiah, don’t like the fit. Like with yesterday’s profile on Ed Oliver, I believe people are overthinking Gary because he was such a highly touted college prospect. Gary has some obvious flaws, as Bryce Rossler accurately pointed out in his profile of Gary’s future, but he is nowhere near his developmental ceiling and at the Combine, his expected freaky measurables could back that up.) (2-26-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/02/26/who-what-watch-2019-nfl-combine-edge-rusher/
Six Things I'm Watching For At The 2019 NFL Draft Combine (Rashan Gary’s weight and disposition: Gary is expected to light up the Lucas Oil Field turf in his workout. Watching the defensive lineman play at Michigan the past three years, it would be stunning if he wasn’t one of the top athletic performers in every drill amongst the DL class. The bigger question for Gary, one he can clear up in Indy, is where the heck do you play him? Gary cut weight in 2018 and was more of a perimeter-oriented rusher than he had been in his earlier Wolverine days. He was also less effective at getting to the passer. The lightning quickness that made him special when he attacked more inside isn’t as dynamic when facing tackles or chipping/chopping TEs. If he’s still in the 272 range (the weight his mother told the Big Drew and Jim Show on ESPN Radio in Grand Rapids, which also employs me) he played at in 2018, NFL teams will only see him as a DE. That hurts his value. I’d love to see him at 280-290, a range which opens up alignment options. But he has to be willing to kick inside as well, something his mother was quite adamant he was not interested in doing.) (2-26-19): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3141/Six-Things-Im-Watching-For-At-The-2019-NFL-Draft-Combine
2019 NFL Combine: 7 Prospects With the Most to Gain (7. Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan: Gary may just be the most freakish defensive player at the combine. He weighs 285 pounds, but should have athleticism equal to or better than a number of the 210-pound running backs. In a way, he’s got more to lose than he has to gain. But with draft volatility, it’s almost the same thing. He’s known as a freak athlete, and this is the underwear olympics. This is when freak athletes truly shine.) (2-26-19): https://thebiglead.com/2019/02/26/2019-nfl-combine-most-to-gain/
10 players who could be stars of the NFL scouting combine (1. Rashan Gary, DE/DT, Michigan: A former top recruit, Gary never quite emerged as the consistent pass-rushing threat many projected him to be for the Wolverines. This week, however, could be the setting for his career breakout. In 2017, Michigan officials said Gary, then measuring in at 6-5 and 287 pounds, clocked a 4.57-second 40-yard dash and notched a 9-foot-6 broad jump. Whatever the final numbers are in Indianapolis, Gary is a good bet to rank among the best at his position in most drills and spark a conversation about whether he belongs in the draft's top tier of defensive players.) (2-26-19): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2019/02/26/nfl-combine-2019-rashan-gary-dk-metcalf/2935457002/
Analyst: U-M's Gary an elite athlete, a bit raw; thoughts on other Michigan players (Bush, Higdon, Gentry) (2-25-19): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/university-michigan/wolverines/2019/02/25/rashan-gary-nfl-draft-2019/2982336002/
Nick Bosa Is Ready to Go at the NFL Combine, and More Updates Ahead of Indy (6. Michigan’s Rashan Gary is absolutely another guy to watch. I’d expect him to land in the 280-pound range, and word is he might sneak into the 4.5s in the 40, which is bananas and explains why this kid’s been earmarked for the NFL since he was a middle schooler. His game needs a lot of refinement, but some will probably leave Indy pretty excited with him.) (2-25-19): https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/02/25/nfl-combine-2019-nick-bosa-kyler-murray-rashan-gary
NFL combine 2019: Nick Bosa, Rashan Gary headline deep crop of EDGE players (Rashan Gary, Michigan: The Lions added one former top overall high school recruit to their defensive line last year, and Da'Shawn Hand proved to be one of the best rookie defenders in the league. Now could the Lions do it again? Gary came to Michigan as the consensus No. 1 overall recruit, and while terrific at times, he was quiet at others. There are questions about his consistency and overall production (9.5 sacks and 23.0 tackles for loss in 34 games), and the AC joint injury that sidelined him for much of last year. He mostly played on the edge at Michigan, but at 281 pounds, could face a move inside at the next level. It'll be interesting to see what he weighs in at the combine, and whether he seems himself as more of an inside or outside guy at the next level.) (2-19-19): https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/02/03a3818f381488/nfl-combine-2019-joey-bosa-rashan-gary-headline-deep-crop-of-edge-players-.html
Five defensive linemen for Lions to watch at NFL Combine (1. Rashan Gary, Michigan. Perhaps the most interesting player in the NFL Draft could be Gary, who teams will be looking to evaluate after he was not involved down the stretch for Michigan. This is the moment Gary has been preparing for and it will be interesting to see what he does. Is he an interior lineman or a pass rusher? If there's anyone who would know, it would be Matt Patricia, who could figure out what to do with such a player. Gary could become a consensus top 10 selection with good work, and the Lions could be one of the most interested teams after they see his abilities on the field in person.) (2-18-19): https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/NFL-Combine-Lions-defensive-linemen--129250976/
2019 Combine Preview: Edge rusher (Rashan Gary - Best trait: Athleticism. He has the potential to really impress teams with his physical traits at the Combine. He has a terrific blend of size, speed, explosiveness and power. Concern: Why didn’t all those terrific physical traits translate into more production at Michigan? He had seven tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in 12 games this past season. Skinny: He’s a powerful rusher who needs to develop his pass rushing repertoire in the NFL. He relied on his strength and power at the college level, and won’t always be able to do that in the NFL. All the raw tools are there, he just needs some seasoning.) (2-15-19): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2019-combine-preview-edge-rusher
13 prospects who should blow up the 2019 NFL Scouting Combine (Rashan Gary: There are questions in regards to Gary’s position fit at the next level, as he worked on the inside and as an edge rusher at Michigan. But there’s no questioning the 6-foot-4, 280-pound defensive lineman’s athleticism. Gary has elite first-step quickness, and he also has the lateral speed to chase down screen passes and stretch plays to the perimeter. He should solidify himself as a first-round lock after the combine.) (2-8-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/02/08/2019-nfl-draft-scouting-combine-top-prospects-kyler-murray-ed-oliver-rashan-gary/
Lions draft: Which defender to take in Round 1? (First Round - DE Rashan Gary, Michigan: Gary didn’t have a great 2018 season with just 3.5 sacks, and he appeared to coast at times with the draft on his mind. But he’s a big-time talent who could play end or tackle in Matt Patricia’s defense.) (2-5-19): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/02/05/detroit-lions-2019-nfl-draft-prospects/2776240002/
Reconciling Rashan Gary's production with his potential: is the Michigan star worth a top 10 pick? (2-3-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/02/03/rashan-gary-top-ten-pick-2019-nfl-draft-michigan-football/
10 defensive ends the Detroit Lions could target in NFL draft (Gary, the former No. 1 recruit in the nation, was a two-year starter at Michigan but missed three games as a junior this season due to injury. He had 44 tackles, including 7.5 for a loss, 3.5 sacks and five quarterback hurries before declaring for the draft and missing Michigan's Peach Bowl loss to Florida. Kiper listed Gary, who could also play inside, as the No. 2 defensive end available in the draft and he's a potential top-10 pick.) (1-17-19): https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/fa9ca596088576/10-defensive-ends-the-detroit-lions-could-target-in-nfl-draft.html
Projecting The NFL Scouting Combine: Defensive Line (Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan (Day 1) – Possesses rare athleticism and is expected to have a combine performance for the ages, which should cement his status as a top ten overall selection.) (1-16-19): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/projecting-the-nfl-scouting-combine-defensive-line-JnMnU1Uymk2YPB0birSorQ/
Scout’s Eye: Bowl Edition – Part IV (DT Rashan Gary, Michigan, JR (6-4, 281, 4.67, #3): There has been plenty of buzz surrounding Gary since his arrival at Ann Arbor. He will sit out this matchup as he focuses on preparing for the NFL Draft and starting up his new sports agency firm. He is stout against the run while also demonstrating the ability to collapse the pocket and get after the quarterback. Gary possesses rare athleticism and is expected to have a combine performance for the ages, which should cement his status as a top ten overall selection.) (12-29-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-bowl-edition-part-iv--IHTlG89Bkq--cT8bCVQDA/
NFL Draft 2019 Position Primers: Nick Bosa, Clelin Ferrell the Top Edge Rushers (RASHAN GARY, DE, MICHIGAN: Gary is an athletic freak. His 40-yar time just about matches Allen’s, but he’s more than 20 pounds heavier, at 283 pounds. Playing on an elite Michigan defense with another NFL prospect in Chase Winovich, Gary shreds opposing linemen no problem. His lethal speed-strength combo makes his straight-on rush a wicked-good tool. Gary can blow by sluggish linemen, and he can overpower weaker ones. Plus, since he’s over 280 pounds, he can rush from the interior as a defensive tackle, but the edge rush is his expertise. Against bigger, stronger and smarter NFL linemen, Gary will need to add to his arsenal of moves. As a pro rusher, you have to rely on out-witting offenses, not just out-working them. If Gary reaches that next-level trickery … watch out, quarterbacks.) (12-21-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/21/nfl-draft-2019-top-edge-rushers-nick-bosa-clelin-ferrell
Six NFL draft prospects whose 2018 production didn't meet the hype (RASHAN GARY, DL, MICHIGAN (80.4 OVERALL GRADE): Hailing from Paramus, New Jersey, Gary was the consensus top-ranked player in the 2016 recruiting class. Unlike most players transitioning from high school to college, Gary actually lost weight at Michigan. The 290-pound high school defensive tackle is now listed as a 283-pound defensive end. The problem is his pass-rushing moves still resemble that of a defensive tackle as he’s collected a grand total of 74 pressures over the last two seasons (teammate Chase Winovich has 106 for comparison). The athleticism is evident, but he might have to transition back inside at the NFL level.) (12-17-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-six-over-hyped-prospects-for-2019-nfl-draft
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 2.0: Herbert Moves Into Top 10, Uptick in Offense in Latest Rankings (3. RASHAN GARY, DL, MICHIGAN: Gary is still really raw, but the expectation that he could run around 4.6 at 280 pounds is enough to make NFL teams think that, with a little refinement, he could be a foundation piece on a really good defense for a long time to come.) (12-14-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
Prospects: Who should stay, go (Rashan Gary, Michigan: Gary landed in Ann Arbor has the No. 1 recruit -- regardless of position -- in the entire country and had a solid albeit unspectacular career with the Wolverines. At times he looked like the best player on the field but did have surprising stretches of disappearance. Should he stay or go? Stay. It's a moot point now, but Gary still has to learn the nuances of playing on the defensive line. He's been so far ahead athletically for so long, he hasn't developed a variety of pass-rushing moves, and he's kind of a defensive line tweener at 6-5 and 283 pounds. Right now, he's not bendy enough to be a full-time edge-rusher and probably not powerful or heavy enough to have sustained success on the inside. ) (12-4-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-underclassmen-tracker-who-should-declare-who-should-go-back-to-school/
Rashan Gary has declared for the NFL Draft, the Lions should be interested (11-26-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/11/26/rashan-gary-has-declared-for-the-nfl-draft-the-lions-should-be-interested/
Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan: “His combo of size and athleticism makes him a difficult matchup because he can win with strength or he can win with athleticism. His talent is outstanding but he is a little bit inconsistent in his temperament. He just doesn’t give everything he has physically. I’d be a little bit concerned about that because he is one of those guys that could go either way. You could see him being a really good player or he could just fade because he doesn’t play with maximum effort. I think he’d be a defensive end in either a 4-3 or a 3-4. When you watch him you don’t realize he is that big until you see him—he is so athletic, he plays like a smaller player. I think you can you could use him in multiple ways effectively as long as he is putting in the effort to do that. He’s probably the third defensive lineman off the board, behind Bosa and Oliver.”) (11-21-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports
Examining the top 5 players connected to the Lions in 2019 Mock Drafts (DT Rashan Gary: A lot of analysts are stuck on the fact that Gary plays defensive end for the Wolverines and doesn’t put up the statistical numbers you would expect from an elite defensive end. What gets overlooked is how Gary is used in Don Brown’s scheme — as an “anchor” defensive end. The “anchor” role is exactly what it sounds like. Gary is asked to anchor his side of the line, set the edge first and then pass rush second. If this sounds familiar, it’s because it’s exactly what the Lions ask their down EDGE rushers to do. Gary has Da’Shawn Hand type range — with more pass rushing chops — and would give the Lions two incredibly versatile pieces to pair with Harrison and Robinson. Imagine this defense with two Hands in the fold. Yes, please.) (11-16-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/11/16/mailbag-2019-nfl-mock-drafts-point-to-lions-looking-defense-early/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 1.0: Nick Bosa No. 1, Justin Herbert Top QB at No. 13 (5. RASHAN GARY, DL, MICHIGAN: The crazy thing about Gary is that he’s still seen as being pretty raw with a lot of room to grow. And at 280 or so pounds, the buzz is that he’ll run a 40-yard dash in the 4.7s. He may not be the best of the defensive linemen in this class as a rookie, but has the potential to be a monster long-term.) (11-15-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/15/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama's Quinnen Williams rising but not (yet) No. 1 (6. Gary: Gary signed with Michigan as one of the most highly regarded preps in the entire country and has lived up to his billing since, standing out on a defense loaded with future NFL draft picks since his true freshman season. While perhaps lacking the elite burst and bend off the edge of this year's top pass rushers, Gary can effectively harass the quarterback because of his prototypical blend of size, strength, awareness and refined technique - traits which allow Michigan to slide him up and down the defensive line.) (11-8-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-s-quinnen-williams-rising-but-not-yet-no-1-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (14. Rashan Gary, DT, Michigan. (Previously: 14 Avg. 10.7 per 11): After missing three games with an AC shoulder joint sprain, Gary returned to the field against Penn State and made two tackles. Previously, he had one tackle for a loss against Maryland and played through an injury he suffered against Northwestern. All night against Notre Dame in the season opener, Gary burned the Fighting Irish offensive tackles and put steady hits on quarterback Brandon Wimbush. Gary totaled four tackles with .5 for a loss, but he played much better than the stat line indicates. In 2018, he has 24 tackles with 4.5 for a loss and two sacks.) (11-7-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama vs. LSU highlight must-see Week 10 matchups (6. Rashan Gary: Gary signed with Michigan as one of the most highly regarded preps in the entire country and has lived up to his billing since, standing out on a defense loaded with future NFL draft picks since his true freshman season. While perhaps lacking the elite burst and bend off the edge of this year’s top pass rushers, Gary can effectively harass the quarterback because of his prototypical blend of size, strength, awareness and refined technique – traits which allow Michigan to slide him up and down the defensive line. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury has kept Gary sidelined the past three games and threatens to keep him out again Saturday against the Nittany Lions.) (11-2-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-vs-lsu-highlight-must-see-week-10-matchups-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (14. Rashan Gary, DT, Michigan. (Previously: 14 Avg. 10.4 per 10): Michigan had a bye last week. Still nursing a shoulder injury, Gary missed the game against Michigan State, and that was his third straight missed contest. Previously, he had one tackle for a loss against Maryland and played through an injury he suffered against Northwestern. All night against Notre Dame in the season opener, Gary burned the Fighting Irish offensive tackles and put steady hits on quarterback Brandon Wimbush. Gary totaled four tackles with .5 for a loss, but he played much better than the stat line indicates. In 2018, he has 22 tackles with 4.5 for a loss and two sacks. ) (10-31-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Surprising QB class shakes up the rankings (5. Gary (2018: 18 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks (five games)) Gary signed with Michigan as one of the most highly regarded preps in the entire country and has lived up to his billing since, standing out on a defense loaded with future NFL draft picks since his true freshman season. While perhaps lacking the elite burst and bend off the edge of this year’s top pass rushers, Gary can effectively harass the quarterback because of his prototypical blend of size, strength, awareness and refined technique – traits which allow Michigan to slide him up and down the defensive line. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury has kept Gary sidelined the past three games.) (10-26-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-surprising-qb-class-shakes-up-the-rankings-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (14. Gary: Still nursing a shoulder injury, Gary missed the game against Michigan State, and that was his third straight missed contest. Previously, he had one tackle which was for a loss against Maryland and played through an injury he suffered against Northwestern. All night against Notre Dame in the season opener, Gary burned the Fighting Irish offensive tackles and put steady hits on quarterback Brandon Wimbush. Gary totaled four tackles with .5 for a loss, but he played much better than the stat line indicates. In 2018, Gary has 22 tackles with 4.5 for a loss and two sacks.) (10-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Rankings 3.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season (4. Gary: Explosive athlete with positional versatility and pass-rush skills. Gary flashes the traits defensive coaches covet in blue-chip defenders, but he must address questions about his durability going forward. -- BB) (10-23-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000977769/article/rankings-30-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season
Draft prospect watch: Michigan vs. Michigan State (Michigan defensive end Rashan Gary is likely the best prospect in this matchup but it sounds like he will not play against the Spartans and there is speculation that his season is in doubt with eyes on the NFL draft as he recovers from injuries. Gary is an excellent physical specimen, but he is raw and needs refinement in some areas of his game.) (10-20-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/10/20/draft-prospect-watch-michigan-vs-michigan-state/
Chase Winovich, Rashan Gary form the top edge defender duo in the country (10-19-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-winovich-gary-best-edge-duo-in-fbs
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: ACC, SEC defenders rising as rivalry games begin (6. Rashan Gary ((2018: 18 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks (five games)): Gary has not yet shown the consistency or technique that may earn Bosa and Ferrell high draft selections but he is bigger and faster than either, suggesting an upside and positional versatility that could earn him an even earlier selection on draft day. Gary signed with Michigan as the most touted prep in the country two years ago and has lived up to his hype, dominating at times, despite being the clear focus on opponents' blocking scheme in 2018. Gary has missed the past two weeks due to a shoulder injury and would be a huge loss for the Wolverines if unable to play this week against the rival Spartans.) (10-18-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-acc-sec-defenders-rising-as-rivalry-games-begin-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (14. Rashan Gary, DT, Michigan. (Previously: 5 Avg. 9.5 per 8): Still nursing a shoulder injury, Gary missed the Michigan game against Wisconsin. Previously, he had one tackle which was for a loss against Maryland and played through an injury he suffered against Northwestern. All night against Notre Dame in the season opener, Gary burned the Fighting Irish offensive tackles and put steady hits on quarterback Brandon Wimbush. Gary totaled four tackles with .5 for a loss, but he played much better than the stat line indicates. In 2018, Gary has 22 tackles with 4.5 for a loss and two sacks.) (10-17-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board - Oregon's Justin Herbert to be tested by gifted UW DBs (6. Gary (2018: 18 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks (five games)): Gary has not yet shown the consistency or technique that may earn Bosa and Ferrell high draft selections but he is bigger and faster than either, suggesting an upside and positional versatility that could earn him an even earlier selection on draft day. Gary signed with Michigan as the most touted prep in the country two years ago and has lived up to his hype, dominating at times, despite being the clear focus on opponents' blocking scheme in 2018. Gary missed last week's matchup with Maryland due to a shoulder injury and is questionable for Week Seven's big showdown with Wisconsin.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-oregon-s-justin-herbert-to-be-tested-by-gifted-uw-dbs-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
NFL Prospect Matchups: Wisconsin vs. Michigan (Up until the injury which sidelined him a week ago against Maryland, Rashan Gary had flashed the skills and ability that will make him a top-10 pick in next April’s draft. He’s an explosive athlete with great edge speed, playing balance and upside potential. As opponents have shifted blocking schemes towards Gary, teammate Chase Winovich has picked up the slack.) (10-12-18): http://draftanalyst.com/nfl-prospect-matchups-wisconsin-vs-michigan
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (5. Gary: Gary had one tackle which was for a loss against Maryland and played through an injury he suffered against Northwestern. All night against Notre Dame in the season opener, Gary burned the Fighting Irish offensive tackles and put steady hits on quarterback Brandon Wimbush. Gary totaled four tackles with .5 for a loss, but he played much better than the stat line indicates. In 2018, Gary has 22 tackles with 4.5 for a loss and two sacks. ) (10-10-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2018 NFL Draft Big Board - New duo boost already dominant defensive line class (4. Gary (2018: 18 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks (five games)) Gary has not yet shown the consistency or technique that may earn Bosa and Ferrell high draft selections but he is bigger and faster than either, suggesting an upside and positional versatility that could earn him an even earlier selection on draft day. Gary signed with Michigan as the most touted prep in the country two years ago and has lived up to his hype, dominating at times, despite being the clear focus on opponents' blocking scheme in 2018.) (10-4-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2018-nfl-draft-big-board-new-duo-boost-already-dominant-defensive-line-class-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (6. Rashan Gary, DT, Michigan. (Previously: 5 Avg. 9.5 per 6): Gary had three tackles against Northwestern and appeared to injure his right shoulder/arm, but of course Michigan is being vague and discreet about the injury. All night against Notre Dame in the season opener, Gary burned the Fighting Irish offensive tackles and put steady hits on quarterback Brandon Wimbush. Gary totaled four tackles with .5 for a loss, but he played much better than the stat line indicates. In 2018, Gary has 21 tackles with 3.5 for a loss and two sacks. ) (10-3-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Michigan's Rashan Gary, Chris Evans 'questionable' vs. Maryland (10-1-18): https://www.mlive.com/wolverines/index.ssf/2018/10/michigans_rashan_gary_chris_ev.html
Rankings 2.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season (4. Gary: Ultra-athletic defender with the versatility and explosiveness to play multiple positions along the defensive line. -- BB) (9-25-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000966534/article/rankings-20-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (17. Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan: Gary had a sack to go along with two tackles in Michigan's demolition of Nebraska on Saturday and played with more power than I've ever seen from him. And that was by way of speed-to-power on outside rushes and when he used a scary swipe move to shed blocks as a pass-rusher. Apparently he avoided injury against Nebraska despite not playing beyond the first quarter, per the Detroit Free Press.) (9-25-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-d-k-metcalf-climbs-into-top-20-after-another-game-with-big-plays/
6 potential Lions prospects to watch in college football Week 4 (Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan: Gary can regularly be seen double teamed (and more) on the edge of the Wolverines defensive line. He is a physical force and shows fantastic moments lined up both inside and out. He has heavy hands and can win with power lined up between the guard and the tackle, and he also has excellent athleticism to defeat tackles around the corner. Gary has a huge ceiling but is still a bit raw as a player, needing refinement in his game. He has outrageous physical gifts, and if he goes to the right system in the NFL, he could be a nightmare for offensive linemen quickly, and he would be a phenomenal addition to the Lions defensive line.) (9-22-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/22/6-potential-lions-prospects-to-watch-in-college-football-week-4/
Draft Prospect rankings: Alabama's next elite safety (19. Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan
