Blogging The Boys
Inside defensive line is a need for Dallas, get to know these guys in the draft
The Dallas Cowboys need a defensive tackle at some point in the draft so knowing these guys will be crucial from the team’s scouting department. We continue to dive in our top positional series and this time look at the top defensive tackles in this year’s draft, giving a quick description of their best and worst attribute.
Best - Quickness
Snap anticipation, burst, speed, and agility. Mason’s exceptional combination of quickness and technical pass rush skills makes him a disruptive force on the defensive line. His wrestling background contributes to his balance and hand usage, allowing him to effectively control offensive linemen and penetrate the backfield. Graham’s ability to generate pressure as both a run defender and pass rusher, despite not having prototypical size, sets him apart as a top prospect in this year’s draft at a top-5 prospect.
Worst - Size
At 6-foot-3 and 296 pounds, Graham is considered slightly undersized for an NFL defensive tackle. His arm length, which is coming in at 32”, is also shorter than ideal. This can make it challenging for Graham to disengage from blocks against larger, longer-armed offensive linemen.
Best - Power
Grant’s elite trait is his exceptional power. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing over 330 pounds, he possesses the physical dominance to anchor any defensive line and effectively occupy multiple blockers. Despite his substantial frame, Grant exhibits a remarkable explosive first step, allowing him to penetrate gaps and disrupt plays in the backfield. His ability to maintain control at the point of attack with his brute force and strength makes him a formidable run-stopper, and this will help him contribute on any defensive front.
Worst - Pad Level
Despite his elite size and strength, Grant often rises too high out of his stance when rushing the passer. This high pad level reduces his leverage and power, making it easier for offensive linemen to neutralize his bull rush and control him. It limits his effectiveness as a pass rusher and prevents him from fully capitalizing on his athletic gifts in obvious passing situations. Lowest man wins in the NFL, Grant is often the highest.
Best - Explosiveness
Nolen’s greatest trait is his exceptional first-step explosiveness. This quick initial movement allows him to penetrate offensive lines rapidly, disrupting plays in the backfield and applying immediate pressure on quarterbacks. His combination of speed and power makes him a formidable presence on the defensive line.
Worst - Pad Level Consistency
Nolen’s most notable weakness is his inconsistent pad level. This deteriorates and becomes more obvious as the game continues and Nolen gets more fatigued. Unfortunately, Nolen has a tendency to play too upright, which allows offensive linemen to gain leverage and control the point of attack. This chink in his armor shows up in both pass-rushing and run defense situations as his motor cools....
