Posts Tagged ‘Defensive Ends’

(part 1)

Defensive Ends

No player in this year’s draft has solidified himself as the clear-cut number 1 pick thus far. And frankly, I am not sure anyone WILL run away from the competition like you so often see elite players do this time of year. I can’t say there are any of Mario Williams or Peyton Manning’s caliber who are franchise players. Nevertheless, don’t judge this year’s class on just its top 5 or 10 players, but more so by its depth from pick 1 down to pick 200.

With that said, let me start by discussing the defensive ends.

Like I said before, there may be no Mario Williams types, but a handful of ends will be chosen in the first round alone. This class of ends is mainly suited for defensive schemes where speed and athleticism are emphasized, namely the 4-3 end or 3-4 rush linebacker spots. Brian Orakpo (Texas), Everette Brown (Florida State), Larry English (Northern Illinois), Tyson Jackson (LSU), and Michael Johnson (Georgia Tech) could all go in the first or second round. In fact, depending on who drafts them, English, Orakpo, and Brown are all possibilities to bounce to outside linebacker in the 3-4 schemes.

My favorite player in this group is Brian Orakpo. If it weren’t for frequent injury concerns and some inconsistent technique, I would seriously consider him to be a top 5 pick. Keep an eye on him during the combine (benches 515 lbs. and runs the 40 yard dash in 4.6 seconds). I had a class with “Rack daddy,” and he is a monster in person!  To give you a comparison from last year, think Vernon Gholston type of build. Orakpo will probably do as well at the combine or even better!

Unfortunately, Michael Johnson will also shine at the combine, which may coax teams to grade him higher than he should be. In my opinion, he just disappears on film at times, and seems to be a major underperformer. He is a serious boom or bust type of player who I wouldn’t use a first round pick on.

Next installation will be looking at the linebackers. So check back soon!