When it comes to defense, it is hard to find a talent in the latter rounds. However, some have had that opportunity to shine. Has your team ever drafted a late round defensive gem? Will 2017 produce a late rounder on defense? Let us take a look at one player at each position on defense that has a chance if selected.
Defensive End
Keionta Davis – Tennessee-Chattanooga, 6’3” 271lbs
Davis comes with a compact and powerful frame. Additionally, has the arm length to create separation. Similarly, he is not a stats only player. Thus, he is willing to do the grunt work that opens it up for his teammates. Finally, if he is able to add some weight he could be a nice three-technique.
Projected Rounds – 6 or 7
Defensive Tackle
Treyvon Hester – Toledo, 6’2” 300lbs
Hester comes in this draft as an athletic big man. In fact, he has the ability to shed blocks and makes quick tackles. In addition to shedding blocks, he also has quick hands. Therefore, he is able to get around blocks early. Consequently, he is a solid three-technique. Overall, he will make a good rotational player.
Projected Round – 7
Linebacker
Ben Boulware – Clemson, 6’0” 238lbs
Boulware was a 2-yr starter for the Tigers. First, timing is everything, right. In fact, he times his hits and blitzes very well. Actually, he is a very well prepared linebacker. Boulware also has a high motor and is very emotional in the huddle.
Projected Rounds – 6 or 7
Cornerback
Damontae Kazee – San Diego State, 5’10” 184lbs
Kazee is the MWC Defensive Player of the Year. He is coming off an 8 INT season. These 8 INTs came because he has very strong ball tracking skills. In the same way, he has tremendous hand-eye coordination. As a matter of fact, he forced six fumbles. Given his knack for making the big play will intrigue teams.
Projected Rounds – 5 or 6
Free Safety
Fish Smithson – Kansas, 5’11” 190lbs
Smithson has above average football instincts. For instance, he recognizes patterns from any coverage. He also easily recognizes play-action and gets to his coverage. Above all, he loves to hit. Overall, he has the potential to play both safety spots.
Projected Rounds – 6 or 7
Strong Safety
Nathan Gerry – Nebraska, 6’2” 218lbs
Gerry is a solid specimen at safety. That fact that he is so built allows him to play strong near the LOS. Yet, he still has the ability to operate in zone coverages. In addition to this, he has an innate ability to read receivers routes. This, combined with his tremendous ball skills gave him 13 career INTs at Nebraska.
Projected Rounds 6 or 7
This is just a small sample of the players who could be taken this weekend in the NFL Draft. Do you have a favorite on this list? One or more of these men will be playing on Sunday. Who are your late round gems? You can comment below.
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