Gary flashed a powerful swipe move and actually showed some bend and lean around the edge in Michigan's win over SMU. His athleticism will always impress me. I just need to see more of a plan when attacking offensive tackles as an edge rusher. ) (9-19-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-alabamas-deionte-thompson-emerging-as-elite-safety-prospect/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (9. Rashan Gary: Gary made four tackles versus SMU. All night against Notre Dame, Gary burned the Fighting Irish offensive tackles and put steady hits on quarterback Brandon Wimbush. Gary totaled four tackles with .5 for a loss, but he played much better than the stat line indicates. In 2018, Gary has 16 tackles with 1.5 for a loss and one sack.) (9-19-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3 (21. RASHAN GARY, MICHIGAN – EDGE DEFENDER: Coming into the season, Gary was more athletic projection than productive edge rusher, and there are still some questions as he has a 63.1 pass-rush grade on 78 rushes, but he’s been strong against the run at 84.7. Gary needs to produce off the edge as a rusher in order to maintain his spot in the top 32.) (9-18-18): PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Clemson's Dexter Lawrence proving to be more than space-eater (18. Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan: Once again -- and I'm guessing this is going to be a theme with this season -- Gary's athletic talent stands out on just about every snap. He's a twitchy mover for 6-5 and 280-plus pounds. But he's probably playing out of position on the edge and doesn't have a variety of pass-rushing moves to beat blocks if he can't win with his bull rush. Against the run, Gary is outstanding scraping down the line to squeeze any cutback lanes, and he can shed blocks in one-on-one situations. I want to see more beyond a power rush or speed rush to the outside.) (9-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-clemsons-dexter-lawrence-proving-to-be-more-than-space-eater/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (9. Rashan Gary, DT, Michigan.: All night against Notre Dame, Gary burned the Irish offensive tackles and put steady hits on quarterback Brandon Wimbush. Gary totaled four tackles with .5 for a loss, but he played much better than the stat line indicates. In 2018, Gary has 12 tackles with 1.5 for a loss and one sack.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: More D-linemen added after wowing in Week One (5. Gary (2018: 4 tackles, .5 tackles for loss (one game, Notre Dame)): Gary has not yet shown the consistency or technique that may earn Bosa and Ferrell high draft selections but he is bigger and faster than either, suggesting an upside and positional versatility that could earn him an even earlier selection on draft day. Gary signed with Michigan as the most touted prep in the country two years ago and has lived up to his hype, recording an impressive 17 tackles for loss in 26 career games, thus far.) (9-6-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-more-d-linemen-added-after-wowing-in-week-one-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
Five possible Lions draft prospects: Week 1 (Rashan Gary, DT, Michigan No. 3 (Michigan at Notre Dame, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, NBC): Grab any preseason prospect list and you won’t have to scroll down far to find Gary’s name. He’s a consensus top-10 pick at this point of the process and the 6-foot-5 lineman had reportedly bulked up to 288 pounds in March. Odds are, he's probably packed on a few more in recent months. Notre Dame lost two linemen to last year’s draft, a pair of first-rounders, but guard Alex Bars and center Sam Mustipher are solid blockers who should provide a stiff challenge for Gary on opening night.) (8-31-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/01/five-possible-detroit-lions-draft-prospects-week-1/1158714002/
NFL Prospect Matchups: Michigan vs. Notre Dame (Rashan Gary is easily the top prospect in this game, and I question whether Notre Dame, which lost the entire left side of their offensive line in last April’s first round, can stop him.) (8-31-18): http://draftanalyst.com/nfl-prospect-matchups-michigan-vs-notre-dame
Scout's Eye: Top NFL Prospects to Watch in Week 1 (DT Rashan Gary, Michigan, Jr. (6-4, 281, 4.67, #3, Day One): An explosive athlete, Gary flashes a lighting quick first step and rare athleticism. He is stout against the run while also demonstrating the ability to collapse the pocket and get after the quarterback. At 281 pounds, Gary was timed at 4.57 seconds in the 40 by Michigan coaches and could have a Combine performance like we've never seen before.) (8-30-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-top-nfl-prospects-to-watch-in-week-1-E9td6AYRWEGJriM9IMPOAA/
Ranking the top 25 prospects in 2018: Bosa's bro to wreak havoc? (4. Gary: Explosive athlete with positional versatility and pass-rush skills. Gary is more of a "flasher" than a dominant player at this point, but he has the traits defensive coaches covet in frontline playmakers. -- BB) (8-30-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000952266/article/ranking-the-top-25-prospects-in-the-2018-college-football-season
2019 NFL Draft: Michigan's youthful defense is oozing with NFL talent (Rashan Gary, DL: Gary was the No. 1 overall recruit in the country in the class of 2016according to 247 Sports, and he's lived up to the billing in his first two seasons with the Wolverines. He'll begin the 2018 season as my No. 3 overall prospect in next year's draft. Gifted with a unique body type, long arms, and immense athleticism, the 6-foot-5, 287-pounder can play anywhere on the defensive line, which bodes well for his future in the nickel-heavy NFL. Bruce Feldman listed Gary at No. 1 on his "freak" list, a distinction given to Saquon Barkley and Myles Garrettbefore the last two college football seasons. Gary isn't an edge-bending outside rusher, and he's not a space-eating defensive tackle. He's somewhere in between, and he's primed for a monster year anchoring Michigan's defensive front. He had 11.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks in 2017 during most of which he played as a 19 year old. He could stand to get a bit stronger up top, and he showcased a diverse arsenal of pass-rushing moves last season he needs to rely on more frequently as a junior. Gary is the guy you want to utilize on twists, and he's outstanding chasing down ball-carriers from the backside. With another productive season in Ann Arbor, Gary should hear his name called in the top half of the first round in the 2019 Draft. ) (8-7-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-michigans-youthful-defense-is-oozing-with-nfl-talent/
Greg Gabriel early 2019 NFL Draft breakdown: Michigan DT Rashan Gary (7-23-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/07/23/greg-gabriel-early-2019-nfl-draft-breakdown-michigan-de-rashan-gary/aoj6x3a/
Scouting the Big 10 - Michigan (After watching a half-dozen game films, I firmly believe Rashan Gary is the real deal. He’s an explosive edge rusher who gets a lot of force going up the field and consistently proves himself to be a disruptive defender. Gary fires off the snap with a great first step, plays with great pad level and balance and shows the ability to flatten his angle and pursue from the back side with speed. He’s an athletic prospect and seems to come with growth potential, which will only enhance his draft stock.(7-18-18): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-big-10-michigan
2018 college football season: Top 11 defensive linemen to watch (5. Gary: Big and strong. Those two words best describe the Michigan junior defensive end who was able to parlay those traits into a leap forward in his sophomore season. Gary lines up and fires out of a track stance, but he's more of a physical presence as a pass rusher, rather than a player who tries to out-race tackles to the edge. He does a good job of utilizing his arm length to attack tackles when playing the run and his lateral quickness gives him the upper hand when chasing running backs to the sideline or operating in Michigan's twists. I would like to see greater development with his pass-rush plan this season.) (7-13-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000940247/article/2018-college-football-season-top-11-defensive-linemen-to-watch
Who Are the Defensive Linemen Expected to Dominate the 2019 NFL Draft? (DL Rashan Gary, junior, Michigan: Gary was the No. 1 overall recruit in a class that had Oliver, Lawrence and Bosa as five-star players, and it’s not hard to see why. At 280 pounds, he can play on the edge, and looks like he’s got the frame to get even bigger. He’s the kind of athlete that teams will draft and figure out where he’ll play later. Ziggy Ansah was a comparison I received.) (7-12-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/07/12/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-linemen-nick-bosa-dexter-lawrence
18 for '18: College football's most freakish athletes (2. Gary: College football's junior class is loaded with talent on the defensive line, and Gary sits comfortably among the elite players in the group. In program testing his sophomore year, he was clocked at a jaw-dropping 4.57 seconds in the 40-yard dash at 280-plus pounds. He also broad jumped 9-6 and turned in a 6.70 time in the 3-cone drill. As a pass rusher, he overwhelms offensive linemen with first-step quickness and power, and he also has the lateral speed to chase down screen passes and stretch plays to the perimeter. As if he needed to be any more athletic, he got himself trimmed down to 275 pounds in the spring.)(6-29-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000938992/article/18-for-18-college-footballs-most-freakish-athletes
Scouting Rashan Gary: Michigan has a top-three talent in DT (9-26-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000938523/article/scouting-rashan-gary-michigan-has-a-topthree-talent-in-dt
NFL Draft Defender Ranks (2. Gary: The 6-foot-5, 287-pound Rashan Gary, who logged 12 TFL as part of a rotation last fall, was the No. 1 overall recruit in his class. Gary often lines up outside for the Wolverines, but he seems like a signed, sealed and delivered NFL 3-technique. With athletic tools like he has, he'll produce wherever you play him.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks
Brugler: Early Top 12 prospects for 2019 NFL Draft (4. Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan (6-6, 291, 5.02, junior): Gary, considered the No. 1 recruit in the 2016 class, has shown impressive flashes with his athleticism to win with his first step, either working the edge or prying his way through gaps. And he also shows the heavy hands to win the point of attack and track the football, disposing of road blocks and plugging running lanes.) (6-4-18): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/brugler-early-top-12-prospects-for-2019-nfl-draft-g3Y8aWBH3EmWOgw8z-eLjA/
2019 NFL Draft: An early introduction to nine of the potential top defensive linemen (Rashan Gary, DE/DT, Michigan
Experience: Has been on the field for 25 games so far in two seasons at Michigan. Recorded a half sack and five tackles for loss in rotational role as a freshman. As he moved into a more featured role in 2017, his numbers jumped to 5.5 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss. Also, his tackle total increased from 23 to 58. Strengths: Thick, powerful build. More defensive end-defensive tackle hybrid than defensive end-outside linebacker. Relatively strong, decently active hands. Often used on inside stunts, in which he showcased impressive burst and tremendous closing speed. Plus twitchiness for his size. Can unload a jolting pop on offensive linemen but isn't overly powerful at this point. Mostly consistent block-shedding. Flashed a nice swim move and good straight arm. Clearly a rare talent in need of a bit more refinement with his pass-rushing moves and could stand to get stronger. Turned 20 in December of 2017. Weaknesses: Overall strength needs to improve. Bull rush isn't as strong as you'd expect give his size and movement ability. Can play high when rushing on the edge and isn't super bendy to the quarterback. Early comparison: Tyrone Crawford) (5-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-an-early-introduction-to-the-potential-top-dl-in-next-years-draft-nick-bosa/
18 for '18: Defensive prospects who will be NFL stars (4. Gary: At 6-foot-5 and 280 pounds, Gary is a bigger end who has all the size and strength to hold the point of attack against the run, but along with that, he can move like a linebacker. Another credit to Gary is that he played his best game last year in his team's biggest game, against rival Ohio State, collecting season-highs in tackles (7), tackles for loss (2.5) and sacks (2). His production took a big leap from his freshman year in 2016 to last year, and another step forward will put him squarely in contention for national awards.) (5-22-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000933757/article/18-for-18-defensive-prospects-who-will-be-nfl-stars
Who Are the Defensive Linemen Expected to Dominate the 2019 NFL Draft? (DL Rashan Gary, junior, Michigan: Gary was the No. 1 overall recruit in a class that had Oliver, Lawrence and Bosa as five-star players, and it’s not hard to see why. At 280 pounds, he can play on the edge, and looks like he’s got the frame to get even bigger. He’s the kind of athlete that teams will draft and figure out where he’ll play later. Ziggy Ansah was a comparison I received.) (7-12-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/07/12/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-linemen-nick-bosa-dexter-lawrence
18 for '18: College football's most freakish athletes (2. Gary: College football's junior class is loaded with talent on the defensive line, and Gary sits comfortably among the elite players in the group. In program testing his sophomore year, he was clocked at a jaw-dropping 4.57 seconds in the 40-yard dash at 280-plus pounds. He also broad jumped 9-6 and turned in a 6.70 time in the 3-cone drill. As a pass rusher, he overwhelms offensive linemen with first-step quickness and power, and he also has the lateral speed to chase down screen passes and stretch plays to the perimeter. As if he needed to be any more athletic, he got himself trimmed down to 275 pounds in the spring.)(6-29-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000938992/article/18-for-18-college-footballs-most-freakish-athletes
Scouting Rashan Gary: Michigan has a top-three talent in DT (9-26-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000938523/article/scouting-rashan-gary-michigan-has-a-topthree-talent-in-dt
NFL Draft Defender Ranks (2. Gary: The 6-foot-5, 287-pound Rashan Gary, who logged 12 TFL as part of a rotation last fall, was the No. 1 overall recruit in his class. Gary often lines up outside for the Wolverines, but he seems like a signed, sealed and delivered NFL 3-technique. With athletic tools like he has, he'll produce wherever you play him.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks
Brugler: Early Top 12 prospects for 2019 NFL Draft (4. Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan (6-6, 291, 5.02, junior): Gary, considered the No. 1 recruit in the 2016 class, has shown impressive flashes with his athleticism to win with his first step, either working the edge or prying his way through gaps. And he also shows the heavy hands to win the point of attack and track the football, disposing of road blocks and plugging running lanes.) (6-4-18): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/brugler-early-top-12-prospects-for-2019-nfl-draft-g3Y8aWBH3EmWOgw8z-eLjA/
2019 NFL Draft: An early introduction to nine of the potential top defensive linemen (Rashan Gary, DE/DT, Michigan
Experience: Has been on the field for 25 games so far in two seasons at Michigan. Recorded a half sack and five tackles for loss in rotational role as a freshman. As he moved into a more featured role in 2017, his numbers jumped to 5.5 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss. Also, his tackle total increased from 23 to 58. Strengths: Thick, powerful build. More defensive end-defensive tackle hybrid than defensive end-outside linebacker. Relatively strong, decently active hands. Often used on inside stunts, in which he showcased impressive burst and tremendous closing speed. Plus twitchiness for his size. Can unload a jolting pop on offensive linemen but isn't overly powerful at this point. Mostly consistent block-shedding. Flashed a nice swim move and good straight arm. Clearly a rare talent in need of a bit more refinement with his pass-rushing moves and could stand to get stronger. Turned 20 in December of 2017. Weaknesses: Overall strength needs to improve. Bull rush isn't as strong as you'd expect give his size and movement ability. Can play high when rushing on the edge and isn't super bendy to the quarterback. Early comparison: Tyrone Crawford) (5-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-an-early-introduction-to-the-potential-top-dl-in-next-years-draft-nick-bosa/
18 for '18: Defensive prospects who will be NFL stars (4. Gary: At 6-foot-5 and 280 pounds, Gary is a bigger end who has all the size and strength to hold the point of attack against the run, but along with that, he can move like a linebacker. Another credit to Gary is that he played his best game last year in his team's biggest game, against rival Ohio State, collecting season-highs in tackles (7), tackles for loss (2.5) and sacks (2). His production took a big leap from his freshman year in 2016 to last year, and another step forward will put him squarely in contention for national awards.) (5-22-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000933757/article/18-for-18-defensive-prospects-who-will-be-nfl-stars
Scouting Reports:
Dre'Mont Jones NFL draft profile: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/02/13/2019-nfl-draft-profile-dremont-jones-ohio-state/
Articles:
U-M DE Gary, LB Bush among NFL combine winners (Losers - 3. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: At just 286 pounds and prone to getting pushed around in the run game, Jones needed to show explosive traits to emphasize his potential as a pass rusher. Instead, he underwhelmed almost across the board. His potential team fits are likely limited to those with a one-gap scheme allowing interior rushers to get upfield.) (3-5-19): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2019/03/05/nfl-combine-winners-losers-dk-metcalf-montez-sweat-draft-stock/3049233002/
Sunday's 2019 Combine winners: Interior defensive line (Notes:
Dre’Mont Jones (Ohio State) didn’t put up great times today and looked like he struggled a bit in the defensive line drills, At 281-pounds he was also asked to work out as an EDGE/linebacker and his decision to do so may have saved his day as he looked very natural dropping in drills. He may be switched to EDGE on some teams boards, including the Lions.) (3-3-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/sundays-2019-combine-winners-interior-defensive-line/
2019 NFL Scouting Combine: DL winners, losers from Sunday (Losers - Jones is already lacking in size at 281 pounds, and it didn’t help by posting below average numbers for someone that’s going to win with quickness. His 5.13 40-yard dash and 7.71 three-cone drill were not ideal for the former Ohio State product. He did show to do well in the on-field drills, but the numbers may effect his draft stock come April.) (3-3-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-defensive-line-winners-losers-quinnen-williams/
2019 NFL Combine Stock Report: Defensive Linemen (Down - Dre'Mont Jones had a bad showing at the combine. Despite weighing in at just 281 pounds, he ran a 5.12 40. His 3-cone time was an even worse mark, as he timed in 7.71, one of the worst marks among players at the position.) (3-3-19): http://walterfootball.com/combine2019stockDL.php
Combine takeaways: Big day for D-linemen (Ohio State's Dre'Mont Jones "only" had a 5.12 40 time at 281 pounds, but he showed his stuff in the drills, exhibiting some great burst and really doing a good job in the stack-and-shed drill. He'll be in the mix for Day 1 but should be a top-50 pick either way.) (3-3-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-results-montez-sweat-quinnen-williams-devin-white-josh-allen-dominate/
Combine: Oliver, Burns win weigh-ins (Winners - Dre'Mont Jones, Ohio State. The loose-hipped, pass-rushing extraordinaire from Columbus, Ohio exhibited tentacles for arms with a 80 5/8-inch wingspan. At close to 6-foot-3 and 281 pounds, he has room to add a little weight to his frame too.) (3-1-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-ed-oliver-brian-burns-among-winners-as-dls-edges-lbs-weigh-in-and-get-measured/
Draft: Prospects who resemble Pats stars (Flowers is a "hybrid" defensive lineman capable of wreaking havoc from anywhere thanks to his athleticism but mostly his stellar hand work that keeps blockers off his body and off-balance. Jones may not ultimately measure in with as long of arms as Flowers (34 and 1/4 inches), but like the Patriots star who's set to cash in on the free-agent market, Jones has impeccable hand usage well beyond his years (he turned 22 in January). ) (2-4-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-want-to-build-a-team-like-the-patriots-the-2019-prospects-similar-to-edelman-gilmore-other-stars/
Draft: Analysis of top underclassmen (Dre'Mont Jones, Ohio State: Fluid lower half and excellent variety of pass-rushing moves but can get pushed around in the run game.) (1-15-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-here-are-the-top-underclassman-draft-prospects-you-need-to-know/
Rose Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Ohio State vs. Washington bowl game (Ohio State Dre'Mont Jones, DT: Jones is a dynamic hand-work defensive tackle with fluid hips and impressive burst off the snap. He's somewhat of a one-trick pony though, as he's not wide or powerful enough to anchor against the run and gets totally washed out of run plays relatively often. He's entering the NFL at the perfect time because he's the ideal nickel defensive tackle who really can get after the quarterback. I expect Jones to go no later than the second round.) (12-29-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/rose-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-ohio-state-vs-washington-bowl-game/
The Draft Prospects the NFL Is Watching This Bowl Season (DL Dre’Mont Jones is still raw, but he can be molded a number of different ways as a 290-pounder who moves like a much smaller man.) (12-27-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/27/2019-nfl-draft-bowl-season
A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (Redshirt junior defensive tackle Dre'Mont Jones (6 feet 3 inches, 286 pounds) broke out this season with 13 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks, making him one of the better interior prospects in the draft.) (12-15-18): https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html
NFL Draft 2019 Position Primers: Quinnen Williams Leads Interior Defensive Linemen (DRE’MONT JONES, OHIO STATE: A malleable lineman who works best inside, Jones ranked second on the Buckeyes in both sacks and tackles for loss in 2018. Like Simmons, Jones is a proven technician with his hands. He’s long and athletic, able to chase down quarterbacks as they escape the pocket. Simmons struggled with consistent production at times, but his talent and athleticism will cause a team to draft him in the first round.) (12-14-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/nfl-draft-2019-position-primer-top-interior-defensive-linemen
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 2.0: Herbert Moves Into Top 10, Uptick in Offense in Latest Rankings (16. DRE’MONT JONES, DT, OHIO STATE (Height: 6' 2" | Weight: 290 pounds): A classic 3-technique with a ton of upside, Jones plays his tail off and has his best football ahead of him. He should evolve into a disruptive force on someone’s defensive line pretty quickly.) (12-14-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
2019 NFL Draft: Strengths of all prospects in top 32 (15. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State - Strengths: Hip fluidity, pass-rushing moves, burst) (12-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-strengths-of-all-prospects-currently-in-top-32/
Dwayne Haskins finishes 2018 strong, stands out on PFF's All-Big Ten selections (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR - First Team: Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State: Jones posted six sacks and 41 total pressures while winning an impressive 14.1% of his pass rushes.) (12-3-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-haskins-stands-out-2018-all-b1g-selections
NFLDraftScout.com Prospect Notebook: Week 14 (Following the Buckeyes big win, redshirt junior DTDre'Mont Jones (6-2, 286, 4.96, #86) stated that it was his "last game in the Shoe," which means Jones is as good as gone. He has racked up 36 tackles, including 12 for loss, 7.5 sacks and three forced fumbles on the season. With one of the greatest defensive tackle classes we've seen in quite some time, Jones projects as a late first/early second-round pick.) (11-26-14): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/nfldraftscout-com-prospect-notebook-week-14-hc0YazT2MU6MobFfrg9g4g/
Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Dre’Mont Jones, DL, Ohio State: “He’s a really good interior player. He would be a really good 3-4 end or 4-3 inside guy. He is really good from a technique standpoint. He uses his hands really well and he’s really quick. He is also very strong. He could probably be more aggressive against the run, but he is very good in space, he is very athletic but he is not as aggressive and tenacious. The league is trending towards more interior pass rushers and he certainly has that ability. Just watching him on tape last year, he has definitely taken a step and I think there is another step he could take. He would be an intriguing guy to take because he has upside. Gary and Bosa, I’m not going to say they are at their ceiling but they are closer to it. Historically, his type of talent would probably be a first-round pick.”) (11-21-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 1.0: Nick Bosa No. 1, Justin Herbert Top QB at No. 13 (18. DRE’MONT JONES, DT, OHIO STATE: Another product from the pipeline of Ohio State defensive line coach Larry Johnson, Jones is scratching the surface of his athletic potential, and has size and burst as a disruptive interior rush man.) (11-15-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/15/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (9. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: Jones did not find his way onto the stat sheet against Michigan State but did flash his typical martial arts repertoire of pass-rushing moves in obvious passing situations. The Spartans double teamed him often, and he was used on twists more often than usual, which negated some of the impact he could've had.) (11-14-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-zach-allen-has-the-power-refined-game-to-be-star-defensive-lineman/
2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 11 (Up - Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: Jones has been enjoying an excellent season for the Buckeyes, and I had to move him up in my mock draft with the way he has been getting after the quarterback this season. That continued versus the Michigan State, as Jones came up with a huge play to help lead his team to a road win. In the fourth quarter, Jones came through the line to recover a fumble in the end zone to get Ohio State a critical touchdown. Jones made other tackles, chasing down ball-carriers, and also put pressure on the quarterback with his speed collapse the pocket. For the NFL, Jones would fit best as a three-technique defensive tackle in a 4-3 defense. He is a fast and athletic defender who can fire his gap and cause havoc in the backfield. It would help him to get stronger for the NFL, because he can have issues when runs come downhill straight at him. Jones gets covered up somewhat and has problems shedding blocks on those plays. This season, Jones has become a consistent pass-rusher, and it is hard for NFL teams to find interior tackles who are capable of rushing the passer with consistency. Jones fits that need, so he should be in high demand next April. With his impressive season, Jones could end up being a top-20 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.) (11-13-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_11.php
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (15. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: Versus Michigan State, Jones had two tackles and recovered a fumble in the end zone for a critical touchdown. Taking on Nebraska, Jones totaled five tackles with a sack. Versus Purdue, he notched two tackles. Jones was awesome to start out the 2018 season, notching huge plays to help lead Ohio State to wins over Oregon State and TCU. He has 6.5 sacks, 28 tackles, 10 tackles for a loss, one pass batted, one forced fumble and a 28-yard pick-six on the season.) (11-13-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama's Quinnen Williams rising but not (yet) No. 1 (29. Jones: With Bosa sidelined, the pressure amps up on Jones and the rest of an always-talented Ohio State defensive line to pick up the slack. Jones is not as big or powerful as some of the other top defensive tackles in this class but his initial quickness and active hands make him difficult to contain. Teams looking for a three-technique penetrator will find Jones and his still-untapped potential very intriguing.) (11-8-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-s-quinnen-williams-rising-but-not-yet-no-1-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Quinnen Williams closing in on Ed Oliver as top DT prospect (7. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State
