1. Aidan Hutchinson, Michigan
Strengths: size/athleticism, high motor/ability to set the edge versus run and the pass
Weakness: speed/ability to play in space, some technique issues
Draft Projection: Top 3
2. Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon
Strengths: strength/athleticism, pass rush/pass rush moves
Weakness: consistency versus run/size to take on O-line, injuries
Draft Projection: Top 3 – Top 10
3. Travon Walker, Georgia
Strengths: strength/strong hands, potential/versatility (DE, LB, DT)
Weakness: awareness/some technique issues, learning as a pass rusher
Draft Projection: Top 10 – Top 15
4. Jermaine Johnson II, Florida State
Strengths: size/athleticism, versatility (LB/DE)/potential
Weakness: consistency/motor, only 1yr at DE (raw)/some technique issues
Draft Projection: Top 15 – Late 1st Round
5. George Karlaftis, Purdue
Strengths: size/strength, bull rush versus run, pass, double-teams
Weakness: stiffness, run stopping technique
Draft Projection: Top 15 – Late 1st Round
Position Grade: A-
The Defensive End position is in the conversation at the top of the draft with the lack of QBs, led by Hutchinson who is still in consideration to go #1. Hutchinson should be a consistent conventional pass rusher with a high floor. Thibodeaux was originally in the mix for #1 but he should still go high in the draft; he will be considered more of an edge rusher based on his size and should be used multiple ways. Walker has risen up draft boards after a strong combine and offers scheme and positional versatility which adds to his potential, he should help stop the run early. Johnson caught scouts eyes at the Senior Bowl practices to the point he didn’t need to play in the game; he can play in any scheme and should play early and often. Karlaftis is higher on other lists depending how much you like his pass rush; he is evidently strong and should be a consistent balanced player who can stop the run and pass. Other players to watch are Drake Jackson, USC, Cameron Thomas, San Diego State, Kingsley Enagbare, South Carolina, and Myjai Sanders, Cincinnati.
