NFL Draft – Defensive Tackle Rankings
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13.) Daniel McCullers, Tennessee (6’7, 352): As expected with his size, McCullers is a good run-stuffer who is tough to move off the LOS. He doesn’t offer much in terms of pass rush and has little lateral movement ability, but you can’t teach size and McCullers will improve a team’s run defense just by stepping on the field. Draft Projection: 3rd-4th round
14.) Justin Ellis, Louisiana Tech (6’1, 334): Was a good run-stuffer as a NT in college and flashed some pass rush skill at the Shrine game and again at the Senior Bowl, but hasn’t done it consistently enough to be a sure thing. Ellis has plenty of talent though and is moving up most draft boards. He could provide depth at NT initially and eventually move into the starting role as his technique improves. Draft Projection: 4th round
15.) DeAndre Coleman, California (6’5, 314): Not much of a pass rusher, but has the quickness to be one if motivated. Coleman has the ability to be more dominant than he was in college, so it could be a motor issue. He showed flashes of dominance at the Senior Bowl and could be a steal if a team can get him to play hard consistently. Coleman is already pretty good against the run, so worst case Coleman can provide good depth in the middle of the D-line but has starter potential. Draft Projection: 4th-5th round
16.) Jay Bromley, Syracuse (6’3, 307): Quick, disruptive DT who had 9 sacks his senior year. After watching tape on Bromley, I think he is underrated as a late round pick. He needs to get stronger, but has an explosive first step and the versatility to play the 3 or 5 technique which will increase his value. Draft Projection: 5th-6th round
17.) Bruce Gaston, Purdue (6’2, 308): Gaston caught my attention during the week of the East / West Shrine game and I was surprised that he didn’t receive a combine invite. He had a bit of a down year in 2013 after Purdue switched to a 3-4 scheme. Gaston was more effective in 2012 as a 4-3 DT showing surprising lateral quickness and the ability to get off blocks. He had a solid pro day with a 4.95 40-time, 34 bench reps, and a 34″ vertical. His bench output would have been 3rd among D-lineman at the combine and his vertical 8th, which isn’t bad for a 308 pounder. Gaston would be good depth at the 3-tech for the Bears and potentially more with some added strength and experience. Draft Projection: 7th round – UFA
18.) Shamar Stephen, Connecticut (6’5, 308): Good size and very strong, Stephen was a solid run-stuffer in college and will provide solid depth in the middle as a 1-tech in a 4-3 or a NT in a 3-4 if he can add a little more weight. Draft Projection: 5th-6th round. Draft Projection: 5th-6th round
19.) Calvin Barnett, Oklahoma St (6’2, 300): Barnett had a productive senior season and was a surprise combine snub. Barnett wears down quickly so he would be best suited as part of a rotation but can provide a good power / speed combo inside for limited stretches. Draft Projection: 6th-7th round