Jones had a sack and five tackles in Ohio State's surprisingly close win over Nebraska on Saturday. His hip fluidity and array of pass-rushing moves impressed me last season, and that's continued in 2018. He's the prototypical three technique in today's NFL.) (11-7-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-quinnen-williams-closing-in-on-ed-oliver-as-top-dt-prospect/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (23. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State. (Previously: 23 Avg. 28 per 11): Taking on Nebraska, Jones had five tackles with a sack. Versus Purdue, he had two tackles. Jones was awesome to start out the 2018 season, notching huge plays to help lead Ohio State to wins over Oregon State and TCU. He has 6.5 sacks, 28 tackles, 10 tackles for a loss, one pass batted, one forced fumble and a 28-yard pick-six on the season.) (11-7-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama vs. LSU highlight must-see Week 10 matchups: (29. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State, rJR: With Bosa sidelined, the pressure amps up on Jones and the rest of an always-talented Ohio State defensive line to pick up the slack. Jones is not as big or powerful as some of the other top defensive tackles in this class but his initial quickness and active hands make him difficult to contain. Teams looking for a three-technique penetrator will find Jones and his still-untapped potential very intriguing.) (11-2-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-vs-lsu-highlight-must-see-week-10-matchups-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 Draft Prospect Rankings: WRs Harmon, Johnson can do it all (7. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: Jones and Ohio State get a soft matchup with rebuilding Nebraska after their embarrassing loss in primetime to Purdue. Jones was good against the Boilermakers but needs to take his game to the next level down the stretch. He wins with burst off the snap and outstanding hand use.) (10-31-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-wrs-kelvin-harmon-anthony-johnson-put-their-complete-games-on-display/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (23. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State. (Previously: 23 Avg. 29 per 10): Ohio State had a bye last week. Versus Purdue, Jones had two tackles. He has been awesome to start out the 2018 season, notching huge plays to help lead Ohio State to wins over Oregon State and TCU. He has 5.5 sacks, 23 tackles, nine tackles for a loss, one pass batted, one forced fumble and a 28-yard pick-six on the season. In 2017, Jones recorded 20 tackles with five for a loss, one sack and two passes broken up. The 6-foot-3, 295-pounder was very disruptive for Ohio State. He earned a starting job as a redshirt freshman in 2016 and totaled 52 tackles. Jones has ton of physical talent with speed at the point of attack. Sources believe that he possesses a first-round skill set. He is very fast with an excellent burst off the snap to fire his gap and cause disruption in the backfield.) (10-31-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Surprising QB class shakes up the rankings (30. Jones (2018: 21 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, one INT, one TD (seven games)): With Bosa sidelined, the pressure amps up on Jones and the rest of an always-talented Ohio State defensive line to pick up the slack. Jones is not as big or powerful as some of the other top defensive tackles in this class but his initial quickness and active hands make him difficult to contain. Teams looking for a three-technique penetrator will find Jones and his still-untapped potential very intriguing.) (10-26-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-surprising-qb-class-shakes-up-the-rankings-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Washington's Ben Burr-Kirven the new-age linebacker prototype (7. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: Jones had more trouble than usual dispatching the grip of blockers against Purdue, but there were still a handful of quality reps for the polished pass-rushing defensive tackle. He's been able to stay productive from a disruption standpoint without Nick Bosa next to him on Ohio State's defensive front.) (10-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-washingtons-ben-burr-kirven-the-new-age-linebacker-prototype/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (23. Jones: Versus Purdue, Jones had two tackles. He has been awesome to start out the 2018 season, notching huge plays to help lead Ohio State to wins over Oregon State and TCU. He has 5.5 sacks, 23 tackles, nine tackles for a loss, one pass batted, one forced fumble and a 28-yard pick-six on the season.) (10-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Rankings 3.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season (21. Jones: Scrappy interior defender with a versatile game that works well at the three-technique or five-technique spot. Jones' combination of athleticism, first-step quickness and playmaking ability could make him a disruptive force at the next level. -- BB) (10-23-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000977769/article/rankings-30-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season
2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 8 (15. DRE’MONT JONES, OHIO STATE – INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN
(Week 3 Draft Board rank: 17th (+2)): Jones’ pick-6 against TCU is one for the highlight reel, yet he’s consistently made plays this year. His 23 total QB pressures rank tied for seventh among interior defensive linemen.) (10-22-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2019-nfl-draft-board-32-prospects-week-8
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Add Miami's Gerald Willis to group of premier DT prospects (6. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: Against Minnesota, Jones added a sack and a handful of backfield disruptions to his resume. He's easily one of the most effective pass-rushing defensive linemen in the country, and at his size, with his skill set, he'll fit perfectly into today's nickel-package heavy NFL.) (10-19-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-add-miamis-gerald-willis-to-group-of-premier-dt-prospects/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: ACC, SEC defenders rising as rivalry games begin (31. Jones ((2018: 21 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, one INT, one TD (seven games))): With Bosa sidelined, the pressure amps up on Jones and the rest of an always-talented Ohio State defensive line to pick up the slack. Jones is not as big or powerful as some of the other top defensive tackles in this class but his initial quickness and active hands make him difficult to contain. Teams looking for a three-technique penetrator will find Jones and his still-untapped potential very intriguing.) (10-18-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-acc-sec-defenders-rising-as-rivalry-games-begin-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
NCAA Midseason All-American Team (Defensive Interior - Honorable Mention: Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State) (10-15-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-midseason-all-american-team
2019 NFL Draft Big Board - Oregon's Justin Herbert to be tested by gifted UW DBs (21. Lawrence (2018: 20 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, one INT, one TD (six games)): With Bosa sidelined, the pressure amps up on Jones and the rest of an always-talented Ohio State defensive line to pick up the slack. Jones is not as big or powerful as some of the other top defensive tackles in this class but his initial quickness and active hands make him difficult to contain. Teams looking for a three-technique penetrator will find Jones and his still-untapped potential very intriguing.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-oregon-s-justin-herbert-to-be-tested-by-gifted-uw-dbs-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (6. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: The owner of the best hands among defensive tackles in the country, Jones, like Ohio State, started slowly against a pesky Indiana team Saturday, then turned it on in the second half. With Bosa out, he's even getting some looks on the edge. He's not a bendy prospect by any means, yet he's been able to demonstrate his arsenal of moves against offensive tackles, too. Not a bad game against the Hoosiers. Not a tremendous outing either.) (10-10-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-lsu-cornerback-greedy-williams-nearing-top-of-the-list/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (26. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State.) (10-10-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
The 5 top-graded defensive players from every Power-5 conference (1. Dre’Mont Jones, DI, Ohio State (2018 season grade: 91.6): Nick Bosa would be atop this list had he been healthy enough and in action recently. Still, it’s a Buckeye to grace the top-graded defensive players in the Big Ten with Jones sporting the top mark. He’s recorded 12 total QB pressures this season and also made one of 2018’s highlight-reel moments with his Pick-6 against TCU.) (10-5-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-top-5-defensive-players-power-5
2018 NFL Draft Big Board - New duo boost already dominant defensive line class (29. Jones (2018: 18 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, one INT, one TD (five games)): With Bosa sidelined, the pressure amps up on Jones and the rest of an always-talented Ohio State defensive line to pick up the slack. Jones is not as big or powerful as some of the other top defensive tackles in this class but his initial quickness and active hands make him difficult to contain. Teams looking for a three-technique penetrator will find Jones and his still-untapped potential very intriguing.) (10-4-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2018-nfl-draft-big-board-new-duo-boost-already-dominant-defensive-line-class-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (4. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: As is typically the case, Jones put on a pass-rushing clinic against Penn State, flashing a variety of moves -- including a few spins -- to defeat blockers at the point of attack. I noticed he got washed down the line of scrimmage on a few run plays, but you're drafting Jones to get after the quarterback. His plus athleticism and mastery level hand use make him the best in the country at his position at generating pressure.) (10-3-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-nc-states-kelvin-harmon-joins-pack-of-receivers-in-top-20/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (26. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State.) (10-3-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Rankings 2.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season (22. Jones: Big, athletic defensive tackles with playmaking ability are hard to find. That's why scouts are enamored with Jones' potential as a disruptive penetrator with explosive first-step quickness and burst. -- BB) (9-25-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000966534/article/rankings-20-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (4. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: Jones didn't load the stat sheet against Tulane, but I didn't notice anything that would warrant him to drop in my rankings. He was as fluid as usual, flashed a variety of block-defeating moves, and created pressure on a few occasions when he wasn't disrupting run plays on the inside. Actually, it was a positive showing for Jones because he was still productive without Nick Bosa on the field.) (9-25-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-d-k-metcalf-climbs-into-top-20-after-another-game-with-big-plays/
6 potential Lions prospects to watch in college football Week 4 (Dre’Mont Jones, DL, Ohio State: Jones is the perfect size to play multiple positions along the Lions defensive line at 6’3” and 285 pounds. He is an excellent athlete and can win inside (3-tech) or outside (5-tech) because he has outstanding first-step quickness to pair with heavy hands and power. Jones is consistently a disruptive presence on the interior of the Buckeyes defensive line, and he shows excellent drive and competitiveness. The Lions would use Jones up and down the line of scrimmage, and he can bring playmaking ability and a touch of nasty to their defensive line. He fits well within a Patricia defense with his combination of size, length, and raw power.) (9-22-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/22/6-potential-lions-prospects-to-watch-in-college-football-week-4/
Draft Prospect rankings: Alabama's next elite safety (4. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: His interception was an important splash paly for Ohio State's defense, and I watched Jones create an impressive amount of power with his hands after engaging with TCU offensive linemen. His swim and push-pull moves are among the best, if not the best, in the entire country among interior pass-rushers. He even put a nasty spin move on film.) (9-19-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-alabamas-deionte-thompson-emerging-as-elite-safety-prospect/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (26. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: (Previously: 34 Avg. 35.3 per 4)) (9-19-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3 (17. DRE’MONT JONES, OHIO STATE- INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN: Jones has been as disruptive as any interior defensive lineman in the nation, tying for the lead with a 90.4 pass-rush grade behind four sacks, one QB hit and three hurries.) (9-18-18): PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3
The five best defensive players in college football through Week 3 (3. DI DRE’MONT JONES, OHIO STATE 93.9: Tied for the top spot among interior pass-rushers, Jones is off to a hot start and he even showed off his running skills on a fumble recovery against TCU. On the season, he has eight pressures (four sacks, one QB hit, three hurries) on his 83 pass-rushes to go with three run stops and an interception. Jones has excellent early-season stats, but his grade has more to do with the disruption he’s created in all phases.) (9-17-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-college-the-five-best-defensive-players-in-football-week-3
PFF NCAA Week 3 – Team of the Week (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State (Week 3 Grade: 93.1): From one of the more athletic plays you’ll see from an interior defensive lineman all season long when he intercepted a Shawn Robinson shovel pass and juked his way into the end zone to his utter dominance up front, Jones put forth quite the effort in Ohio State’s victory over TCU. He may have only gotten home with one sack but Jones constantly won his 1-on-1 pass-rushing matchups to the tune of a 15.8 percent pass-rush win percentage.(9-16-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-3-team-of-the-week
Five possible Lions draft prospects: Week 3 (Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State (No. 86) (Ohio State at TCU, 8 p.m. ABC): Have we mentioned the Lions need interior help along the defensive line? Beyond Williams being on a one-year deal, Ricky Jean Francois is, as well. And, at this rate, A'Shawn Robinson might also be sent packing in 2019. He was a healthy scratch in Week 1 and doesn't seem to be the fit we all expected in Patricia's scheme. Jones is different than Brown, who we highlighted earlier. The Buckeyes standout is listed at a much smaller 286 pounds, making him more of a inside-outside guy in Detroit's defensive system, similar to Da'Shawn Hand. Jones stayed in college an extra year and drew rave reviews for his spring conditioning and performance. That's translated to two early sacks for the interior rusher. His long arms should add to his schematic appeal for the Lions.) (9-15-18):https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/15/five-possible-lions-draft-prospects-week-3/1297980002/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Clemson's Dexter Lawrence proving to be more than space-eater (4. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: Jones was spectacular against Rutgers, and I'm starting to realize he has the best combination of burst off the snap and hand usage among all interior defensive linemen in the country. Like Bosa, he's extremely polished in the pass-rush move department. Jones demonstrated an effective swim and swipe move along with a powerful bull rush and club when changing directions. ) (9-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-clemsons-dexter-lawrence-proving-to-be-more-than-space-eater/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (35. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: More D-linemen added after wowing in Week One (25. Jones: (2018: 3 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, 2 sacks (one game, Oregon State)): His teammate, Bosa, gets most of the attention and deservedly so but Jones is a legitimate first round talent in his own right. Jones is not as big or powerful as some of the other top defensive tackles in this class but his initial quickness and active hands make him difficult to contain. Teams looking for a three-technique penetrator will find Jones and his still-untapped potential very intriguing.) (9-6-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-more-d-linemen-added-after-wowing-in-week-one-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Stock (2019 NFL Draft Stock Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: In only one half of play, Dre'Mont Jones and teammate Nick Bosa absolutely dominated Oregon State in the season opener. Early in the first quarter, Jones showed serious speed and hustle to chase down a wide receiver screen about 15 yards downfield and made a clutch tackle. That set the tone for Jones to have a huge presence against the Beavers. Shortly later, Jones got his first sack of the season after using a swim move to beat the left guard and then a burst to chase down the quarterback. In the second quarter, Jones recorded his second sack of the season after darting to the inside to come straight down the pocket and hunt down the quarterback. Shortly before halftime with Oregon State throwing out of its own end zone, Jones once again used his speed to start a sack, and this time, he forced a fumble that Bosa recovered for a touchdown. Jones got his season started in excellent fashion with two sacks, a forced fumble, three tackles and a lot of disruption behind the line of scrimmage. This game will help Jones' draft grade and shows that he is an early-round talent.) (9-5-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_01.php
PFF NCAA Week 1 – Team of the Week (INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN - Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State (Week 1 grade: 91.2): We debated if 33 snaps were enough but eventually came down on the side of quality over quantity. Three sacks and a hit are hard to ignore with his 91.7 pass-rush grade tops among all interior defensive linemen.) (9-2-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-1-team-of-the-week
20 PFF College stats to know from Week 1 (Dre’Mont Jones, DI, Ohio State: Jones posted the top pass-rushing grade among interior defensive linemen with three sacks and a QB hit on only 20 pass-rushing snaps.) (9-2-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-20-pff-stats-to-know-from-week-1
Buckeyes bury Beavers behind top NFL draft prospects Bosa, Jones, Weber (9-1-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/buckeyes-bury-beavers-behind-top-nfl-draft-prospects-bosa-jones-weber-WqAYyPVK_ECLBMiGUhyTlg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (35. Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State.) (8-30-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Ranking the top 25 prospects in 2018: Bosa's bro to wreak havoc? (16. Jones: Jones flashed on tape last year, and I'm optimistic he'll take the next step this fall. The ability is there. Now it's time for the production to arrive. -- DJ) (8-30-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000952266/article/ranking-the-top-25-prospects-in-the-2018-college-football-season
2019 NFL Draft: Ohio State's two Round 1 defensive linemen and supremely gifted corner (Dre'Mont Jones, DT: Jones won't check the production box just yet, as he mustered just one sack and five tackles for loss in his redshirt sophomore season. However, his length, hip fluidity and mastery-level hand usage make him an exquisite fit as an inside rusher at the NFL level. Think Dominique Easley. In obvious passing situations, Jones is a menace. He can win with speed off the ball and rarely allows offensive linemen to control him thanks to his long, active -- and powerful -- arms. About a five-to-seven years ago, Jones would've probably been cast as a "tweener" with no real position in the pros. Now, with nickel being the NFL's base defense, the 6-foot-3, 285-pounder is your prototypical nickel defensive tackle to attack upfield. Yes, I'm a big proponent of the idea that college production (typically) translates to the NFL. There's always a few exceptions. Jones is one of them. His skills are considerably more impressive than his 2017 stat line. Anyway, he's bound to hit double-digits in the tackle-for-loss department, and it'll be nearly impossible for him to not have multiple sacks in 2018. Even if I'm wrong with that stat prediction, and he sinks into the second or even third round, Jones will make some pro team look very smart that grabs him later in the draft. ) (8-14-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-ohio-states-two-round-1-defensive-linemen-and-supremely-gifted-corner/
Scouting the Big 10 - Ohio State (Dre’Mont Jones is one of the players returning to Ohio State after an uninspired campaign. When hitting on all cylinders, Jones is a difference maker up front and a disruptive force who’s tough to stop. He has a nice combination of size, athleticism and explosion, and I fully expect Jones to be a first-round selection next April.) (7-19-18): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-big-10-ohio-state
Who Are the Defensive Linemen Expected to Dominate the 2019 NFL Draft? (DT Dre’Mont Jones, r-junior, Ohio State: Another disruptive interior presence who could have been taken in the first round in last April’s draft if he’d declared, Jones should wreak havoc with Bosa and likely 2020 first-rounder Chase Young on either side of him in Columbus.) (7-12-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/07/12/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-linemen-nick-bosa-dexter-lawrence
NFL Draft Defender Ranks (8. Dre’Mont Jones (6'3/291) has had an interesting career, hasn’t he? Jones burst on the scene by posting 52 total tackles as a redshirt freshman in 2016, the most of any Buckeyes defensive linemen (think about that for a sec). But last year, instead of taking a developmental leap, he took a step back amid a stacked depth chart. Jones regressed to only 20 total tackles (five TFL, one sack) while missing three games after cutting his leg against Rutgers. With three OSU defensive linemen off to the NFL and Nick Bosa drawing ample attention off the edge, Jones has a prime chance to emerge as a star in 2018.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks
2019 NFL Draft: An early introduction to nine of the potential top defensive linemen (Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State
Experience: In two seasons and 23 games for the Buckeyes, Jones has 71 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and one sack. Strengths: Awesome burst off the snap and twitchiness to sneak through a gap if need be. Long arms he uses rapidly as a pass-rusher. Defensive tackle in a defensive end body which helps him against slower interior blockers. Statistics don't tell the entire story of how disruptive he's been at Ohio State, particularly last season. Pass-rush specialist. Weaknesses: Height and clear lack of strength lead to him getting washed out against the run too often. Wide array of initial pass-rushing moves but needs to learn a counter or two. Doubles often put him on skates. Early comparison: Dominique Easley) (5-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-an-early-introduction-to-the-potential-top-dl-in-next-years-draft-nick-bosa/
18 for '18: Defensive prospects who will be NFL stars (16. Jones: The Buckeyes' defensive tackle passed on an opportunity to enter the 2018 NFL Draft, returning for another season in Columbus instead. He missed some action last year with a bizarre injury in which he cut his leg, requiring stitches, during locker room horseplay. He had an outstanding spring and drew high praise from the OSU coaching staff. Primed to anchor the interior of the OSU's always-stout defensive line, Jones excels as a pass rusher, but has room for improvement as a run stopper. We're expecting him to make strides in that area, and take his already impressive game to another level.) (5-22-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000933757/article/18-for-18-defensive-prospects-who-will-be-nfl-stars
DT Dexter Lawrence:
NFL Combine winners, losers: Kyler Murray critics take L; D-line freaks show off (D-line freaks - A loaded class of edge-rushers did not disappoint. That included Nick Bosa and Quinnen Williams, who are in a battle to be the first pick among defensive linemen, but they have competition. Montez Sweat ran a 4.41 40-yard dash. Rashan Gary ran a 4.58. Dexter Lawrence put up 36 reps in the bench press, and we haven’t seen a full workout yet from Ed Oliver. These guys will be the story of the first round of the draft.) (3-5-19): http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2019-winners-losers-kyler-murray-critics-defensive-linemen/csnr73i17bkm1gyz9c56j81cc
Dexter Lawrence nearly tied Dwayne Haskins in the 40 -- and he weighs 342 pounds (3-4-19): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/03/dexter-lawrence-outran-dwayne-haskins-and-he-weighs-342-pounds.html
2019 NFL Scouting Combine: Twelve numbers that matter most (84 inches: Dexter Lawrence injured his quad on his first 40-yard dash attempt, but the body measurables we got on him help justify scouting takes that he has the potential to be a rare interior player. Lawrence's 84-inch wingspan is 7.5 inches longer than his height (he's 6-4 1/2 or 76.5 inches tall). With 34 3/4-inch arms and 10 1/2-inch hands, Lawrence's dimensions put him into a category where more elite and above-average players have come from.) (3-4-19): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001021021/article/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-twelve-numbers-that-matter-most
Combine Confidential: Defense Risers and Sliders (One of the blazing defensive linemen in attendance was Clemson defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, who ran an impressive 5.05 forty-yard dash at 342 pounds. However, Lawrence would suffer a minor quad strain on the run, preventing him from finishing up the combine drills in Indy. He’ll now look to complete the remainder of the tests at the Tigers pro day workout on March 14th.) (3-4-19): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/combine-confidential-defense-risers-sliders-dkFc3m7x1kKIO0nTKpPs6A/
Sunday's 2019 Combine winners: Interior defensive line (Dexter Lawrence, Clemson: At 342-pounds a 5.05 (40) and 1.76 (10) is incredibly impressive. He injured his Quad in the 40, so he was unable to work out on the field, but he did enough in his one run to keep people interested in his Pro Day.) (3-3-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/sundays-2019-combine-winners-interior-defensive-line/
2019 NFL Combine Stock Report: Defensive Linemen (Up - Dexter Lawrence injured his quad on his first 40 run, but what a 40 it was! Lawrence ran a 5.05 with a 1.76 10-yard split. He did this despite measuring in at 6-5, 342! Lawrence also benched 36 reps the day before. He'll have a chance to complete his workout at the Clemson pro day, but Lawrence's stock is definitely up after that impressive 40.) (3-3-19): http://walterfootball.com/combine2019stockDL.php
Dexter Lawrence suffers apparent leg injury at NFL Combine (3-3-19): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001020654/article/dexter-lawrence-suffers-apparent-leg-injury-at-nfl-combine
Clemson DL Dexter Lawrence says every time he pees in cup, he prays (3-2-19): http://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/clemson-defensive-lineman-dexter-lawrence-says-every-time-he-pees-in-cup-he-prays/1wd800fsybulh1asku5uz5vjau
2019 NFL Combine: Here's a look at the drills and the prospects who could ace them (Bench Press - This is one of the most overrated, not super-translatable drills at the combine. It undoubtedly measures upper body strength, but it's typically the shorter-armed prospects who thrive in the bench. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson: Lawrence is a gargantuan human listed at 6-foot-4 and 340 pounds during his junior year in 2018. On film, his bull rush is impossibly powerful. That same movement will be used in the bench. I'm expecting somewhere in the 33-37 rep range for Lawrence.) (2-28-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-heres-a-look-at-the-drills-and-the-prospects-who-could-ace-them/
