Greg Gabriel: The Top Five 4-3 Defensive Ends in the 2016 NFL Draft.

RS12

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Joey Bosa – Ohio State

Bosa will most likely be a top five selection come April 28th. He is easily the best 4-3 defensive end on the board and is one of those players with scheme versatility. Right now, Bosa stands about 6’5 – 275. He could easily get to 285+ and play as a 5 technique in a 3-4. At his present size and athletic ability he is the most dominant 4-3 end available and he showed at his pro day that he could easily drop in to coverage if used as a 3-4 outside linebacker.

Regardless of where he plays and in what scheme, on passing downs his hand will be in the dirt and he will be rushing the passer. Bosa had 26 career sacks and is regarded as one of the best pass rushers in this draft. Others have compared him to J.J. Watt. If he can get to 285 and keep his speed and athleticism, I am one who believes he can be a similar type player. Bosa has no rea weaknesses and can be a force versus the run or pass game.

Shaq Lawson – Clemson

The last few years, Clemson has been loaded with excellent defensive linemen and because of that players like Lawson and teammate Kevin Dodd had to wait their turn to be the front line players. It showed this year as Lawson went form 3.5 sacks in 2014 to 12.5 in 2015.

Lawson has an exceptionally quick first step, very good hand use and the bend and flexibility to be a very difficult person to block on passing downs. He also has the instincts and quick reactions to be a force versus the run. At his present size and speed (6027 – 267 – 4.70) he can also play OLB in a 3-4. The only negative I see right now is that it was recently reported that Lawson has to return to Indianapolis in early April for the medical rechecks because of a shoulder injury. Granted he played with the injury all season, but if it is a problem whereas he needs surgery, he could drop a little on draft night. Right now he looks like a solid top 10 selection.

Kevin Dodd – Clemson

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/the-top-five-4-3-defensive-ends-in-the-2016-nfl-draft/
 
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