Which Defensive Linemen Helped Themselves Today

Marcell Dareus:

Dareus dominated the combine in both the athletic and positional drills. He carried his weight well, and showed good explosion. He has the potential to play anywhere along the defensive line. Dareus looks like an instant starter and and a surefire top 10 guy. You could make a strong case for Dareus jumping over Nick Fairley for the top pick at this position, and even for Dareus to hear his name called first overall.

J.J. Watt:

Watt came in extremely athletic and showed that he can handle his own and be a top 20 pick come April. Watt was extremely strong and quick, and showed good athleticism in the drills.

Cameron Jordan:

Jordan continued his offseason dominance as he had a great combine to go along with his impressive Senior Bowl. Jordan showed 4.7 speed which is insane for a 5 technique. He is working his way up and very well could be a top 10 guy.

Marvin Austin:

Austin has a lot of questions to answer about his attitude, but he was arguably the best DT out there today. Excellent, burst and speed as well as a strong rip. Austin still isn’t a first rounder, but he could start entering the 2nd round mix with this performance. He’s a raw talent, but it is pretty legit.

Corey Liuget:

Liuget was yet another DT (or 3-4 DE) who really exploded at the combine. He didn’t always show the best numbers, but he had excellent explosion and runs with a very low center of gravity. He’s the type of guy who is going to get leverage, and get into the backfield quickly.

Ryan Kerrigan:

Kerrigan answered a number of questions about whether or not he had the size and speed to handle being a 4-3 DE, and he toped it off by looking very fluid in drills. Kerrigan could even stand up in a 3-4, but I think he really helped his draft stock here today. He is a top 20 player, and should be an excellent pass rusher.