12 draft prospects who need to stand out at the 2019 NFL Scouting Combine (Dexter Lawrence, DL, Clemson: Watch out when Lawrence starts rolling through the defensive line drills, because he could easily be one of the stars of the combine. Watch him play everything from nose tackle to big end for Clemson, and you see a guy who should not move as well as he does at his unofficial weight of 355 pounds. Memphis’ Dontari Poe shocked everyone at the 2012 combine with an official 4.98 40-yard dash at 6’3” and 346 pounds, and based on what he shows on the field, Lawrence may have similar potential. Poe’s combine performance got him selected 11th overall by the Chiefs. Lawrence would be in for a similar draft bump.) (2-27-19): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2019/02/27/12-draft-prospects-who-need-to-stand-out-at-the-scouting-combine/
9 players with something to prove at NFL combine (Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson: A positive test for a trace of ostarine, a substance banned by the NCAA as an anabolic agent, forced Lawrence to miss the College Football Playoff, and teams will undoubtedly be seeking an explanation. On the field, Lawrence's stock could be shaped in part by whether teams view him as merely a two-down run stopper or a more dynamic interior presence. While the 6-4, 350-pounder shows more than enough power for the former role and could record one of the highest number of bench press reps of any player, exhibiting explosiveness and quickness will be integral to convince teams he can also get after the quarterback.) (2-27-19): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2019/02/27/nfl-combine-2019-9-players-something-prove/2935521002/
Dexter Lawrence: Film Room (1-28-19): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-film-room-dexter-lawrence
7 draft prospects in CFP title game for Lions (DT Dexter Lawrence
Lawrence won’t play Monday night because of a failed test for the performance-enhancing drug ostarine, but he’s projected as a first-round pick in April’s draft. He’s 6-4 and 350 pounds, and his girth and athleticism make him one of college football’s best run defenders. The Lions probably aren’t in the market for another nose tackle, but Damon Harrison is 30 years old and on the books for big money the next two years. If Lawrence slips because of his failed test, the Lions could pounce and field the largest defensive line in the league.) (1-6-19): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/01/06/alabama-clemson-nfl-draft-prospects/2495356002/
Top players for Lions to watch in Alabama-Clemson (3. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson. Yes, Lawrence will not play in this game up front for Clemson, but there is no doubting his obvious talent along the line and that will be something for the Lions to remember in terms of watching his replacements up front and remembering the impact Lawrence had on the defense when he was involved. Lawrence was popped for a banned substance leading up to this game, but had a great season for the Tigers otherwise and could sink in the draft a bit as a result of this. If that happens, the Lions may need to remember him in the top of the 2nd round, where they will pick. No doubt he would have had a big impact on this game and Detroit will know this.) (1-5-19): https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Alabama-Clemson-Lions-top-players-to-watch-127351902/
2019 NFL Draft Stock - Bowls (Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson: Lawrence did some damage to his draft grade with a suspension prior to the Cotton Bowl. He had a failed drug test and lost the appeal. Over the last year or two, Lawrence has not been as good on the field as he was during his freshman season, and now Lawrence adds a failed test to turn off some NFL teams. After the failed test, going late in the first round is about as high as Lawrence could hope to go in the 2019 NFL Draft.) (1-1-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_18.php
Cotton Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Clemson vs. Notre Dame bowl game (Dexter Lawrence, DT (expected to be suspended):
Lawrence is a rare prospect. And the word "rare" can be used too often at times. But at 6-foot-4 and 345ish pounds with the acceleration off the snap of an undersized three technique and a developed arsenal of pass-rushing moves, Lawrence truly is a rare defensive lineman. The failed PED test shouldn't sink his stock much -- if at all -- in the draft. Like Lawrence, he's primed to go somewhere in the middle of the first round.) (12-29-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/cotton-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-clemson-vs-notre-dame-bowl-game/
The Draft Prospects the NFL Is Watching This Bowl Season (Clemson: DT Dexter Lawrence is one of three Clemson players who failed drug tests because they had traces of the illegal substance ostarine in their samples. He was one of three projected first-round talents on the Tigers’ defensive line, along with DT Christian Wilkins and DE Clelin Ferrell.) (12-27-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/27/2019-nfl-draft-bowl-season
Prospect Rankings – top 2019 NFL Draft prospects in the College Football Playoff (3. DEXTER LAWRENCE, CLEMSON – DI: Lawrence has incredible power, and at 340 pounds, he has been one of the best run-stopping defensive linemen in the nation in his three seasons at Clemson. His ability to push the pocket and get after the quarterback is what makes him a top prospect, as he has averaged 33 pressures per season, more than his more-heralded teammate Christian Wilkins.) (12-22-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-top-50-prospects-in-college-football-playoff
A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (Junior defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (6 feet 4 inches, 350 pounds) might not be worth the high pick with what Damon Harrison is doing, but he's nonetheless fun to watch clogging the middle of that line.) (12-15-18): https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html
NFL Draft 2019 Position Primers: Quinnen Williams Leads Interior Defensive Linemen (DEXTER LAWRENCE, CLEMSON: Lawrence is a sheer run stuffer, compared to Vita Vea of the Buccaneers at 350 pounds. The biggest questions come from his ability to stay on the field on third down, with doubts surrounding his upside as a pass rusher. Ferrell and Wilkins provided a majority of the QB pressure for Clemson in 2018. Yet even with the pass-defense skepticism, Lawrence is as rock-solid of a run presence as you will find, built in the mold of Damon Harrison.) (12-14-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/nfl-draft-2019-position-primer-top-interior-defensive-linemen
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 2.0: Herbert Moves Into Top 10, Uptick in Offense in Latest Rankings (17. DEXTER LAWRENCE, DT, CLEMSON (Height: 6' 3" | Weight: 350 pounds): Lawrence is probably the best run defender in the draft, and an absolute mountain of a man. So why is he so far down the list, despite being on the national radar since his true freshman season? The feeling is that might be all he is—and, as such, maybe a two-down player.) (12-14-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
2019 NFL Draft: Strengths of all prospects in top 32 (22. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson - Strengths: Mammoth size, athleticism, pass-rushing moves) (12-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-strengths-of-all-prospects-currently-in-top-32/
Prospects: Who should stay, go (Dexter Lawrence, Clemson: Once arguably the most prized recruit in the nation, Lawrence has looked the part from the moment he stopped on campus at Clemson. Blessed with monstrous size and freakish athleticism, Lawrence has clogged the middle for the Tigers for three full seasons now, and he's skilled enough to beat interior offensive linemen en route to the quarterback. Should he stay or go? Go. At his size -- 6-4, 350 pounds -- with his advanced hand work, Lawrence is ready to be the extremely rare pass-rushing nose tackle at the NFL level.) (12-4-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-underclassmen-tracker-who-should-declare-who-should-go-back-to-school/
Trevor Lawrence, Travis Etienne headline PFF's 2018 All-ACC selections (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR - First Team: Dexter Lawrence, Clemson: The fellow 1-2 punch along the Clemson defensive interior, Lawrence racked up a conference-best 10 QB hits and finished second only behind his teammate with 31 total QB pressures.) (12-3-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-lawrence-etienne-2018-all-acc-selections
Scout's Eye: Top NFL Prospects to Watch in Week 14 - nfldraftscout.com (DT Dexter Lawrence, Clemson, JR. (6-3, 340, 5.27, #90): No one is going to question the value of Lawrence, another athletic freak on this extraordinary defensive line. At 340 pounds, he has been timed in the 4.9-range for 40 yards and has just 18 percent body fat. He also recorded 32 bench press reps of 225 as a freshman and can dunk a basketball. Considered a high character player, Lawrence demonstrates great balance, excellent hand placement and keen instincts. He has superstar written all over him.) (11-29-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-top-nfl-prospects-to-watch-in-week-14-SkyfQCAuNEWZdnMUyJnjYw/
Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson: “Lawrence has pass rush upside, but right now he really projects as a big two-down run defender. That’s where he will slide in the draft, because some teams will question how quickly he can get on the field on third down for them. I do think he has the potential to do it, but college inside rushers, they just don’t work a lot of pass rush. He is a gargantuan human being. As a true freshman he looked like he was a grown man. His body type is really hard to find and he’s athletic. He has a chance to be a force, he just has to develop that pass rush skillset. His tape this year is a lot better than last year, he was only playing at about 50 percent as a sophomore because of injury. His tape was up and down, and before I knew about the injury I thought he was over-hyped. Then Clemson’s trainer told me he was really hurt last year, and he gutted through and played through it, but he was not close to being right. His tape is a lot better this year.”) (11-21-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 1.0: Nick Bosa No. 1, Justin Herbert Top QB at No. 13 (12. DEXTER LAWRENCE, DT, CLEMSON: Lawrence is a little antithetical to Wilkins—just a massive body with strength and athleticism to clog up the middle for a defense. The Tigers defense deploys him aggressively, but in the NFL he’ll likely find his value as a brick wall of a run defender.) (11-15-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/15/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (13. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson: Lawrence made three tackles against Boston College and played well in terms of disruption at the point of attack. In a blowout win for Clemson over Wake Forest, Lawrence did not record any stats. He previously notched three tackles versus Syracuse. A week earlier against Texas A&M, he collected three tackles. He also had a few pressures in the pass rush and caused some disruption. Lawrence has 25 tackles with three for a loss on the year.) (11-13-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (13. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 13 Avg. 13.5 per 11): Lawrence had six tackles taking on Louisville and played well with disruption at the point of attack. In a blowout win for Clemson over Wake Forest, Lawrence did not record any stats. He previously notched three tackles versus Syracuse. A week earlier against Texas A&M, he collected three tackles. He also had a few pressures in the pass rush and caused some disruption. Lawrence has 22 tackles with two for a loss on the year.) (11-7-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama vs. LSU highlight must-see Week 10 matchups: (21. Dexter Lawrence, NG, Clemson, Jr: Given how the quick passing game has taken over the NFL, traditional run-stuffers like Lawrence do not hold the same value they once did. The NFL remains a big man’s game, however, and few boast Lawrence’s combination of size, power and athleticism. In some ways, Lawrence’s elite traits (but relatively pedestrian production) are reminiscent of last year’s No. 13 overall pick, Da'Ron Payne, who recorded just five sacks over three seasons with the Crimson Tide but shut down opposing running games.) (11-2-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-vs-lsu-highlight-must-see-week-10-matchups-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (13. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 13 Avg. 13.6 per 10): Lawrence had two tackles taking on Florida State and played well with disruption at the point of attack. In a blowout win for Clemson over Wake Forest, Lawrence did not record any stats. He previously notched three tackles versus Syracuse. A week earlier against Texas A&M, he collected three tackles. He also had a few pressures in the pass rush and caused some disruption. Lawrence has 16 tackles with 1.5 for a loss on the year.) (10-31-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Surprising QB class shakes up the rankings (21. Lawrence (2018: 15 tackles, one tackle for loss, zero sacks (seven games)): Given how the quick passing game has taken over the NFL, traditional run-stuffers like Lawrence do not hold the same value they once did. The NFL remains a big man’s game, however, and few boast Lawrence’s combination of size, power and athleticism. In some ways, Lawrence’s elite traits (but relatively pedestrian production) are reminiscent of last year’s No. 13 overall pick, Da'Ron Payne, who recorded just five sacks over three seasons with the Crimson Tide but shut down opposing running games.) (10-26-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-surprising-qb-class-shakes-up-the-rankings-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (13. Lawrence: Lawrence had four tackles taking on N.C. State. In a blowout win for Clemson over Wake Forest, Lawrence did not record any stats. He previously notched three tackles versus Syracuse. A week earlier against Texas A&M, he collected three tackles. He also had a few pressures in the pass rush and caused some disruption. Lawrence has 16 tackles with 1.5 for a loss on the year.) (10-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Rankings 3.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season (8. Lawrence: Lawrence has the ability to dominate against the run, but I'd still like to see some growth from him as a pass rusher. -- DJ) (10-23-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000977769/article/rankings-30-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season
Defensive line full of future NFL draft picks help Clemson bury NC State (Clemson owned the advantage in size and athleticism at most positions but it was especially obvious along the line of scrimmage, where the Tigers’ dynamic duo of defensive tackles Christian Wilkins and Dexter Lawrence routinely collapsed the middle, allowing twitchy edge rusher Clelin Ferrell (among others) to clean up. His statistical and physical opposite – the 6-foot-3, 350 pound Lawrence – is the perfect complement as Clemson’s immovable nose guard and one of the nation’s most imposing players. With his numbers plummeting since a dominant freshman campaign in which he registered 62 tackles (including 8.5 for loss and 6.5 sacks), Lawrence has drawn his share of criticism this season. That is justifiable considering that he entered Saturday’s tilt with just 11 total tackles on the season (including just half a tackle for loss). For those scouting based on box scores, Lawrence re-established himself Saturday, registering a season-high four tackles (including a half tackle for loss). As with all nose guards, however, Lawrence’s value lies more with his ability to eat up double-teams and open up opportunities for teammates to pad their statistics than he registering stops of his own. Lawrence was noticeably more active in this game, however, stuffing the middle on short yardage and showing his underrated lateral agility and balance as a short-area pursuer. Players of Lawrence's size aren't supposed to be this light on their feet.) (10-22-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/defensive-line-full-of-future-nfl-draft-picks-help-clemson-bury-nc-state-HaQkjlVx9kaWoQ_i2PCMTg/
2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 8 (10. DEXTER LAWRENCE, CLEMSON – INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN (Week 3 Draft Board rank: 9th (-1)): Playing along one of the nation’s most talented defensive fronts, Lawrence has racked up 17 QB pressures despite being kept off the stat sheet in terms of sacks.) (10-22-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2019-nfl-draft-board-32-prospects-week-8
NFL Prospect Matchups: NC State vs. Clemson (His task is a tough one, as Bradbury must stop the Tigers duo of Christian Wilkins and Dexter Lawrence. When on his game Wilkins, is an unstoppable force and a complete three-down lineman. He’s a dominant pass rusher who occupies the gaps or chases the action in pursuit to make plays in space. Wilkins is not always on his game, which is a problem. Lawrence is bigger and more powerful but slightly overrated in my view. He destroys opponents on occasion, but Lawrence does not play with leverage, which dissipates much of his natural size and power.) (10-19-18): http://draftanalyst.com/nfl-prospect-matchups-nc-state-vs-clemson
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: ACC, SEC defenders rising as rivalry games begin (21. Lawrence ((2018: 11 tackles, .5 tackles for loss, zero sacks (six games)): Given how the quick passing game has taken over the NFL, traditional run-stuffers like Lawrence do not hold the same value they once did. The NFL remains a big man’s game, however, and few boast Lawrence’s combination of size, power and athleticism. In some ways, Lawrence’s elite traits (but relatively pedestrian production) are reminiscent of last year’s No. 13 overall pick, Da'Ron Payne, who recorded just five sacks over three seasons with the Crimson Tide but shut down opposing running games.) (10-18-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-acc-sec-defenders-rising-as-rivalry-games-begin-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (12. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 13 Avg. 13.8 per 8): Clemson had a bye last week. In a blowout win for Clemson over Wake Forest, Lawrence did not record any stats. He previously notched three tackles versus Syracuse. A week earlier against Texas A&M, he collected three tackles. He also had a few pressures in the pass rush and caused some disruption. Lawrence has 12 tackles with one for a loss on the year.) (10-17-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board - Oregon's Justin Herbert to be tested by gifted UW DBs (21. Lawrence (2018: 11 tackles, .5 tackles for loss, zero sacks (six games)): Given how the quick passing game has taken over the NFL, traditional run-stuffers like Lawrence do not hold the same value they once did. The NFL remains a big man’s game, however, and few boast Lawrence’s combination of size, power and athleticism. In some ways, Lawrence’s elite traits (but relatively pedestrian production) are reminiscent of last year’s No. 13 overall pick, Da'Ron Payne, who recorded just five sacks over three seasons with the Crimson Tide but shut down opposing running games.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-oregon-s-justin-herbert-to-be-tested-by-gifted-uw-dbs-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (13. Lawrence: In a blowout win for Clemson over Wake Forest, Lawrence did not record any stats. He previously notched three tackles versus Syracuse. A week earlier against Texas A&M, he collected three tackles. He also had a few pressures in the pass rush and caused some disruption. Lawrence has 12 tackles with one for a loss on the year.) (10-10-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
The 5 top-graded defensive players from every Power-5 conference (5. Dexter Lawrence, DI, Clemson (2018 season grade: 85.9): One of the big-three along the Clemson defensive line, Lawrence has had three triumphant years of grading with the Tigers. While his pass-rushing numbers declined a year ago and he may be without a sack so far this season, his 14 total pressures are just four short of the 18 he managed all of last year.) (10-5-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-top-5-defensive-players-power-5
2018 NFL Draft Big Board - New duo boost already dominant defensive line class (18. Lawrence (2018: 11 tackles, .5 tackles for loss (five games)): Given how the quick passing game has taken over the NFL, traditional run-stuffers like Lawrence do not hold the same value they once did. The NFL remains a big man’s game, however, and few boast Lawrence’s combination of size, power and athleticism. In some ways, Lawrence’s elite traits (but relatively pedestrian production) are reminiscent of last year’s No. 13 overall pick, Da'Ron Payne, who recorded just five sacks over three seasons with the Crimson Tide but shut down opposing running games.) (10-4-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2018-nfl-draft-big-board-new-duo-boost-already-dominant-defensive-line-class-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (15. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 14 Avg. 14.2 per 6): Lawrence notched three tackles versus Syracuse. A week earlier against Texas A&M, he collected three tackles. He also had a few pressures in the pass rush and caused some disruption. Lawrence has 12 tackles with one for a loss on the year.) (10-3-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Five possible Lions draft prospects: Week 5 (Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson (No. 9): There is no larger hole on Detroit's defense, literally and figuratively, than a space-eating nose tackle. Sylvester Williams is fine, as a stop-gap, but the Lions lack a true, gap-devouring monster in the middle. Lawrence could be Detroit's Vince Wilfork. The Clemson standout, part of college football most dominant defensive line, tips the scales at 340 pounds, but possesses extraordinary athleticism for his size. Adding Lawrence to the mix would instantly make it much tougher to run up the gut in Detroit. ) (9-28-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/09/28/five-possible-lions-draft-prospects-week-5/1448997002/
Rankings 2.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season (8. Lawrence: Lawrence is healthier this season and it shows. He looks more explosive and is moving much better laterally. -- DJ) (9-25-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000966534/article/rankings-20-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season
Draft Prospect rankings: Alabama's next elite safety (15. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson: It was more about the collective Clemson defense than any one individual effort in the win over Georgia Southern, but I did see what's become the typical quick sheds and scrapes down the line from Lawrence, and his brute strength was noticeable too. Which is always the case.) (9-19-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-alabamas-deionte-thompson-emerging-as-elite-safety-prospect/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (14. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 14 Avg. 14 per 4): Lawrence notched four tackles versus Georgia Southern. A week earlier against Texas A&M, he notched three tackles. In the pass rush, he had a few pressures and caused some disruption. Lawrence has nine tackles with one for a loss on the year) (9-19-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3 (9. DEXTER LAWRENCE, CLEMSON – INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN: Lawrence has posted the best all-around grades among Clemson defensive linemen, and the 340-pounder is at it again with an 86.1 overall grade and 12 pressures (four QB hits, eight hurries) on just 48 rushes.) (9-18-18): PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (14. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson.: Lawrence notched three tackles against Texas A&M. In the pass rush, he had a few pressures and caused some disruption. He has five tackles with one for a loss on the year.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
20 PFF college stats to know from week 2 (Ed Oliver & Dexter Lawrence, interior defensive linemen: Oliver notched a career-high six pressures, all hurries, on 33 rushes while Lawrence also accumulated six pressures but on 34 pass-rushes.) (9-9-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-20-pff-stats-to-know-from-week-2
Scout's Eye: Top NFL Prospects to Watch in Week 2 (DT Dexter Lawrence, Clemson, JR. (6-3, 340, 5.27, #90): While chipping in with just two tackles in Week 1, no one is going to question the value of Lawrence, another athletic freak on this extraordinary defensive line. He has been timed in the 4.9-range at 340-plus pounds and has just 18 percent body fat. He also recorded 32 bench-press reps of 225 as a freshman and can dunk a basketball. Considered a high-character player, Lawrence demonstrates great balance, excellent hand placement and the keen sense to read and react quickly to plays. He also possesses great football instincts, has played on special teams and has helped pave the way for touchdowns on offense, lining up at fullback at times. The light-footed dancing bear plays with an aggressive mentality but is described as a "teddy bear" off the field by his teammates. His footwork and polished technique, along with his experience has superstar written all over him.) (9-6-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-top-nfl-prospects-to-watch-in-week-2-VoweurroqkiJp5IAsj2jFA/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: More D-linemen added after wowing in Week One (10. Lawrence (2018: 2 tackles, .5 tackle for loss (one game, Furman)): Given how the quick passing game has taken over the NFL, traditional run-stuffers like Lawrence do not hold the same value they once did. The NFL remains a big man’s game, however, and few boast Lawrence’s combination of size, power and athleticism. In some ways, Lawrence’s elite traits (but relatively pedestrian production) are reminiscent of last year’s No. 12 overall pick, Vita Vea (Tampa Bay).) (9-6-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-more-d-linemen-added-after-wowing-in-week-one-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (14. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson.: Lawrence totaled 34 tackles with 2.5 sacks in 2017. While he wasn't as good as he was in 2016, and his production reflected that, he helped create a lot of sacks for those around him. Some team sources wonder if Lawrence was playing injured as a sophomore. Lawrence was a tremendous freshman to help Clemson win the National Championship. NFL sources were raving about him in the 2017 preseason, as he was impossible to ignore in 2016. Lawrence was an All-Freshman selection all over the nation while being the ACC Rookie of the Year for that season. He totaled 63 tackles with 9.5 tackles for a loss, seven sacks and a pass batted that year. One national scout for a NFC team told me that they thought Lawrence was among the two most disruptive defensive linemen in 2016, along with Alabama's Jonathan Allen.) (8-30-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Ranking the top 25 prospects in 2018: Bosa's bro to wreak havoc? (20. Lawrence: Monster-sized defensive tackle with disruptive potential as a run stopper. Lawrence gobbles up blockers and ball carriers at the point of attack. Although his sack numbers are low (8.5 in two seasons), he flashes a little pass-rush ability as a pocket pusher on the inside. -- BB) (8-30-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000952266/article/ranking-the-top-25-prospects-in-the-2018-college-football-season
2019 NFL Draft prospect rankings -- top 5 at every position (3. Dexter Lawrence, Clemson: Strengths – Great size and excellent disruptor in the run game, as he’s able to jack up blockers and deter running backs. Can push the pocket and rush the passer, ranking third among FBS defensive tackles with a pass rush productivity of 11.8 in 2016. Room to improve in 2018 – Pass-rush productivity dropped to 7.0 last season (25th in FBS) and he can be moved by double-teams, despite his 340-pound frame.) (8-14-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-5-at-every-position
Scouting the ACC - Clemson (Much the same can be said for Dexter Lawrence, who’s bigger and more of a space eater compared to his teammate. Lawrence is an immovable force with great power and the ability to collapse the pocket. Lawrence not only takes an occasional play off, but he does not bend his knees or play with leverage. Too many times I’ve seen him handled at the point by opponents he should annihilate, and that is a major concern.) (7-27-18): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-acc-clemson-0
