Defensive Tackle Rankings

[Matthew Jones]

Just worked on some rankings for the senior defensive tackles in this year's draft. Projecting which underclassmen will declare is difficult so I didn't add them to the list yet, but if you have someone specific you'd like to know about, ask me and I'll give you some information on them as long as I've seen them play enough to comment.

Defensive Tackle Rankings

1. Alameda Ta'amu, Washington (6'3", 337, 5.20)

Massive nose-tackle prospect who has no problems taking on double teams. Much better motor and athleticism than most nose tackles; range is impressive. Excellent hit and wrap tackling technique.

2. Brandon Thompson, Clemson (6'2", 310, 4.95)

Doesn't have amazing pass-rush ability but can take on double teams and is stout against the run; has a very well-rounded game. Can fit in some 3-4 defenses. Reminiscent of 2010 first-round pick Corey Liuget.

3. Devon Still, Penn St. (6'5", 305, 5.10)

Almost as quick off the snap as Michigan State underclassman Jerel Worthy. Size makes him a strong bet to be drafted as a 3-4 defensive end. Faced concerns about motor and production prior to this season.

4. Kendall Reyes, Connecticut (6'4", 295, 5.00)

Has been used at defensive tackle, defensive end, nose tackle, and outside linebacker. Best fit is as a 3-4 defensive end. Can take on and shed double teams. Sometimes has trouble locating the ballcarrier.

5. Billy Winn, Boise St. (6'4", 295, 4.90)

Shows the ability to knife into the backfield. Has been used at defensive end, defensive tackle, and even standing up but did not live up to expectations this year. Best fit is at defensive end in a 3-4.

6. Josh Chapman, Alabama (6'1", 310, 5.02)

Projects as a nose tackle in the NFL but may not have the bulk for a two-gap system. Impressive ability to anchor against the run. Effective swim move and bull rush. Impressive range in pursuit.

7. DaJohn Harris, Southern California (6'4", 310, 5.20)

Size makes him scheme-versatile between 4-3 and 3-4 defenses. Athletic and has a strong initial punch. Plays with good leverage. Not as constantly disruptive as former teammate and 2010 draft pick Jurrell Casey.

8. Kheeston Randall, Texas (6'5", 295, 5.10)

Has the size and length to be an effective 3-4 defensive end but disappears for long stretches. Can control blockers with strength. Motor is not always running; not extremely active in pursuit.

9. Mike Martin, Michigan (6'2", 304, 5.00)

Aggressive pass-rusher with active hands. Swim move has been very successful. Lacks the bulk to anchor when run at and projects as a situational pass rusher. Needs to develop more pass rush moves.

10. Kaleb Ramsey, Boston College (6'3", 302, 5.05)

Has more impressive closing quickness and change-of-direction skills than expected from someone his size. Does a nice job of getting his hands up against the pass. Needs to develop more pass rush moves.

11. Tydreke Powell, North Carolina (6'3", 310, 5.30)

Has a stout build and does a nice job of holding the point of attack. Uses a few different pass rush moves with success. Not as athletic as former Tar Heel Marvin Austin. Projects as a nose tackle in a 4-3 defense.

12. Jaye Howard, Florida (6'3", 303, 5.05)

Plays a lot of defensive end for the Gators. Has an athletic build and moves around well. Can get into the backfield and disrupt plays. Needs to improve his ability to anchor when being run at; can be moved.

Not Ranked

Mike Daniels, Iowa (6'1", 280, 4.84)

Derek Wolfe, Cincinnati (6'5", 300, 5.20)