2018 college football season: Top 11 defensive linemen to watch (11. Lawrence: Lawrence was slowed by a foot injury for much of last season, which might explain his disappointing drop in production. The massive defensive tackle is expected to return healthy this season to impose his will on guards and centers across from him. Despite his 6.5 sacks as a freshman, I see Lawrence as an early down run-stuffer who will come off the field on passing downs once he makes it to the league. Therefore, his draft value will be directly tied to how productive (and frankly, dominant) he can become against the run. He has the size, strength and length to take over games, but we need to see more of it in 2018.) (7-13-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000940247/article/2018-college-football-season-top-11-defensive-linemen-to-watch
Who Are the Defensive Linemen Expected to Dominate the 2019 NFL Draft? (DT Dexter Lawrence, junior, Clemson: Listed at 6' 4" and 340 pounds, Lawrence has been on the NFL’s radar since his freshman All-America season of 2016. He’s not the disruptive force that some of his linemates are, but he’d be an ideal fit for a 3-4 team as a tough-to-move, three-down lineman. Most scouts think he has the capacity to improve as he learns to play lower and maybe loses a few pounds.) (7-12-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/07/12/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-linemen-nick-bosa-dexter-lawrence
18 for '18: College football's most freakish athletes (4. Lawrence: The Tigers' massive anchor on the defensive line now checks in at 349 pounds, yet turns in speed and agility testing that draft prospects under 300 pounds would be thrilled with: a 4.95-second 40-yard dash, a 1.70-second 10-yard split, and a 3-cone drill time of 7.67. Then there is his strength and power -- it's just as evident in his play as it is in the Clemson weight room. Lawrence can now rep 225 pounds on the bench press 36 times, a number which would have ranked fourth at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine, and power clean 345 pounds.)(6-29-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000938992/article/18-for-18-college-footballs-most-freakish-athletes
Scouting Dexter Lawrence: Raw Clemson DT has big potential (6-21-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000938136/article/scouting-dexter-lawrence-raw-clemson-dt-has-big-potential
NFL Draft Defender Ranks (3. Lawrence: I don’t know if I’ve written about a prospect who epitomizes the term “dancing bear” quite like Dexter Lawrence. The 6-foot-4, 340-pounder reportedly only has 18 percent body fat. A former five-star recruit who contributed immediately as a true freshman to Clemson’s national championship team, Lawrence is a better prospect than Vita Vea.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks
2019 NFL Draft: An early introduction to nine of the potential top defensive linemen (Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
Experience: Accumulated 95 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks in his first two seasons at Clemson in 25 games. Strengths: Already has the body of a mammoth nose tackle at 6-foot-4 and 340 pounds. Frame can generate major power. Doesn't blatantly lose many one-on-one battles and is rarely moved off the ball by double teams. Can shed blocks on the inside against the run. Is like a freight train on his way to the quarterback and will knock helping blockers out of the way. Moves considerably better than vast majority of college defensive linemen his size. Occasionally wins through a gap with quickness. Enormous nose tackle with awesome movement skills and good power. Weaknesses: Somewhat of a clunky mover and though he makes concerted effort to keep blockers off him, his hands move slowly. Not a penetrator and doesn't possess the ability to sustain his speed to be a serious pass-rushing threat right now. Occasionally came off the field in pass-rushing situations.Early comparison: Dontari Poe) (5-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-an-early-introduction-to-the-potential-top-dl-in-next-years-draft-nick-bosa/
18 for '18: Defensive prospects who will be NFL stars (13. Dexter Lawrence - DT: At a weight that's been known to roam between 335 and 350 or more, Lawrence is one of the college game's biggest and most fearsome defenders, all belied by a teddy-bear demeanor off the field. Double teams find him immovable, which allows Clemson linebackers to attack inside run plays with greater ease. But unlike most space-eating DTs, Lawrence is also a playmaker. He's made a whopping 118 tackles in just 23 career starts over two seasons, with 9.5 sacks.) (5-22-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000933757/article/18-for-18-defensive-prospects-who-will-be-nfl-stars
DT Jeff Simmons:
Scouting Reports:
Jeffery Simmons NFL draft profile: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/02/04/jeffery-simmons-nfl-draft-profile/
NFL Hot Press: Jeffery Simmons Still Sought After (3-3-19): http://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Jeffery-Simmons-Still-Sought-After
12 draft prospects who need to stand out at the 2019 NFL Scouting Combine (Jeffery Simmons, DL, Mississippi State: Based on pure talent, there’s no question that Simmons is a top-10 pick—his tape brings Ndamukong Suh to mind at times. But he’ll have a couple of things to deal with when talking with teams—the 2016 video in which he was caught punching a woman multiple times during a fight, and the knee injury he suffered during workouts in January that may delay his ability to perform at any level in his rookie year. By all accounts, Simmons has been a model citizen since the 2016 incident, and NFL teams will overlook a lot when a player’s tape shows what Simmons’ has over the last three seasons.) (2-27-19): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2019/02/27/12-draft-prospects-who-need-to-stand-out-at-the-scouting-combine/
Ten bold predictions for the 2019 NFL Scouting Combine (3. No one has more on the line than Colorado State WR Preston Williams: Sure, timed events like the 40-yard dash are important for Williams but for he, Mississippi State's Simmons and Louisiana Tech defensive end Jaylon Ferguson - the three talented players only begrudgingly invited to the Combine this year due to off-field issues - the interview process is absolutely critical. By remaining at Mississippi State and Louisiana Tech throughout their respective careers, Simmons and Ferguson had time to build relationships with their coaching staffs. Williams, a Tennessee transfer and former five-star recruit, did not have as much time to do so at Colorado State, starring only one year there. Given his talent and off-field concerns, Williams might be the most polarizing prospect in the draft.) (2-25-19): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/ten-bold-predictions-for-the-2019-nfl-scouting-combine-Pujzj6Cxwk-9WVKUKgV1Xw/
2019 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine (Down - Simmons: Entering the draft season, Simmons was one of the best prospects for the 2019 NFL Draft and had the potential to be a top-10 pick. Unfortunately for Simmons, he tore an ACL during combine-preparation workouts. That injury will knock him out of workouts leading up the 2019 NFL Draft and could cause him to miss some or all of his rookie season. As a result, Simmons will probably slide in the 2019 NFL Draft and end up being a selection in the back half of the first round or early on Day 2.) (2-19-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_22.php
$.05 For President's Day (Mississippi State DT Jeffery Simmons, a likely top-20 overall pick, tore his ACL in training. This unfortunate injury throws his rookie year into serious doubt, and now we’re all trying to ascertain how much that impacts his draft status. Simmons was already out of the Combine due to an assault arrest earlier in his adult life, another flag that must be accounted for. I still see Simmons being drafted in the 33-45 overall range as long as he satisfactorily mollifies the character worries.) (2-18-19): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3139/$05-For-Presidents-Day
Three prospects allowed at combine for med. evals (Ferguson, Simmons, Williams) (2-15-19): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001018062/article/ferguson-others-allowed-at-combine-for-medical-evals
How Jeffery Simmons' injury impacts the 2019 NFL Draft (2-13-19): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-how-jeffery-simmons-injury-impacts-the-2019-nfl-draft
Projected 1st-round pick Jeffery Simmons suffers knee injury, torn ACL feared (2-12-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/02/12/2019-nfl-draft-jeffery-simmons-knee-injury-torn-acl/
Jeffery Simmons named Lions must-draft prospect (1-31-19): https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Jeffery-Simmons-Lions-must-draft-prospect-128523637/
2019 NFL draft: 2 top prospects barred from combine due to past arrests (DT Jeffrey Simmons and WR Preston Williams) (1-31-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/01/31/2019-nfl-draft-combine-jeffery-simmons-preston-williams/
Jeffery Simmons: Film Room (1-23-19): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-film-room-jeffery-simmons
Draft: Analysis of top underclassmen (Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State
Leans on his long arms and developed hand work to win consistently at the point of attack.) (1-15-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-here-are-the-top-underclassman-draft-prospects-you-need-to-know/
Outback Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Mississippi State vs. Iowa bowl game (Jeffery Simmons, DT: Simmons went into the season on the first-round radar after 12 tackles for loss and five sacks in 2017. The 6-4, 300-pounder uses his hands decently well and is powerful through the line of scrimmage. His motor can be inconsistent, and he's not the most efficient with his hand work. A good but not great athlete, Simmons projects in the first or early second round and should have a long, productive career.) (12-31-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/outback-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-mississippi-state-vs-iowa-bowl-game/
The Draft Prospects the NFL Is Watching This Bowl Season (Mississippi State: The Bulldogs have two first-round caliber defensive linemen in DE Montez Sweat and DT Jeffrey Simmons, but both have character concerns. Sweat is the kind of lanky, flexible edge-bender that is always in demand. Simmons has outstanding athleticism for a 300-pounder. Along with masterful hand use, he is often unblockable.) (12-27-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/27/2019-nfl-draft-bowl-season
NFL Draft 2019 Position Primers: Quinnen Williams Leads Interior Defensive Linemen (JEFFERY SIMMONS, MISSISSIPPI STATE: Simmons is one of the more polished line products available. He’s useful with his hands and a true three-down tackle, able to collapse the pocket and push the rush into the face of the quarterback. His 15.5 tackles for loss are a large reason why Mississippi State ranked No. 1 in the nation in scoring defense. There are character concerns that could hurt his stock. Don’t be surprised if a team snags him with a top-15 pick.) (12-14-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/nfl-draft-2019-position-primer-top-interior-defensive-linemen
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 2.0: Herbert Moves Into Top 10, Uptick in Offense in Latest Rankings (6. JEFFREY SIMMONS, DT, MISSISSIPPI STATE (Height: 6' 3" | Weight: 300 pounds): Simmons’s assault of a woman when he was in high school was caught on video, and will be a big part of his story in the spring. The other side of it? The staff in Starkville swears by him, and he has become an elite player.) (12-14-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
2019 NFL Draft: Strengths of all prospects in top 32 (19. Jeffrey Simmons, DT, Mississippi State - Strengths: Pass-rushing moves, strength, length, athleticism) (12-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-strengths-of-all-prospects-currently-in-top-32/
Quinnen Williams – the highest-graded FBS player – highlights PFF's All-SEC selections (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR - First Team: Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State - Simmons had yet another dominant season for the Bulldogs, recorded 27 total pressures and 30 defensive stops. He missed just two tackles on 46 total attempts.) (12-3-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-quinnen-williams-2018-all-sec-selections
2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 13 (Up - Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State: The Egg Bowl was probably the final game for Simmons, and he went out in style. In the first quarter, Simmons chased down quarterback Jordan Ta'amu, who had scrambled out of the pocket. Simmons ripped Ta'amu to the ground while punching out the ball, which the Bulldogs recovered to set up their offense for easy points. Early in the fourth quarter, Simmons used a swim move to get free of the right guard and then closed on the quarterback with a burst to get a sack. Simmons recorded four tackles with two for a loss, one sack, one forced fumble and a pass batted in the Egg Bowl. He dominated the Ole Miss offensive line, which was incapable of blocking him. Simmons has been one of the best tackles in the SEC in 2018 and is among the conference's leaders in tackles. Considering the SEC's other star tackles like Alabama's Quinnen Williams, Auburn's Derrick Brown, Alabama's Raekwon Davis, and a good pair at LSU, that is really saying something for Simmons. He is quick at the point of attack with a fast first-step and impressive athleticism. Simmons also possesses functional strength and holds his ground as a run defender. In the 2019 NFL Draft, he could be worthy of a top-20 pick.) (11-27-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_13.php
NCAA Week 13 – Team of the Week (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR - Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State (Week 13 Grade: 93.8): Simmons (and the entire Bulldogs team) cruised past their rival Ole Miss in the Egg Bowl on Thanksgiving night as Simmons brought in five total QB pressures (1 sack, 4 hurries), two total defensive stops, a forced fumble, a batted pass and did not miss a single tackle on the evening.) (11-25-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-ncaa-week-13-team-of-the-week
Ole Miss-Mississippi State: Top 2019 NFL draft prospects to watch for (Jeffery Simmons is one of college football’s most disruptive defensive lineman in 2018. Despite drawing double teams play after play, still finds ways to make his way into backfields. At 6-foot-3 and 301 pounds, Simmons combines natural athletic ability with power and quickness that allows him to penetrate gaps or take on blockers. He plays light on his feet and moves very fluidly. Has impressive range against the run and can control opposing lineman with his hand usage. Flashes explosive pass rush ability as he can rip, dip or use a hump move to cleanly beat offensive linemen. He shows the ability to get down the line quickly and suddenly sheds blocks to make play on ball carriers coming through the hole. Simmons profiles best as a 3-technique in the NFL.) (11-22-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/11/22/ole-miss-mississippi-state-top-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-for/
Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Jeffery Simmons, DT, MIssissippi State: “He is a strong kid. He is really hard to move and he plays with great leverage and power. He is really a good technician, great with his hands. He can play on all three downs. He is so powerful he can disrupt the inside of the pocket, which right now, is even more important than bringing heat off the edge because you aren’t giving guys room to step up, especially undersized guys like Drew Brees. If you pressure Brees from the edge, he can just slide up into the pocket and beat you, whereas this kid can wreak havoc on the offensive line. He has an off field thing concern too [Simmons pleaded no contest to simple assault in 2016 after striking a woman several times during a fight]. If he didn’t have that, he is a top-10 pick all day long.”) (11-21-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 1.0: Nick Bosa No. 1, Justin Herbert Top QB at No. 13 (8. JEFFREY SIMMONS, DT, MISSISSIPPI STATE: His background will be a topic of discussion in February and March; as a high schooler he pleaded no contest to simple assault after striking a woman several times during a fight. Conversely, those in Starkville have vouched to NFL teams for the kind of person Simmons has been over his three years on campus. On the field, he’s capable of ruining games from the interior.) (11-15-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/15/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (7. Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State.: Simmons had six tackles with two for a loss against Alabama. Taking on Texas A&M, he collected three tackles. Previously, Simmons turned in an excellent game against LSU, making plays in the ground game and getting pass pressure. Earlier in the year, Simmons recorded five tackles with one for a loss against Auburn. He has 48 tackles with 11.5 tackles for a loss and two passes batted on the season.) (11-13-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama's Quinnen Williams rising but not (yet) No. 1 (11. Simmons: An easy mover with grown-man strength, Simmons would compete for top billing among defensive linemen in most drafts and the fact that he falls just outside of the top 10 is a reflection of this year's extraordinary talent at the position, as well as the fact that he does come with some off-field concerns. Perhaps due to the fact that his teammate, Montez Sweat (14th overall on this board) is beating him to the punch, Simmons does not yet have any sacks in 2018, a concern given that he did not record any as a freshman, either, prior to his breakout five sack sophomore campaign.) (11-8-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-s-quinnen-williams-rising-but-not-yet-no-1-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (4. Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State. (Previously: 4 Avg. 3.8 per 11): Simmons made two tackles against Louisiana Tech. Taking on Texas A&M, he collected three tackles. Previously, Simmons had an excellent game against LSU, making plays in the ground game and getting pass pressure. Earlier in the year, Simmons recorded five tackles with one for a loss against Auburn. He has 42 tackles with 9.5 tackles for a loss and two passes batted on the season.) (11-7-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama vs. LSU highlight must-see Week 10 matchups: (11. Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State, Jr: An easy mover with grown-man strength, Simmons would compete for top billing among defensive linemen in most drafts and the fact that he falls just outside of the top 10 is a reflection of this year’s extraordinary talent at the position, as well as the fact that he does come with some off-field concerns. Perhaps due to the fact that his teammate, Montez Sweat (14th overall on this board) is beating him to the punch, Simmons does not yet have any sacks in 2018, a concern given that he did not record any as a freshman, either, prior to his breakout five sack sophomore campaign.) (11-2-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-vs-lsu-highlight-must-see-week-10-matchups-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (4. Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State. (Previously: 4 Avg. 3.8 per 10): Taking on Texas A&M, Simmons had three tackles. Previously, he had an excellent game against LSU, making plays in the ground game and getting pass pressure. Earlier in the year, Simmons recorded five tackles with one for a loss against Auburn. He has 39 tackles with 9.5 tackles for a loss and two passes batted on the season.) (10-31-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Surprising QB class shakes up the rankings (11. Simmons (2018: 36 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, zero sacks (seven games)): An easy mover with grown-man strength, Simmons would compete for top billing among defensive linemen in most drafts and the fact that he falls just outside of the top 10 is a reflection of this year’s extraordinary talent at the position, as well as the fact that he does come with some off-field concerns. Perhaps due to the fact that his teammate, Montez Sweat (14th overall on this board) is beating him to the punch, Simmons does not yet have any sacks in 2018, a concern given that he did not record any as a freshman, either, prior to his breakout five sack sophomore campaign.) (10-26-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-surprising-qb-class-shakes-up-the-rankings-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (4. Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State: Simmons had an excellent game against LSU, making plays in the ground game and getting pass pressure. Previously, Simmons recorded five tackles with one for a loss against Auburn. He has 36 tackles with 9.5 tackles for a loss and two passes batted on the season.) (10-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Rankings 3.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season (15. Simmons: Simmons can take over a game with his combination of quickness, agility and power. However, his 2016 arrest -- which stemmed from a highly publicized video of him getting into a physical altercation with a woman -- will loom large in his evaluation. -- DJ) (10-23-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000977769/article/rankings-30-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season
2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 8 (Jeff Simmons, DT, Mississippi State: Simmons was one of the few Bulldogs who was impressive against LSU. Throughout the night, Simmons got the better of the Tigers' offensive line, beating both the guard and center, along with some double teams. In the second quarter, Simmons ran over the LSU center, knocking him flat on his back before getting in on a sack of Joe Burrow. Shortly later, Simmons bounced off the center and right guard to get a tackle for a loss. It was a superb play by Simmons to use his power to shed both blockers. Shortly later, Simmons burst into the backfield again to start another tackle for a loss. He continued to dominate at the point of attack in the second half, shutting down some interior runs at the line of scrimmage. The LSU game was an excellent performance that displayed his strength, speed, athleticism, and strong lateral anchor. Simmons is a special player who is worthy of going as top-16 pick. In your average draft class, he would be the best defensive tackle, and maybe the top defensive lineman, but in the loaded 2019 class, there could be a few who go ahead of him.) (10-23-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_08.php
2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 8 (7. JEFFERY SIMMONS, MISSISSIPPI STATE – INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN (Week 3 Draft Board rank: 3rd (-4)): Simmons has pulled down 16 defensive stops and 13 total QB pressures this season.) (10-22-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2019-nfl-draft-board-32-prospects-week-8
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: ACC, SEC defenders rising as rivalry games begin (11. Simmons ((2018: 26 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, zero sacks (six games)): Don't blame Simmons for the Bulldogs' surprising 28-7 thumping at the hands of Kentucky in Week Four as he recorded three tackles for loss. An easy mover with grown-man strength, Simmons would compete for top billing among defensive linemen in most drafts. Simmons does come with some off-field concerns that scouts will need to investigate but he is a top 10 talent who should excel in 2018 with fellow NFL prospect Sweat (No. 17 overall on this board) also drawing attention from would-be blockers. While Sweat might produce the flashier numbers, Simmons could be key this week if the Bulldogs are going to be able to slow down a dominant LSU rushing attack.) (10-18-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-acc-sec-defenders-rising-as-rivalry-games-begin-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (4. Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State. (Previously: 4 Avg. 3.8 per 8): Mississippi State had a bye last week. Previously, Simmons recorded five tackles with one for a loss against Auburn. He has 26 tackles and 8.5 tackles for a loss and two passes batted on the season.) (10-17-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board - Oregon's Justin Herbert to be tested by gifted UW DBs (11. Simmons (2018: 26 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, zero sacks (six games)): Don't blame Simmons for the Bulldogs' surprising 28-7 thumping at the hands of Kentucky in Week Four as he recorded three tackles for loss. An easy mover with grown-man strength, Simmons would compete for top billing among defensive linemen in most drafts. Simmons does come with some off-field concerns that scouts will need to investigate but he is a top 10 talent who should excel in 2018 with fellow NFL prospect Montez Sweat (No. 19 overall on this board) also drawing attention from would-be blockers.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-oregon-s-justin-herbert-to-be-tested-by-gifted-uw-dbs-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (17. Jeffrey Simmons, DT, Mississippi State: Simmons used a flashy swim move to hit an Auburn ball-carrier behind the line in the third quarter, and generated a pressure on the next play with the same move. Other than that, he wasn't very impactful against the Tigers. He's still a crafty interior-rusher, but needs to play lower and with more strength.) (10-10-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-lsu-cornerback-greedy-williams-nearing-top-of-the-list/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (4. Simmons: Simmons recorded five tackles with one for a loss against Auburn. He has 26 tackles and 8.5 tackles for a loss and two passes batted on the season.) (10-10-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
NFL Prospect Matchups: Auburn vs. Miss State (I’ve written about Jeffery Simmons numerous times and he grades as a top-40 pick on the field, but off-field red flags will have to be sorted out by teams once he enters the draft.) (10-5-18): http://draftanalyst.com/nfl-prospect-matchups-auburn-vs-miss-state
2018 NFL Draft Big Board - New duo boost already dominant defensive line class (12. Simmons (2018: 21 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss (four games)): Don't blame Simmons for the Bulldogs' surprising 28-7 thumping at the hands of Kentucky in Week Four as he recorded three tackles for loss. An easy mover with grown-man strength, Simmons would compete for top billing among defensive linemen in most drafts. Simmons does come with some off-field concerns that scouts will need to investigate but he is a top 10 talent who should excel in 2018 with fellow NFL prospect Montez Sweat (No. 26 overall on this board) also drawing attention from would-be blockers.) (10-4-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2018-nfl-draft-big-board-new-duo-boost-already-dominant-defensive-line-class-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (17. Jeffrey Simmons, DT, Mississippi State: Simmons wasn't a liability in the Bulldogs' loss to Florida, but he wasn't able to manufacture the consistent pressure I'm used to seeing from him. His hands are always active, and he can push offensive linemen back, but, as evidenced against the Gators, sometimes his hand work isn't very efficient. While I'd rather see a defensive lineman frequently deploy his hands than one who simply engages then is done with his pass rush, a pass-rushing move can't take three or four seconds to get that defensive front player to the quarterback. Simmons, who's 6-4, can play high too, which makes his midsection a huge target. I'm still a big fan. He was just off his game against Florida.) (10-3-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-nc-states-kelvin-harmon-joins-pack-of-receivers-in-top-20/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (5. Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State. (Previously: 3 Avg. 3.7 per 6): Simmons recorded four tackles against Florida. He has 21 tackles and 7.5 tackles for a loss on the season.) (10-3-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (14. Jeffrey Simmons, DT, Mississippi State: Simmons flashed his violent swim move and won with powerful bull rushes a few times. But he was too often caught hand fighting at the point of attack without getting upfield and got stuck on other blocks as Kentucky gashed Mississippi State on the ground for 229 yards on 47 carries. Not a bad outing for Simmons, who finished with six tackles, yet not a game that warranted him to move up the rankings.) (9-25-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-d-k-metcalf-climbs-into-top-20-after-another-game-with-big-plays/
6 potential Lions prospects to watch in college football Week 4 (Jeffery Simmons, DL, Mississippi State: Simmons plays with his hair on fire and regularly makes plays in the opposing backfield. He plays an attacking, up the field style, but he is big enough to hold up at the line of scrimmage, and he wins reps inside because of his technical prowess and brute power. Questions would come about his fit in head coach Matt Patricia’s scheme, but those questions are mitigated by Simmons’ ability to anchor and dominate his gap which he shows regularly. Simmons is capable of making plays and bringing a powerful presence to the interior of a defensive line, and he would be a fantastic addition to a unit needing all of the above.) (9-22-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/22/6-potential-lions-prospects-to-watch-in-college-football-week-4/
Draft Prospect rankings: Alabama's next elite safety (14. Jeffrey Simmons, DT, Mississippi State: Simmons can get stuck on blocks a little too long for my liking, and he can play high, but overall, he looks like a well-rounded defensive tackle who can win with pass-rushing moves and sheer power. Early in the game against Louisiana, he showed off a nice anchor, slide, and shed to make a tackle at the line of scrimmage against the run. The swim move and bull rush were on display too. He's a fun player to watch.) (9-19-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-alabamas-deionte-thompson-emerging-as-elite-safety-prospect/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (3. Jeffrey Simmons: Simmons had three tackles with .5 for a loss against Louisiana-Lafayette. He has 11 tackles and 5.5 tackles for a loss on the season. Recently in the Hot Press, we reported how one team's scout said they were going to fight for Simmons in pre-draft meetings after doing their research into the background of Simmons. They said that the staff at Mississippi State and contacts at his hometown town speak highly of Simmons. He will have a lot of scrutiny because of a tape of him in a street fight, but there is no doubt that Simmons is a top-20 talent for the NFL. If team evaluators are comfortable with Simmons off the field, that could send his stock soaring high into the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. ) (9-19-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3 (3. JEFFERY SIMMONS, MISSISSIPPI STATE – INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN: The best interior disruptor in the nation, Simmons has the best combination of pass-rushing and run-stopping when it comes to interior defensive linemen. He’s off to a strong start with a 92.1 overall grade.) (9-18-18): PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3
2019 NFL Draft Stock (Up - Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State: Last week in the Hot Press, we reported how one team's scout said they were going to fight for Simmons in pre-draft meetings after doing their research into the background of Simmons. They said that the staff at Mississippi State and contacts at his hometown town speak highly of Simmons. He will face a lot of scrutiny because of a tape of him in a street fight, but there is no doubt that Simmons is a top-20 talent for the NFL. If team evaluators are comfortable with Simmons off the field, that could send his stock soaring high into the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft.) (9-18-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_03.php
The five best defensive players in college football through Week 3 (5. DI JEFFERY SIMMONS, MISSISSIPPI STATE 92.1: Our No. 1 interior defensive line prospect for the NFL draft, Simmons is off to a strong start in all phases. He ranks fourth in the nation against the run at 91.3 as he’s been unblockable at the point of attack and he’s finished plays with seven stops. As a pass-rusher, he has two QB hits and five hurries on 76 rushes but he also has seven other quick wins that didn’t get registered as pressures. Overall, Simmons has rarely been blocked through three games.) (9-17-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-college-the-five-best-defensive-players-in-football-week-3
Some Sources Plan to Fight for Simmons (9-13-18): http://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/290
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Clemson's Dexter Lawrence proving to be more than space-eater (12. Jeffrey Simmons, DT, Mississippi State: Simmons was essentially unblockable against Kansas State. He finished the day with four tackles and two tackles for loss, and he generated repeated pressure on both Wildcat quarterbacks all afternoon. His hips aren't as fluid as Dre'Mont Jones, but he's as well-versed with his pass-rush moves. Simmons leans on his bull rush and showed off a slippery swim move to disrupt the backfield on a few occasions. Against the run, he anchored well and displayed the ability to shed against a double team.) (9-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-clemsons-dexter-lawrence-proving-to-be-more-than-space-eater/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (3. Jeff Simmons, DT, Mississippi State.: Versus Kansas State, Simmons had four tackles and two for a loss with some pressures in the pass rush. He has 5.5 tackles for a loss and eight tackles on the season.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: More D-linemen added after wowing in Week One (13. Simmons: Simmons does not receive as much national attention as some of the other top defensive linemen on this board but he is every bit as gifted, consistently beating opponents with quickness and power over the past two seasons. Simmons does come with some off-field concerns that scouts will need to investigate but he is a top 10 talent who should excel in 2018 with fellow NFL prospect Montez Sweat also drawing attention from would-be blockers. Sweat, a Michigan State transfer, just missed the cut at No. 35 overall.) (9-6-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-more-d-linemen-added-after-wowing-in-week-one-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (3. Jeff Simmons, DT, Mississippi State.: Simmons (6-4, 301) is extremely talented athletically and possesses a ton of upside. In 2017, he totaled 60 tackles with 12 tackles for a loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles and one pass batted. As a freshman, he had 40 tackles with two forced fumbles. While Simmons is a great athlete with a superb skill set, he comes with off-the-field baggage, including a video of him striking a woman with multiple punches in a street fight. Similar to Joe Mixon, that video could cause Simmons to slide in his draft class.) (8-30-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft prospect rankings -- top 5 at every position (1. Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State: Strengths – Perhaps the best interior pass-rusher in the draft, Simmons won 16.2 percent of his pass-rushes last season, best in the draft class among interior rushers with at least 250 rushes. Ranked second among returning interior defensive linemen with a 90.8 overall grade last season and ranked fourth with a 90.3 grade against the run. Room to improve in 2018 – Simmons has all the tools to dominate, both against the run and as a rusher, so it’s all about producing at a high level in all phases this season.) (8-14-18):https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-5-at-every-position
Who Are the Defensive Linemen Expected to Dominate the 2019 NFL Draft? (DT Jeffrey Simmons, junior, Mississippi State: The Bulldogs took a lot of criticism for sticking by Simmons through an ugly domestic incident during his senior year in high school. That, rightly, will merit a thorough investigation into Simmons’s past by NFL teams. In the three years since he arrived in Starkville, he’s become an All-SEC player and made the conference’s academic honor roll.) (7-12-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/07/12/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-linemen-nick-bosa-dexter-lawrence
18 for '18: College football's most freakish athletes (14. Simmons: The Bulldogs have one of the SEC's up-and-coming stars in Simmons, a former five-star recruit who flashed enough early signs of dominance to earn Freshman All-SEC honors in 2016. He's the guy you stop to watch in the weight room, bench-pressing 450 pounds and squatting 600 after just two years in the MSU strength program. He carries just 15 percent body fat at 300 pounds, has unreal quickness for an interior defensive lineman and can make shaking off a double-team block look easy.)(6-29-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000938992/article/18-for-18-college-footballs-most-freakish-athletes
NFL Draft Defender Ranks (5. Jeffery Simmons is a long, athletic interior lineman with pedigree (former five-star recruit) and production (First-Team all-SEC last year). If Simmons is to drop out of Round 1 next spring, it’ll probably have something to do with the video of him as a teenager repeatedly punching a woman on the ground who had been involved in an altercation with his sister. To be fair, Simmons has more than stayed on the straight-and-narrow at Mississippi State. He hasn’t gotten in trouble, he’s been lauded for his leadership, and he’s a member of the All-SEC honor roll. And there’s this: Simmons is the FBS returning leader among DTs with 41 QB pressures in 2017.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks
DT Jerry Tillery:
Scouting Reports:
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2019jtillery.php
Articles:
DJ's takeaways from scouting combine (Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame (No. 45 to Falcons): Tillery, who stands at 6-foot-6, wreaked havoc on opponents in 2018, accumulating eight sacks and 30 tackles. "To be as tall as he is and be able to change directions ... you can see the athleticism.") (3-4-19): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001019889/article/daniel-jeremiahs-day-1-nfl-scouting-combine-takeaways
Sunday's 2019 Combine winners: Interior defensive line (Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame: A bit under the radar still, Tillery should be getting more love than he is, especially after he put up a 1.69 10-yard-split — he and Williams were the only players with a sub-1.7 run. Drills looked easy too, something that’s not easy for a tall (6-6.5) player.) (3-3-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/sundays-2019-combine-winners-interior-defensive-line/
2019 NFL Scouting Combine: DL winners, losers from Sunday (Winners - Tillery posted a 4.93 40-yard dash, 32-inch vertical jump, 115-inch broad jump, 7.45 three-cone drill and 4.33 20-yard shuttle, which all ranked among the top-10 at his position. The former Notre Dame product was fluid and smooth in the on-field drills, which replicates what was displayed on his film, as he moves well for a player of his size (6-foot-6 and 295 pounds) with lateral quickness, hip snap and flexibility.) (3-3-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/03/03/2019-nfl-scouting-combine-defensive-line-winners-losers-quinnen-williams/
2019 NFL Combine Stock Report: Defensive Linemen (Up - Jerry Tillery interviewed well at the combine, so his stock was trending upward prior to his Sunday workout. Tillery did not disappoint on the field. The Notre Dame product ran a 4.93 40 with a 1.69 10-yard split.) (3-3-19): http://walterfootball.com/combine2019stockDL.php
Combine takeaways: Big day for D-linemen (Notre Dame's Jerry Tillery is a physical specimen. After delivering one of the best 40 times of the day at 4.93, he looked great running through drills, showing his smoothness on the four-bag and the ability to change direction and exhibit excellent burst throughout the day. Could be a great find at the end of Round 1.) (3-3-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-results-montez-sweat-quinnen-williams-devin-white-josh-allen-dominate/
Who and what to watch at the 2019 NFL Combine: Interior defensive line (Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame (Suggested by: Jeff Risdon and Sonja Greenfield): Size, power, length, Tillery uses all of these measurables to put himself in the right position to gain an advantage. Perfectly suited for a 2-gapping scheme, if Tillery falls, similar to what happened with Robinson in 2016, his value may be too good to let his slide continue. His style of play doesn’t always translate to success at the Combine, but if he can show quickness off the snap, he should see a bump to his stock.) (2-25-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/02/25/who-what-watch-2019-nfl-combine-interior-defensive-line/
Jerry Tillery: 2019 NFL Draft Film Room (1-31-19): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-film-room-jerry-tillery
Cotton Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Clemson vs. Notre Dame bowl game (Jerry Tillery, DT: Tillery uses his long arms to keep offensive linemen from getting underneath him, a vital skill for him at 6-foot-7 and around 310 pounds. His tackles were way down this year as he saw considerably more double teams than in 2017, but his sack total went from 4.5 a season ago to seven in 2018, and he forced two fumbles. Tillery's arms are like lead pipes attached to his towering frame, and he has serious burst off the snap, a combination that leads to him disrupting the backfield relatively often. He can be neutralized at times because he obviously plays higher than most defensive tackles, but he's a high-motor player you want on your defensive line.) (12-29-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/cotton-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-clemson-vs-notre-dame-bowl-game/
Prospect Rankings – top 2019 NFL Draft prospects in the College Football Playoff (6. JERRY TILLERY, NOTRE DAME – DI: Trailing only two players at the position, Tillery was a dominant force against the pass from the interior of the Notre Dame defensive line, consistently disrupting opposing offenses with an array of pass-rushing moves. In total, his 44 QB pressures rank third at the position nationally.) (12-22-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-top-50-prospects-in-college-football-playoff
A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (For Notre Dame, senior defensive lineman Jerry Tillery (6 feet 7 inches, 305 pounds) broke out this season with seven sacks and will have the length to intrigue a team losing Ezekiel Ansah, but he'll likely go high in the draft.) (12-15-18): https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html
2019 NFL Draft: Strengths of all prospects in top 32 (17. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame - Strengths: Heavy hands, burst, motor, power) (12-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-strengths-of-all-prospects-currently-in-top-32/
SI's 2018 College Football All-America Team (First Team Defense - DL: Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame - The disruptive man in the middle for the Irish defense has made life easy for first-year coordinator Clark Lea, adding three forced fumbles and a blocked kick to his 8.0 sacks.) (12-5-18): https://www.si.com/college-football/2018/12/05/postseason-all-america-team-roster-kyler-murray
Top 25 Observations – A salute to the senior class (3. NOTRE DAME - LB Te’von Coney (91.3) & DI Jerry Tillery (89.4): Earlier this week, PFF’s Mike Renner highlighted some names to know for the upcoming draft, which included the Fighting Irish’s senior leaders in Coney and Tillery. Both have improved their grades each season and, like Alabama’s senior duo above, are saving their best for last. Coney is currently the second-highest graded linebacker and Tillery the 10th-highest graded interior defender.) (11-23-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-top-25-observations-week-13
Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Jerry Tillery, DL, Notre Dame: “He’s really, really talented. For a guy his size [6' 7"] he’s really quick off the ball. He’s explosive, he can rush the passer. Teams are really going to get enamored with his size and length, and his ability to rush the quarterback. Most guys his size are run down players and he can affect the quarterback. He is a really good player. He’s a rising player with a lot of upside. His thing is, some scouts have concerns about the kid because he has a lot of interests outside football. They are going to be some people questioning how much dog he's got in him. You want to find defensive linemen who are just nasty, and I don't know if he is that guy. He could go anywhere from first to third round.”) (11-21-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports
2019 NFL Draft names to know (DT JERRY TILLERY – NOTRE DAME (SR.): Tillery flashed big-time potential at times throughout his career, but never quite put it all together until this season. Listed at 6-foot-7, 305 pounds, Tillery’s length and strength are elite. He already knows how to utilize his long limbs with an array of pass-rushing moves. His 90.9 pass-rushing grade is third best among interior defensive linemen in the country while his 37 total pressures are the second most.) (11-19-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2019-names-to-know-after-week-12
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (15. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Tillery was held without a tackle in Notre Dame's win over Florida State, a little surprising given how bad the Seminoles offensive line has been this season. I've still been very impressed with Tillery's motor and violent hand use as a taller defensive tackle this year.) (11-14-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-zach-allen-has-the-power-refined-game-to-be-star-defensive-lineman/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (25. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Tillery did not record any stats in Notre Dame's blowout of Florida State. Previously, Tillery totaled three tackles versus Northwestern. Earlier in the season, he made two tackles against Pittsburgh. Against Stanford, Tillery had one of the best games of the year from any player in college football, as he dominated the Cardinal with four sacks, six tackles and a forced fumble. Tillery was excellent in the 2018 season opener, notching a sack against Michigan and causing a ton of disruption. He has 28 tackles with seven sacks, 8.5 tackles for a loss and three forced fumbles on the year. In previous seasons, Notre Dame played Tillery at nose tackle, but moving him to three-technique looks like a great decision, as Tillery has been one of the best pass-rushers in college football during 2018.) (11-13-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama's Quinnen Williams rising but not (yet) No. 1 (16. Tillery: Tillery was the most impressive player I saw in Week Five, dominating a Stanford offensive line well known for producing NFL blockers to the tune of four sacks, helping the Irish win 38-17 in a battle of top 10 ranked opponents. A Louisiana native with a combination of size, power and tenacity similar to former Notre Dame (and current Pittsburgh Steelers) standout Stephon Tuitt, Tillery is sure to draw the interest of 4-3 and 3-4 base NFL teams, alike.) (11-8-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-s-quinnen-williams-rising-but-not-yet-no-1-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Quinnen Williams closing in on Ed Oliver as top DT prospect (12. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame
Classic individual performance that was much better than the stat sheet would indicate. Tillery had three tackles against Northwestern. That was it. But he looked as explosive as I've seen him all season when firing off the snap, and utilized quick, powerful pass-rushing moves to disrupt the Wildcats' backfield for a good portion of the game. He's a relatively polished, high motor defensive tackle.) (11-7-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-quinnen-williams-closing-in-on-ed-oliver-as-top-dt-prospect/
2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 10 (Down - Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Tillery had a quiet game against Northwestern. While he saw some extra attention, he also did nothing in some single-block opportunities against players who aren't even close to being NFL prospects. At the start of the year, Tillery played like his hair was on fire. He dominated at the point of attack with speed and physicality. Following that great start, Tillery has cooled down. His motor has slowed, and he does not seem to have the same sense of urgency. It gives the appearance that he could be protecting himself and trying not to get hurt to protect his NFL status. Tillery has the reputation of not being a great guy or a good teammate, so if he adds another negative attribute as a player who turns it on and off, that could really hurt his chances of being a first-round pick in a loaded class of defensive line talent.) (11-5-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_10.php
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama vs. LSU highlight must-see Week 10 matchups: (16. Jerry Tillery, DL, Notre Dame, Sr: Tillery was the most impressive player I saw in Week Five, dominating a Stanford offensive line well known for producing NFL blockers to the tune of four sacks, helping the Irish win 38-17 in a battle of top 10 ranked opponents. A Louisiana native with a combination of size, power and tenacity similar to former Notre Dame (and current Pittsburgh Steelers) standout Stephon Tuitt, Tillery is sure to draw the interest of 4-3 and 3-4 base NFL teams, alike.) (11-2-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-vs-lsu-highlight-must-see-week-10-matchups-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 Draft Prospect Rankings: WRs Harmon, Johnson can do it all (12. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: I never glean too much from defensive line prospects when they face a triple-option team like Navy, because they're going to see essentially the exact opposite of that offense at the NFL level. Tillery registered four tackles in the Fighting Irish's win Saturday. ) (10-31-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-wrs-kelvin-harmon-anthony-johnson-put-their-complete-games-on-display/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (22. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame. (Previously: 22 Avg. 33.1 per 10): Tillery totaled four tackles Navy. Previously, he made two tackles against Pittsburgh. Against Stanford, Tillery had one of the best games of the year from any player in college football, as he dominated the Cardinal with four sacks, six tackles and a forced fumble. Tillery was excellent in the 2018 season opener, notching a sack against Michigan and causing a ton of disruption. He has 25 tackles with seven sacks and three forced fumbles on the year. In previous seasons, Notre Dame played Tillery at nose tackle, but moving him to three-technique looks like a great decision, as Tillery has been one of the best pass-rushers in college football during 2018.) (10-31-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Surprising QB class shakes up the rankings (16. Tillery (2018: 20 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 6.0 sacks (seven games)): Tillery was the most impressive player I saw in Week Five, dominating a Stanford offensive line well known for producing NFL blockers to the tune of four sacks, helping the Irish win 38-17 in a battle of top 10 ranked opponents. A Louisiana native with a combination of size, power and tenacity similar to former Notre Dame (and current Pittsburgh Steelers) standout Stephon Tuitt, Tillery is sure to draw the interest of 4-3 and 3-4 base NFL teams, alike.) (10-26-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-surprising-qb-class-shakes-up-the-rankings-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Washington's Ben Burr-Kirven the new-age linebacker prototype (12. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: The towering defensive tackle got a rest week before Notre Dame faces Navy Saturday. He probably has the heaviest hands among defensive linemen in the country and moves fluidly for a 6-foot-7, 305-pound interior defender.) (10-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-washingtons-ben-burr-kirven-the-new-age-linebacker-prototype/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (22. Tillery: Notre Dame had a bye last week. In his last action, Tillery had two tackles against Pittsburgh. Against Stanford, he had one of the best games of the year from any player in college football, as he dominated the Cardinal with four sacks, six tackles and a forced fumble. Tillery was excellent in the 2018 season opener, notching a sack against Michigan and causing a ton of disruption. He has 21 tackles with seven sacks and three forced fumbles on the year. In previous seasons, Notre Dame played Tillery at nose tackle, but moving him to three-technique looks like a great decision, as Tillery has been one of the best pass-rushers in college football during 2018.) (10-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 8 (26. JERRY TILLERY, NOTRE DAME – INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN
(Week 3 Draft Board rank: 30th (+4)): Tillery is second among all defensive interior players with his 26 total QB pressures. He’s recorded seven sacks and four QB hits with an additional 15 hurries.) (10-22-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2019-nfl-draft-board-32-prospects-week-8
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Add Miami's Gerald Willis to group of premier DT prospects (11. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Every week I watch Tillery I'm more impressed with his burst off the snap and that he's not constantly out-leveraged by shorter offensive linemen. He didn't have his best game against Pittsburgh but still created backfield disruption -- particularly against the run -- and exploded through a few gaps as a pass-rusher with a powerful swipe move.) (10-19-18):https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-add-miamis-gerald-willis-to-group-of-premier-dt-prospects/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: ACC, SEC defenders rising as rivalry games begin (16. Tillery ((2018: 20 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 6.0 sacks (seven games)): Tillery was the most impressive player I saw in Week Five, dominating a Stanford offensive line well known for producing NFL blockers to the tune of four sacks, helping the Irish win 38-17 in a battle of top 10 ranked opponents. A Louisiana native with a combination of size, power and tenacity similar to former Notre Dame (and current Pittsburgh Steelers) standout Stephon Tuitt, Tillery is sure to draw the interest of 4-3 and 3-4 base NFL teams, alike.) (10-18-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-acc-sec-defenders-rising-as-rivalry-games-begin-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (23. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame. (Previously: 24 Avg. 35.9 per 8): Versus Pittsburgh, Tillery had two tackles. Tillery was excellent in the 2018 season opener, notching a sack against Michigan and causing a ton of disruption. Against Stanford, Tillery had one of the best games of the year from any player in college football, as he dominated the Cardinal with four sacks, six tackles and a forced fumble. He has 21 tackles with seven sacks and three forced fumbles on the year. In previous seasons, Notre Dame played Tillery at nose tackle, but moving him to three-technique looks like a great decision, as Tillery has been one of the best pass-rushers in college football during 2018.) (10-17-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board - Oregon's Justin Herbert to be tested by gifted UW DBs (17. Tillery (2018: 18 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 6.0 sacks (six games)): Tillery was the most impressive player I saw in Week Five, dominating a Stanford offensive line well known for producing NFL blockers to the tune of four sacks, helping the Irish win 38-17 in a battle of top 10 ranked opponents. A Louisiana native with a combination of size, power and tenacity similar to former Notre Dame (and current Pittsburgh Steelers) standout Stephon Tuitt, Tillery is sure to draw the interest of 4-3 and 3-4 base NFL teams, alike.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-oregon-s-justin-herbert-to-be-tested-by-gifted-uw-dbs-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (11. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Virginia Tech did an admirable job against Tillery, but the tall, powerful defensive tackle still disrupted a handful of plays with sheer strength and his violent swipe move en route to the quarterback. He and Jeffrey Simmons are similar players but I don't notice Tillery losing the leverage battle as often as Simmons does. I just hope his defensive coordinator keeps him on the inside in the NFL and not at a two-gapping five technique position.) (10-10-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-lsu-cornerback-greedy-williams-nearing-top-of-the-list/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (24. Tillery: Tillery was excellent in the 2018 season opener, notching a sack against Michigan and causing a ton of disruption. Against Stanford, Tillery had one of the best games of the year from any player in college football, as he dominated the Cardinal with four sacks, six tackles and a forced fumble. He has 19 tackles with seven sacks and three forced fumbles on the year. In previous seasons, Notre Dame played Tillery at nose tackle, but moving him to three-technique looks like a great decision, as Tillery has been one of the best pass-rushers in college football during 2018.) (10-10-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Stock - Week 6 (Up - Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Already the 2019 NFL Draft is known to be a class that is going to be loaded with good defensive line talent. A lot of attention gets paid to prospects like Ed Oliver, Nick Bosa, Derrick Brown, Raekwon Davis and the Clemson defensive line; however, Tillery is having a great season and might be the top defensive tackle in the draft in an average year. A week ago against Stanford, Tillery totaled six tackles with four tackles for a loss, four sacks and a forced fumble. That tied him for the lead in the nation with seven sacks through five games. Tillery continued his strong play with a solid game against Virginia Tech. This season, Tillery has showed excellent strength to shed blocks, technique to get under the pads of offensive linemen, power to bull rush, and speed to close on the quarterback. He is playing like a first-round pick in 2019's loaded defensive line class.) (10-9-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_06.php
Five possible Lions draft prospects: Week 6 (Jerry Tillery, DL, Notre Dame (No. 99) (No. 6 Notre Dame vs. No. 24 Virginia Tech, 8 p.m., ESPN): The Notre Dame defense has played a key role in the team's 5-0 start, and the success begins with Tillery up front. After racking up an impressive 9.5 sacks last season, Tillery is already up to 6.0 this year. That's extraordinary pass-rush production for a 300-plus pounder. But he's far from just a pass-rusher. He does a nice job clogging up the run lanes with his long arms, which make him an appealing fit for the Lions' defensive scheme.) (10-5-18):https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/10/05/five-possible-detroit-lions-draft-prospects-week-6/1531090002/
2018 NFL Draft Big Board - New duo boost already dominant defensive line class (24. Tillery (2018: 13 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 6.0 sacks (five games)): Tillery was the most impressive player I saw in Week Five, dominating a Stanford offensive line well known for producing NFL blockers to the tune of four sacks, helping the Irish win 38-17 in a battle of top 10 ranked opponents. A Louisiana native with a combination of size, power and tenacity similar to former Notre Dame (and current Pittsburgh Steelers) standout Stephon Tuitt, Tillery is sure to draw the interest of 4-3 and 3-4 base NFL teams, alike.) (10-4-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2018-nfl-draft-big-board-new-duo-boost-already-dominant-defensive-line-class-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (12. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Tillery has the most powerful punch among interior defensive linemen in the country, and it worked wonders against a large, powerful Stanford offensive line in Notre Dame's win over the Cardinal. Tillery not only uses his upper-body strength to push back guards with a bull rush, but he understands how to counter off a it with a quick swipe move or a push-pull to get to the quarterback. Even times when he was seemingly blocked well, Tillery was able to disrupt the quarterback with his long arms. He's a unique defensive tackle at 6-foot-6 but is a splashy pass-rusher who holds up well against the run) (10-3-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-nc-states-kelvin-harmon-joins-pack-of-receivers-in-top-20/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (27. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame.) (10-3-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Week 5 National Team of the Week (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR - Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame (Week 5 Grade: 93.9): Tillery was unstoppable for the Fighting Irish on Saturday night. He racked up a forced fumble and had a whopping four sacks on Stanford QB K.J. Costello. Tillery also recorded 2 QB hits and one more hurry to give him seven total pressures from the defensive interior.) (10-2-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-5-team-of-the-week/
$.10 After NFL Week 4 (Notre Dame DL Jerry Tillery proved why he’s a top-50 overall prospect in the win. Tillery earned the national defensive player of the week for his 3-sack outing, a number which doesn’t truly demonstrate his disruptive impact on the game. For a taller player (he’s 6-7), Tillery doesn’t struggle with leverage going inside. That’s unusual. His ability to get narrow and clear his shoulders through the gap with a long stride that is exceptionally quick for a long-legged player. He has some Calais Campbell to his game, minus the Jaguars All-Pro’s brute strength. Tillery also destroyed Michigan earlier this season and has been one of the most impressive defensive prospects I’ve watched this season.) (10-2-18): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3072/$10-After-NFL-Week-4
NFLDraftScout.com Prospect Notebook: Week 6 (TILLERY ARTILERY: Arguably the most impressive performance of the week comes via Notre Dame defensive tackle Jerry Tillery (6-5, 306, 5.32, #99), who was downright dominating and unblockable during his four-sack performance in the win over Stanford. The senior returned to South Bend for his final year in hopes of honing his skill-set and development, in addition to addressing questions about his love for the game. Tillery is known to be a bit of a renaissance man, with various interests and worldly travels, creating some doubt about his passion for football among talent evaluators. The coaching staff has since put him in a tremendous position to succeed at the three-technique, after playing nose tackle during his first three seasons. He has responded by accounting for half of the team's sack total (six), while providing a steady force on the defensive front for the No. 6-ranked Fighting Irish. With his ability to rush the passer, Tillery is a mismatch one-on-one on the interior, which makes him a valuable commodity at the next level. He's currently on the outside looking in, but it wouldn't be surprising to see Tillery creep into the latter end of the first round if his stout play keeps up.) (10-1-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/nfldraftscout-com-prospect-notebook-week-6-FWQ5UHlVtUag3HSD3XXi2g/
Notre Dame DT Tillery, Ohio State QB Haskins among Week Five NFL draft risers (1. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame, 6-5, 306, 5.32, SR, # 99: The single most impressive performance I saw Saturday night came from Tillery, who dominated a Stanford offensive line used to bullying opponents, helping the Irish turn what was initially a very competitive game pitting two top 10 opponents into a 38-17 thumping by Notre Dame. Scouts, of course, are already well aware of Tillery, who entered the game ranked third among senior defensive tackles on NFLDraftScout.com's board but this was the type of breakthrough performance that talent evaluators had been waiting for from the undeniably gifted (but previously inconsistent) defender. An easy mover given his size with the length and strength to handle duties up and down the line of scrimmage, Tillery recorded six tackles overall, including an eye-popping four sacks Saturday night, nearly matching his previous best single-season total (4.5 sacks last year) in just one game and now giving him seven for the year.) (9-30-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/notre-dame-dt-tillery-ohio-state-qb-haskins-among-week-five-nfl-draft-risers-q0aIke-W4E6UhrJoo3HEfw/
5 prospects for Lions fans to watch in CFB Week 5 (Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Michigan fans know well what sort of havoc Tillery can wreak. At 6-7 and 305 pounds, he’s built similarly to All-Pro Calais Campbell. Unfortunately, he’s not as physically strong or crafty with his pass rush moves. Not yet. Tillery showed more patience against Wake Forest, negating one way teams have successfully neutralized him: using his quick first step and long gait against him. Stanford has a well-conceived offense and a nifty RB in Bryce Love who can make quick cuts and accelerate instantly away from him. Good test for a player most will project in Day Two of the ’19 NFL Draft.) (9-29-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/09/29/5-prospects-for-lions-fans-to-watch-in-cfb-week-5/
Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Top prospects to watch for the 2019 NFL draft (DT Jerry Gillett: Tillery brings a lot to his game that will catch NFL scouts’ attention. At 6-foot-7 and 305 pounds, Tillery’s hips are super fluid, with impeccable lateral agility, active hands, and long arms that he wins against more compact guards on a regular basis. Even given his height, Tillery doesn’t play that high. He’s fundamentally sound, stacking and shedding blocks against he run, and he covers ground quickly with long strides after he knifes through gaps to be a disruptive pass-rusher with an arsenal of counters.) (9-28-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/09/28/notre-dame-fighting-irish-top-prospects-to-watch-for-the-2019-nfl-draft/3/
Draft Prospect rankings: Alabama's next elite safety (18. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Through three games, Tillery has consistently utilized a heavy-handed club move and a nice push-pull-rip as a pass-rusher. He's tall, and not exactly the twitchiest athlete for the interior defensive line position, he has showcased a decently fast burst off the snap.) (9-19-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-alabamas-deionte-thompson-emerging-as-elite-safety-prospect/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (44. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame. (Previously: 44 Avg. 45 per 4)) (9-19-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3 (30. JERRY TILLERY, NOTRE DAME – INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN: Tillery has shown continued improvement at Notre Dame and his ability to get after the quarterback has put him on the radar over the last two seasons. This year, his 90.4 pass-rush grade is tied for first among interior defensive linemen and he has three sacks, one QB hit and six hurries on 119 rushes.) (9-18-18): PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Clemson's Dexter Lawrence proving to be more than space-eater (13. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: It was going to be difficult for Tillery to match his production from the Michigan game, but he pieced together a quality outing against a good Ball State team at home. Despite being 6-6, Tillery doesn't play particularly high, and he has powerful hands he uses well with swipe and club moves.) (9-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-clemsons-dexter-lawrence-proving-to-be-more-than-space-eater/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (44. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Stock (2019 NFL Draft Stock (Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame: Tillery had an impressive night with some big plays against Michigan. In the first quarter on a third-and-2, Tillery came up with a run stuff for no gain after fighting through a block. Early in the second quarter Tillery had an impressive rush to get his first sack of the season. He used strength to shed a guard and then took down Shea Patterson as he stepped up in the pocket. Late in the fourth quarter, Tillery came up with the play of the game, getting a rush up the middle before joining a teammate for a sack of Shea Patterson that caused him to drop the ball. Teammate Te'Von Coney picked up the fumble to clinch the win for Notre Dame. Throughout the night, Tillery was pushing through the Michigan interior line to get pressure and was stuffing runs at the point of attack. With multiple sacks and showing speed, power, length and size, Tillery really impressed. He could be a 4-3 defensive tackle or an end in a 3-4. This tape illustrated that Tillery has early-round potential for the 2019 NFL Draft. ) (9-5-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_01.php
Riser and Sliders - Week 1 (Jerry Tillery/DT/Notre Dame: There were any number of defenders from Notre Dame who could have been listed as risers after the unit's dominant performance over Michigan, but Tillery gets the nod. The athletic lineman was omnipresent all four quarters and finished the game with four tackles (two for loss) and a career-high two sacks and forced a fumble. He looked quick, explosive and was at times impossible to stop. In recent years, Notre Dame entered the season with highly rated defensive linemen who failed to live up to expectations. Tillery, who received second-round grades from scouts, looks poised to end that streak.) (9-4-18): http://draftanalyst.com/riser-sliders-week-1
PFF NCAA Week 1 – Team of the Week (INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN - Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame (Week 1 grade: 92.2): Tillery might have been the best player on the field against Michigan. Moving all across the line, he beat nearly every Wolverine offensive lineman at least once. He was very good in run defense, but it was his sack and two other hurries from an interior position that was particularly telling.) (9-2-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-1-team-of-the-week
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (44. Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame.) (8-30-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft: Notre Dame's defense has first-round caliber prospects at each level (Jerry Tillery, DL: It's always fun watching uniquely sized prospects make it work at their respective position. Tillery's one of those players at a nearly 6-7 and 305 pounds on the interior of Notre Dame's defensive line. Despite having the body type of a block-eating defensive end for a traditional 3-4 base, Tillery's hips are super fluid, and it's with impeccable lateral agility, active hands, and long arms that he wins against more compact guards on a regular basis. Even given his height, Tillery doesn't play that high. He's fundamentally sound stacking and shedding blocks against he run, and he covers ground quickly with long strides after he knifes through gaps to be a disruptive pass-rusher. I'd actually like to see Tillery dominate more often with his athletic gifts, because it's safe to assume professional inside blockers will be able to gain the leverage advantage on him more frequently than collegiate offensive linemen have thus far during his time with the Fighting Irish. Also, more weight and lower body strength would really round out his game. In 2017, Tillery had 56 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks. If he's gotten stronger, I expect a jump in production in 2018, which very well could lead to him being a first-round selection. ) (8-9-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-notre-dames-defense-has-first-round-caliber-prospects-at-each-level/
NFL Draft Defender Ranks (9. Jerry Tillery (6’6/306) is a long interior defender who posted nine TFL and 4.5 sacks last year as Notre Dame’s nose tackle. This year, he’ll kick to three-technique. Tillery could move up the board a bit, but only if he stays out of trouble (was sent home from the 2016 Fiesta Bowl) and keeps his head screwed on when playing (remember his brutal after-the-whistle penalties against USC in 2016 finale?) this fall. At least he’s publicly shown self-awareness since, admitting to having a big head earlier in his college career. HC Brian Kelly said this spring that Tillery has grown up. “He’s virtually unblockable at the three technique for us,” Kelly said of Tillery’s on-field game. “He’s a very difficult player to play.”) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks
2019 NFL Draft: An early introduction to nine of the potential top defensive linemen (Jerry Tillery, DL, Notre Dame
Experience: In 17 games in his first two years on the field for the Fighting Irish, he amassed 49 tackles and 5.5 tackles for loss with no sacks. Last season, He made 56 tackles, had nine tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and forced one fumble in 13 games. Strengths: Tall and long for the defensive tackle spot. Still growing into his frame. Could ultimately be a 6-5, 310-pounder. Light feet and smooth hips. Active hands while scraping down the line of scrimmage. Despite his height, he plays with good leverage. Refined stack-and-shed run-stopper. Type of defensive tackle you want to use on twists because of his athleticism. Plus physical talent with ascending power and awareness. Weaknesses: Must add weight and strength to hold up on the inside. Has the body of a heavier defensive end right now. Could lean on his athleticism more to win with speed through a gap en route to the quarterback. Early comparison: Malik Jackson) (5-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-an-early-introduction-to-the-potential-top-dl-in-next-years-draft-nick-bosa/
DT Christian Wilkins
Scouting Reports:
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2019cwilkins.php
Christian Wilkins NFL draft profile: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/02/07/christian-wilkins-nfl-draft-profile-2/
Articles:
DJ's takeaways from scouting combine (Christian Wilkins, Clemson (No. 18 to Vikings): Wilkins helped Clemson to a national title with his 57 tackles and six sacks. "People ask 'why do I have him as the top of these Clemson guys.' To me interior pass rushers are so hard to find, and he is so quick and explosive getting upfield. He'll get caught upright in the run game and toss to turn, but he's a disruptor and a penetrator.") (3-4-19): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001019889/article/daniel-jeremiahs-day-1-nfl-scouting-combine-takeaways
2019 NFL Combine Stock Report: Defensive Linemen (Up - Christian Wilkins is a potential top-10 pick, thanks to a great performance in the national championship. He continued to impress at the combine. He ran a 5.04 despite weighing in at 6-3, 315. Wilkins was also very smooth in the drills, which was not a surprise.) (3-3-19): http://walterfootball.com/combine2019stockDL.php
Combine takeaways: Big day for D-linemen (Clemson's Christian Wilkins might not have leapt off the screen like some other players, but his 5.04 40 at 315 pounds is still excellent, and he looked great running through drills, a natural at his size. If the class didn't include Williams, he'd likely be getting more buzz.) (3-3-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-results-montez-sweat-quinnen-williams-devin-white-josh-allen-dominate/
Combine: Oliver, Burns win weigh-ins (Winners - Christian Wilkins, Clemson. Wilkins' greatest strength is his versatility. He played everywhere and held down essentially every role for Clemson during his illustrious career with the Tigers. His weigh-in projects well to any of the interior spots.) (3-1-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-ed-oliver-brian-burns-among-winners-as-dls-edges-lbs-weigh-in-and-get-measured/
2019 NFL Combine: Here's a look at the drills and the prospects who could ace them (Bench Press - This is one of the most overrated, not super-translatable drills at the combine. It undoubtedly measures upper body strength, but it's typically the shorter-armed prospects who thrive in the bench. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson: Two Clemson defensive linemen here? No wonder the Tigers shut down Alabama in the national title. Wilkins is a compact defensive lineman who many times put his significant strength on display during his illustrious collegiate career in the ACC.) (2-28-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-combine-heres-a-look-at-the-drills-and-the-prospects-who-could-ace-them/
Who and what to watch at the 2019 NFL Combine: Interior defensive line (Christian Wilkins, Clemson (Suggested by: Ty Finch): With Robinson in the final year of his contract, Hand’s ability to be position flexible, assuming Wilkins has a high grade and then becomes available at a value pick, the Lions could be interested in solidifying the defensive line for the future by targeting Wilkins. As a penetrating 3-technique, Wilkins offers interior pass rush as well as above average intelligence — he won the 2018 Academic Heisman — but his run defense leaves something to be desired. At the Combine, watch for drills that prioritize power, which could elevate up or drop him down the Lions draft board.) (2-25-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/02/25/who-what-watch-2019-nfl-combine-interior-defensive-line/
2019 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine (Up - Wilkins: Wilkins is the other potential first-round defensive tackle who really benefits from Jeffery Simmons' injury. In speaking to numerous team sources, they saw Wilkins as a potential pick late in the first round, but with Simmons getting injured, that could help push Wilkins up closer to the middle of the first round. Wilkins has a lot of versatility as a player, and his personal makeup could also help him to rise. It would not be surprising if Wilkins ends up rising throughout the leadup to the 2019 NFL Draft.) (2-19-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_22.php
'He could be a 10-year All-Pro' -- Why Wilkins was built to dominate (2-15-19): http://www.nfl.com/christianwilkins
Christian Wilkins: Film Room (1-21-19): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-film-room-christian-wilkins
Projecting The NFL Scouting Combine: Defensive Line (Christian Wilkins, DT Clemson (Day 1) – A rare athletic specimen at 320 pounds, Wilkins is a highly competitive player who can dominate with physicality or finesse and players gravitate towards in the locker room.) (1-16-19): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/combine/projecting-the-nfl-scouting-combine-defensive-line-JnMnU1Uymk2YPB0birSorQ/
National championship: Christian Wilkins and other prospects whose draft stock changed in Alabama-Clemson title game (Up - Christian Wilkins, DL: Wilkins was the best defensive player on the field in a game loaded with early-round prospects. And while he'd played much better in 2018 than 2017 heading into this game, the senior saved his finest outing for the grandest stage. He finished with four tackles, a half sack, and a tackle for loss, but especially in the second half, he got consistent pressure on Tua Tagovailoa and was a monster against the run. As usual, he scraped well down the line of scrimmage on run plays away from him, got off blocks quickly, and his athleticism helped him get into the backfield in a hurry. The senior is an older prospect but is as well-rounded as they come at the position.) (1-8-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/national-championship-christian-wilkins-and-other-prospects-whose-draft-stock-changed-in-alabama-clemson-title-game/
2019 NFL Draft Stock - National Championship (Up - Wilkins: Wilkins ended his college career in style with a good performance against Alabama. In the first half, Wilkins caused a lot of disruption and put some pressure on the quarterback. He then helped clinch the win and end any hopes of a Crimson Tide comeback by making some splash plays to slam the door. Early in the fourth quarter, Wilkins made a superb play that saw him submarine into the backfield on a third-and-goal to get a tackle for a loss. Shortly later, Wilkins used his speed to fire between the center and right guard, while using his power to churn through them, before chasing down Jalen Hurts for a sack. This tape will help Wilkins to get selected in the middle to late portion of the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He fought through some double teams, held his ground against the run, and got after the quarterback. Wilkins looks a good fit as a three-technique tackle in a 4-3 defense.) (1-8-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2019stock_19.php
7 NFL Draft prospects for Lions to watch in Clemson vs. Alabama title game (Christian Wilkins, Clemson DT: Clemson has three first-round defensive line prospects, but only two are playing with Lawrence out. Wilkins is more of your Da'Shawn Hand skill set, with the ability to play end or tackle at a listed 6 feet 4 inches and 310 pounds. That'll appeal plenty to the Lions, who love to move guys from inside to outside depending on the situation. Wilkins was the most heralded of these Tigers linemen heading into the year, and he rebounded after a slightly down season to rack up 13 tackles for loss and five sacks. Clemson needs its defensive line to take over in order to win, and Wilkins could shoot back up the boards if he's able to turn in that kind of performance.) (1-7-19): https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/01/5e6a67e4c74585/7-nfl-draft-prospects-for-lion.html
7 draft prospects in CFP title game for Lions (DT Christian Wilkins
The Tigers have three first-round picks on their defensive line, and it’s truly a toss-up which one is the best NFL prospect. Wilkins is a three-year starter and consensus All-American who projects best as a three-technique defensive tackle in the NFL. He’s an excellent interior rusher (5.5 sacks this year) and team leader who’s also played as an end at various points in his career. The Lions have three good interior linemen in Harrison, Hand and Robinson, and Wilkins isn’t the same caliber prospect as Alabama’s Williams so he might not be worth the value to the Lions high in Round 1.) (1-6-19): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/01/06/alabama-clemson-nfl-draft-prospects/2495356002/
Scout’s Eye: 2019 CFB National Championship Game (DT Christian Wilkins, SR (6-3, 300, 5.04, #42, Day 1): A rare athletic specimen at 320 pounds, Wilkins is able to do backflips, splits and dunk a basketball with ease. He can dominate with physicality or finesse, possessing ultra-quick hands and can beat opponents with his strength or agility, which includes an excellent dip move. He’s a highly competitive player on the field and a leader who players gravitate towards in the locker room.) (1-5-19): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-2019-cfb-national-championship-game-IQSmXls_9kqHZrH38_RBEA/
Cotton Bowl: 2019 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Clemson vs. Notre Dame bowl game (Christian Wilkins, DL: Wilkins suffered a down year in 2017 after emerging as a legitimate star during his sophomore campaign in 2016 which culminated in a Clemson national title. In 2018, the supremely athletic and versatile defensive lineman was asked to two-gap on occasion but was also leaned on as a pure pass-rusher, and he didn't disappoint carrying out either responsibility. While he doesn't have a easy-to-spot trump card, Wilkins' strength, burst, and advanced hand work will translate well to the NFL level. He should go somewhere in the middle of the first round.) (12-29-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/cotton-bowl-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-clemson-vs-notre-dame-bowl-game/
The Draft Prospects the NFL Is Watching This Bowl Season (Clemson: DT Dexter Lawrence is one of three Clemson players who failed drug tests because they had traces of the illegal substance ostarine in their samples. He was one of three projected first-round talents on the Tigers’ defensive line, along with DT Christian Wilkins and DE Clelin Ferrell. Wilkins is incredibly nimble for a 315-pounder, and some evaluators believe he could actually contribute on offense, too (Clemson has used him some as a goal-line tailback). NFL teams wish he was more physical, because there are questions on how he plays the run, but in the passing game, he consistently wreaks havoc.) (12-27-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/27/2019-nfl-draft-bowl-season
Prospect Rankings – top 2019 NFL Draft prospects in the College Football Playoff (5. CHRISTIAN WILKINS, CLEMSON – DI: Finishing with the nation’s second-highest grade among interior defensive linemen is no small feat behind the aforementioned Williams, as Wilkins was dominant in his own right. A force against both the pass and the run, Wilkins brought down 40 total QB pressures this season on just 286 pass-rushes.) (12-22-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-top-50-prospects-in-college-football-playoff
NFL Draft 2019 Position Primers: Quinnen Williams Leads Interior: Defensive Linemen (CHRISTIAN WILKINS, CLEMSON
It’s hard to find a 300-plus pound lineman as quick and nimble as Wilkins. Clemson’s interior presence served as a goal line running back for the Tigers in 2018 and threw a touchdown pass to boot. He didn’t look out of place doing either. Wilkins is quicker than Williams, and has shown elite ability to take down running backs as they string toward the sideline. Wilkins doesn’t always match his athleticism with physicality. He can be a movable object inside. He won’t work through double teams, and doesn’t encourage much contact. Those questions could drop Wilkins out of the top ten. If Williams can develop a greater mean streak at the point of attack, he may emerge as a Pro Bowl tackle.) (12-14-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/nfl-draft-2019-position-primer-top-interior-defensive-linemen
A Lions NFL Draft prospect viewing guide for all 40 bowl games (Senior defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (6 feet 4 inches, 315 pounds) is versatile and disruptive with 39 career tackles for loss.) (12-15-18): https://www.mlive.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/12/342cde279e7273/a-lions-nfl-draft-prospect-vie.html
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 2.0: Herbert Moves Into Top 10, Uptick in Offense in Latest Rankings (12. CHRISTIAN WILKINS, DT, CLEMSON (Height: 6' 3" | Weight: 315 pounds): Wilkins is an athletic freak who some evaluators believe could actually pitch in on offense, too (he plays some goal-line tailback—not fullback, tailback). Most of the questions on him surround how he plays the run. But he can certainly wreak havoc in the passing game.) (12-14-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/12/14/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
2019 NFL Draft: Strengths of all prospects in top 32 (13. Christian Wilkins, DL, Clemson - Strengths: Versatility, athleticism, burst, block-shedding skills) (12-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-strengths-of-all-prospects-currently-in-top-32/
2018 PFF All-American Team (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR – CHRISTIAN WILKINS, CLEMSON: Wilkins not only leads the ACC’s interior defensive linemen in total pressures (36), he also led them in sacks (six) and finished second in hits (nine) and forced fumbles (two).) (12-3-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-2018-pff-all-americans
NCAA 2018 All Conference Championship Team (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR - Christian Wilkins, Clemson (Conference Championship Grade: 89.6): Wilkins needed just 18 pass-rushing snaps to record three pressures while he also came away with two run stops on 22 snaps in run defense.) (12-2-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-2018-all-conference-championship-team
Five possible Lions draft prospects: Week 14 (Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson (No. 42): Wilkins probably would have been a first-round pick had he came out last year. The 309-pounder is something of a Swiss army knife up front, with the ability to play as a nose tackle, 3- or 5-technique. That would give him valuable versatility in Patricia's multiple-front defense. Wilkins would provide immediate depth up front and give the Lions an insurance policy for A'Shawn Robinson, who will be entering the final year of his rookie contract.) (11-30-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/11/30/five-possible-lions-draft-prospects-week-14/2151079002/
Scout's Eye: Top NFL Prospects to Watch in Week 14 - nfldraftscout.com (DT Christian Wilkins, Clemson, SR. (6-3, 300, 5.04, #99): One of the most impressive athletic specimens eligible for this year's draft, Wilkins has proven his worth as a run-stopper since moving to the interior a season ago. He possesses ultra-quick hands, disengages quickly, demonstrates excellent change of direction in pursuit and can beat opponents with his strength or agility, which includes an excellent dip move. At 300-plus pounds, Wilkins can do back-flips, splits and dunk a basketball with ease. On the field, he can dominate with physicality or finesse. His future appears bright, as this is a highly competitive leader who helps fuel his teammates.) (11-29-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/scout-s-eye-top-nfl-prospects-to-watch-in-week-14-SkyfQCAuNEWZdnMUyJnjYw/
'He could be a 10-year All-Pro' -- Why Wilkins was built to dominate (11-29-18): http://www.nfl.com/labs/cfb247/christian-wilkins/christian-wilkins.html
Top 25 Observations – A salute to the senior class (2. CLEMSON - DI Christian Wilkins (93.0): Wilkins let the NFL wait another year and is producing the highest-graded season of his career. He has the third-highest grade among interior defensive linemen, only behind two potential first-round picks in Alabama’s Quinnen Williams (95.9) and Houston’s Ed Oliver (93.4). His run-stop percentage (13.7) is second only to Williams and he’s tied for seventh among with 32 total QB pressures and 30 stops. In his career, Wilkins has logged over 2,200 snaps and produced 111 total QB pressures and 111 stops.) (11-23-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-top-25-observations-week-13
Scout Takes on the Loaded 2019 Draft D-line Class (Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson: “He is a really good athlete. He's really a unique athlete for a 315-pound man. He is incredibly nimble, really moves like a smaller man. They put him in at fullback a few weeks ago against Florida State, but he legitimately looked like a jumbo fullback. They used him at tailback and they put Dexter Lawrence at fullback and then Wilkins scored a touchdown. It was a pretty impressive play. He moves like a smaller human being. He is really athletic playing on the move and if you’re a team that will just let him get upfield and use his athleticism, you’ve got a really good player. Now, the downside is, he tries to out-athlete people all the time. He does not have enough power in his game. If you ask him to sit and hunker down and take up blocks, that is not his deal at all. Teams wish he was more physical. He leaves you wanting more sometimes in terms of the sheer physicality. There will be teams that don’t think he fits for them, but teams that let him play his game, he could be really good. He just doesn’t show that physicality and violence in his game at Clemson. Probably somewhere in the second round, maybe first.”) (11-21-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/21/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-line-pass-rusher-scouting-reports
2019 NFL Draft Big Board 1.0: Nick Bosa No. 1, Justin Herbert Top QB at No. 13 (11. CHRISTIAN WILKINS, DT, CLEMSON: Wilkins is a freakish athlete who some project to contribute a little on offense in the NFL too, with his natural bend, change-of-direction ability, body control and ball skills. The question will be, as an attacking, upfield type, where he finds his home on defense in the NFL.) (11-15-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/15/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-rankings-nick-bosa-justin-herbert
2019 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings (19. Christian Wilkins, DL, Clemson: While he's going to be an older prospect, Wilkins will enter the league with a high floor because of his vast experience playing multiple roles and multiple positions, and his athleticism and power. He scrapes down the line of scrimmage while being blocked to get to the ball-carrier as well as any defensive linemen in the country and has taken a step forward as a pass-rusher in 2018.) (11-14-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-zach-allen-has-the-power-refined-game-to-be-star-defensive-lineman/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (17. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson: Wilkins was very disruptive and helped limit the Boston College offense. He had four tackles with 1.5 for a loss agains the Golden Eagles. Taking on Louisville, Wilkins played well with five tackles and .5 sacks. Versus N.C. State, Wilkins caused a lot of disruption in the backfield with pass pressure on Ryan Finley. Wilkins made five tackles versus Wake Forest. Against Georgia Tech, he had three tackles with 2.5 tackles for a loss and one sack. On the year, Wilkins is up to 34 tackles with 10.5 for a loss, 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble.) (11-13-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama's Quinnen Williams rising but not (yet) No. 1 (8. Wilkins: In terms of his production, versatility and leadership, Wilkins might just be the most unique player in the 2019 draft. He is a proven difference-maker regardless of where has Clemson lined him up the past three seasons, showing shocking agility and energy (on and off the field) for a man of his size and seeing time at defensive tackle, defensive end and even fullback. Not surprisingly, Clemson coaches rave about Wilkins' selflessness and leadership as he was credited with convincing some of his teammates to return for another post-season run this year. I'm also intrigued by his awareness, as his 13 passes defended over the 2016-17 two seasons is a very high number for a 300 pounder.) (11-8-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-s-quinnen-williams-rising-but-not-yet-no-1-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (17. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 18 Avg. 21.3 per 11): Taking on Louisville, Wilkins played well with five tackles and .5 sacks. Versus N.C. State, Wilkins caused a lot of disruption in the backfield with pass pressure on Ryan Finley. Wilkins made five tackles versus Wake Forest. Against Georgia Tech, he had three tackles with 2.5 tackles for a loss and one sack. On the year, Wilkins is up to 29 tackles with nine for a loss and 2.5 sacks.) (11-7-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Alabama vs. LSU highlight must-see Week 10 matchups: (8. Christian Wilkins: In terms of his production, versatility and leadership, Wilkins might just be the most unique player in the 2019 draft. He is a proven difference-maker regardless of where has Clemson lined him up the past three seasons, showing shocking agility and energy (on and off the field) for a man of his size and seeing time at defensive tackle, defensive end and even fullback. Not surprisingly, Clemson coaches rave about Wilkins’ selflessness and leadership as he was credited with convincing some of his teammates to return for another post-season run this year. I’m also intrigued by his awareness, as his 13 passes defended over the 2016-17 two seasons is a very high number for a 300 pounder.) (11-2-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-alabama-vs-lsu-highlight-must-see-week-10-matchups-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (17. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 18 Avg. 21.6 per 10): Taking on Florida State, Wilkins played well with a few tackles and pressures in the pass rush. Versus N.C. State, Wilkins caused a lot of disruption in the backfield with pass pressure on Ryan Finley. Wilkins made five tackles versus Wake Forest. Against Georgia Tech, he had three tackles with 2.5 tackles for a loss and one sack. On the year, Wilkins is up to 24 tackles with six for a loss and two sacks.) (10-31-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
NCAA Week 9 – Team of the Week (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR - Christian Wilkins, Clemson (Week 9 Grade: 85.7): Wilkins gets in here because he also had plus grades on the offensive side of the ball (1 att., 1 yard, 1 TD) while he dominated on the defensive side of the ball, albeit for just 29 snaps. Wilkins recorded five pressures on just 19 pass-rush snaps and recorded two stops on just 10 snaps against the run.) (10-28-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-9-team-of-the-week
WATCH: Clemson's 300-pound Christian Wilkins scores rushing TD (10-28-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/10/27/christian-wilkins-touchdown-clemson-florida-state-nfl-draft-watch/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: Surprising QB class shakes up the rankings (9. Wilkins (2018: 23 tackles, 5.5 tackle for loss, two sacks (six games)): In terms of his production, versatility and leadership, Wilkins might just be the most unique player in the 2019 draft. He is a proven difference-maker regardless of where has Clemson lined him up the past three seasons, showing shocking agility and energy (on and off the field) for a man of his size and seeing time at defensive tackle, defensive end and even fullback. Not surprisingly, Clemson coaches rave about Wilkins’ selflessness and leadership as he was credited with convincing some of his teammates to return for another post-season run this year. I’m also intrigued by his awareness, as his 13 passes defended over the 2016-17 two seasons is a very high number for a 300 pounder.) (10-26-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-surprising-qb-class-shakes-up-the-rankings-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (18. Wilkins: Versus N.C. State, Wilkins caused a lot of disruption in the backfield with pass pressure on Ryan Finley. Wilkins made five tackles versus Wake Forest. Against Georgia Tech, he had three tackles with 2.5 tackles for a loss and one sack. On the year, Wilkins is up to 22 tackles with 5.5 for a loss and two sacks.) (10-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Defensive line full of future NFL draft picks help Clemson bury NC State (Clemson owned the advantage in size and athleticism at most positions but it was especially obvious along the line of scrimmage, where the Tigers’ dynamic duo of defensive tackles Christian Wilkins and Dexter Lawrence routinely collapsed the middle, allowing twitchy edge rusher Clelin Ferrell (among others) to clean up. With his outspoken personality and All-American resume, the 6-foot-3, 315 pound Wilkins is perhaps the most well known of Clemson’s top prospects. While his frame suggests run-stuffer, Wilkins’ initial quickness, lateral agility and relentless style of play make him just as effective against the pass, helping him rack up 32 tackles for loss and 13 passes deflected over his career.) (10-22-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/defensive-line-full-of-future-nfl-draft-picks-help-clemson-bury-nc-state-HaQkjlVx9kaWoQ_i2PCMTg/
NFL Prospect Matchups: NC State vs. Clemson (His task is a tough one, as Bradbury must stop the Tigers duo of Christian Wilkins and Dexter Lawrence. When on his game Wilkins, is an unstoppable force and a complete three-down lineman. He’s a dominant pass rusher who occupies the gaps or chases the action in pursuit to make plays in space. Wilkins is not always on his game, which is a problem. Lawrence is bigger and more powerful but slightly overrated in my view. He destroys opponents on occasion, but Lawrence does not play with leverage, which dissipates much of his natural size and power.) (10-19-18): http://draftanalyst.com/nfl-prospect-matchups-nc-state-vs-clemson
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: ACC, SEC defenders rising as rivalry games begin (8. Wilkins ((2018: 21 tackles, 5.5 tackle for loss, two sacks (six games)): In terms of his production, versatility and leadership, Wilkins might just be the most unique player in the 2019 draft. He is a proven difference-maker regardless of where has Clemson lined him up the past three seasons, showing shocking agility and energy (on and off the field) for a man of his size. Clemson coaches rave about Wilkins’ selflessness and leadership. I’m also intrigued by his awareness, as his 13 passes defended over the 2016-17 two seasons is a very high number for a 300 pounder.) (10-18-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-acc-sec-defenders-rising-as-rivalry-games-begin-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (22. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 23 Avg. 22.6 per 8): Clemson had a bye last week. Wilkins made five tackles versus Wake Forest. Against Georgia Tech, he had three tackles with 2.5 tackles for a loss and one sack. On the year, Wilkins is up to 20 tackles with 5.5 for a loss and two sacks.) (10-17-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
NCAA Midseason All-American Team (Defensive Interior - Honorable Mention: Christian Wilkins, Clemson) (10-15-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-midseason-all-american-team
2019 NFL Draft Big Board - Oregon's Justin Herbert to be tested by gifted UW DBs (8. Wilkins (2018: 21 tackles, 5.5 tackle for loss, two sacks (six games)): In terms of his production, versatility and leadership, Wilkins might just be the most unique player in the 2019 draft. He is a proven difference-maker regardless of where has Clemson lined him up the past three seasons, showing shocking agility and energy (on and off the field) for a man of his size. Clemson coaches rave about Wilkins’ selflessness and leadership. I’m also intrigued by his awareness, as his 13 passes defended over the 2016-17 two seasons is a very high number for a 300 pounder.) (10-12-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-oregon-s-justin-herbert-to-be-tested-by-gifted-uw-dbs-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (23. Wilkins: Wilkins made five tackles versus Wake Forest. Against Georgia Tech, he had three tackles with 2.5 tackles for a loss and one sack. On the year, Wilkins is up to 20 tackles with 5.5 for a loss and two sacks.) (10-10-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
The 5 top-graded defensive players from every Power-5 conference (1. Christian Wilkins, DI, Clemson (2018 season grade: 90.4): All the preseason hype was on the Clemson defensive line as they’ve more than lived up to the billing. Wilkins has added a solid pass-rushing resume to his game this season, bringing in 11 pressures on his 92 pass-rushes including a sack and two QB hits. Currently, his 81.8 pass-rushing grade is a career-high.) (10-5-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-top-5-defensive-players-power-5
2018 NFL Draft Big Board - New duo boost already dominant defensive line class (8. Wilkins (2018: 18 tackles, 5.5 tackle for loss, two sacks (five games)): In terms of his production, versatility and leadership, Wilkins might just be the most unique player in the 2019 draft. He is a proven difference-maker regardless of where has Clemson lined him up the past three seasons, showing shocking agility and energy (on and off the field) for a man of his size. Clemson coaches rave about Wilkins’ selflessness and leadership. I’m also intrigued by his awareness, as his 13 passes defended over the 2016-17 two seasons is a very high number for a 300 pounder.) (10-4-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2018-nfl-draft-big-board-new-duo-boost-already-dominant-defensive-line-class-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (23. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 23 Avg. 22.7 per 6): Wilkins made two tackles versus Syracuse. Against Georgia Tech, he had three tackles with 2.5 tackles for a loss and one sack. On the year, Wilkins is up to 15 tackles with 4.5 for a loss and two sacks.) (10-3-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Rankings 2.0: Top 25 prospects in 2018 college football season (25. Wilkins: Defensive coordinators can't wait to get their hands on guys like Wilkins, who can play anywhere from nose tackle to defensive end in a three- or four-man front. Wilkins' versatility and athleticism should make him a hot commodity when the draft rolls around in April. -- BB) (9-25-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000966534/article/rankings-20-top-25-prospects-in-2018-college-football-season
NCAA Week 4 – Team of the Week (DEFENSIVE INTERIOR - Christian Wilkins, Clemson (Week 4 Grade: 92.0): Wilkins returns to his spot on our Team of the Week for an incredible effort against Georgia Tech and their option attack. While he recorded three defensive stops on the day, his pass-rushing was what really impressed. On just five dropbacks that he saw from the Yellow Jackets, Wilkins recorded a sack and an additional QB hurry, winning almost at will with his pass-rushing.) (9-23-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/college-pff-ncaa-week-4-team-of-the-week
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (23. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson. (Previously: 23 Avg. 22.5 per 4): Taking on Georgia Southern, Wilkins had two tackles. He played well against Texas A&M, stuffing runs and causing disruption. On the year, Wilkins has 12 tackles with two for a loss and one sack. ) (9-19-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3 (31. CHRISTIAN WILKINS, CLEMSON – INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN: Like a few others on this list, there’s some projection to Wilkins’ game as he’s a better run defender than he is pass-rusher (91.1 run-defense grade ranks fifth in the nation, 74.1 pass-rush grade ranks 24th). He must continue to improve his pass-rush production.) (9-18-18): PFF 2019 NFL Draft Board – Top 32 prospects after Week 3
2019 NFL Draft Big Board (23. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson.: Wilkins played well against Texas A&M, stuffing runs and causing disruption. On the year, Wilkins has 10 tackles with two for a loss and one sack.) (9-12-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
2019 NFL Draft Big Board: More D-linemen added after wowing in Week One (7. Wilkins (2018: 7 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 1 sack (one game, Furman)): In terms of his production, versatility and leadership, Wilkins might just be the most unique player in the 2019 draft. He is a proven difference-maker regardless of where has Clemson lined him up the past three seasons, showing shocking agility and energy (on and off the field) for a man of his size. Clemson coaches rave about Wilkins’ selflessness and leadership. I’m also intrigued by his awareness, as his 13 passes defended over the past two seasons is a very high number for a 300 pounder.) (9-6-18): https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/2019-nfl-draft-big-board-more-d-linemen-added-after-wowing-in-week-one-8tPJSEazH0KiLlaXB8a8tg/
2019 NFL Draft Big Boa. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson.: In 2017, Wilkins totaled 60 tackles with 8.5 tackles for a loss and four sacks. He played well all year, using his speed and athleticism to cause disruption at the point of attack. In speaking with sources at multiple teams, they see Wilkins as a future first-rounder. He is a fast interior pass-rusher who can collapse the pocket and provide an inside pass rush. Wilkins (6-3, 312) played well for Clemson in 2016 as part of a tough defensive line that controlled the point of attack. The sophomore recorded 48 tackles with 13 tackles for a loss, 3.5 sacks and 10 passes batted. Wilkins made 33 tackles and two sacks as a freshman in 2015. He has a nice skill set with versatility to play a lot of techniques up front.) (8-30-18): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Ranking the top 25 prospects in 2018: Bosa's bro to wreak havoc? (12. Wilkins: Wilkins has the versatility to move up and down the line of scrimmage. He has a quick first step and outstanding lateral range. -- DJ) (8-30-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000952266/article/ranking-the-top-25-prospects-in-the-2018-college-football-season
Greg Gabriel early 2019 NFL Draft breakdown: Clemson DL Christian Wilkins (8-16-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/08/16/greg-gabriel-early-2019-nfl-draft-breakdown-clemson-dl-christian-wilkins/a6c6ghq/
2019 NFL Draft prospect rankings -- top 5 at every position (5. Christian Wilkins, Clemson: Strengths – Wilkins has the tools to beat blocks and make plays in the running game and that’s where he’s been at his best during his three-year college career. Room to improve in 2018 – The pass-rush production simply hasn’t been there for Wilkins in order to justify the first-round hype. He needs to take a major step forward in 2018 after grading at only 67.8 as a pass-rusher last season.) (8-14-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2019-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-5-at-every-position
Scouting the ACC - Clemson (For the second year in a row, several scouts head towards the start of the regular season in college football with Christian Wilkins graded as the top prospect in the nation. Wilkins is a big, athletic lineman with the ability to dominate the action when he puts his mind to it. Wilkins is a terrific pass rusher with the ability to disrupt plays in the backfield or change direction and catch ball carriers in backside pursuit. He effortlessly moves around the field and overwhelms the opposition. He can defend the run or occupy the gaps; his game is complete. The problem for Wilkins? He doesn’t do it on an every-down basis and takes plays off, which will be a talking point leading up to the draft.) (7-27-18): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-acc-clemson-0
2018 college football season: Top 11 defensive linemen to watch (6. Wilkins: Wilkins has been deployed at defensive end and defensive tackle, similar to how Alabama used Jonathan Allen before he moved on to the NFL, but Wilkins lacks Allen's high-end pass-rush production. However, Wilkins does have fast hands and quick feet. He uses his lateral quickness to attack gaps and create the type of disruption that can throw blocking schemes off track. Wilkins wins with his athletic ability, football IQ, and motor, but his lack of mass and arm length is something that he will have to learn to work around at the next level.) (7-13-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000940247/article/2018-college-football-season-top-11-defensive-linemen-to-watch
Who Are the Defensive Linemen Expected to Dominate the 2019 NFL Draft? (DT Christian Wilkins, senior, Clemson: Wilkins’ decision to return was as shocking as Ferrell’s. A freakish athlete at 6' 4", 300 pounds (there’s video of him doing a back flip on the internet) he’ll do best with a team that attacks upfield with its defensive linemen. If there’s any question with him, it’s how he’ll hold up against the run—Alabama exploited him in that area in last year’s playoffs.) (7-12-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/07/12/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-linemen-nick-bosa-dexter-lawrence
18 for '18: College football's most freakish athletes (8. Wilkins: After a surprising decision to return to college for his senior year, Wilkins returns as one of the ACC's most feared defensive linemen. It's no wonder: He can play up and down the line in various roles, and has the athleticism to excel at each. Wilkins (6-3, 309 pounds) can bench press 225 pounds 30 times, an excellent total by NFL combine standards, and runs a 4.89-second 40-yard dash. He can clean and press 265 pounds, and boasts a 3-cone drill time of 7.51 seconds.)(6-29-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000938992/article/18-for-18-college-footballs-most-freakish-athletes
NFL Draft Defender Ranks (6. Christian Wilkins is a 6-foot-4, 300-pounder who has experience inside and outside but profiles better inside at the next level. Arguably overshadowed playing beside Dexter Lawrence, Clelin Ferrell and Austin Bryant, Wilkins is nonetheless a prime Round 1 prospect. If you’re looking for length and movement at a slight discount next spring because of the DL class’ depth, he might be your guy late in the first stanza. Wilkins ranks No. 2 among returning ACC interior defenders with a 7.7 run stop percentage in 2017.) (6-8-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/80349/325/2019-nfl-draft-defensive-ranks
Brugler: Early Top 12 prospects for 2019 NFL Draft (8. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson (6-3, 310, 5.04, senior): The top-rated senior entering the 2018 college football season, Wilkins, who has already graduated, surprised many by returning for his final season of eligibility. An athletic three-technique lineman, he moves differently than most 300-plus pounders with flexible hips and joints, staying balanced and chasing down ball-carriers.) (6-4-18): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/brugler-early-top-12-prospects-for-2019-nfl-draft-g3Y8aWBH3EmWOgw8z-eLjA/
2019 NFL Draft: An early introduction to nine of the potential top defensive linemen (Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
Experience: Long-time performer on an assortment of talented Clemson defensive lines. Has already played in 40 games for the Tigers. Has 141 tackles, 26.5 tackles for loss, and 10.5 sacks in three seasons. Strengths: Squatty, wide frame with good, and at times, impressive power. For his size, he shows flashes of impactful quickness. Tireless worker on the interior with two-gapping experience. In 2016, in more of an attacking role, his athleticism was more on display, and he fill up the stat sheet, especially with tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Weaknesses: Not as much of a rock against double teams as you'd expect given his size and moments of plus power when getting upfield. Doesn't provide much pass-rush due to average burst and unpolished hand work through the line. Early comparison: Johnathan Hankins) (5-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-an-early-introduction-to-the-potential-top-dl-in-next-years-draft-nick-bosa/
18 for '18: Defensive prospects who will be NFL stars (5. Wilkins: To the delight of Tigers fans, and the chagrin of offensive line coaches throughout the ACC, Wilkins will be back in orange this fall. After three years as a starter playing at an All-ACC level, there isn't anything left to prove for Wilkins. But there is a tight bond with his star-studded cast of fellow D-linemen, and the lure of a third straight CFP. Count him among the uncommon defensive tackles athletic enough to stay on the field on third down.) (5-22-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000933757/article/18-for-18-defensive-prospects-who-will-be-nfl-stars
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