Ole Miss’s Robert Nkemdiche is an elite-level prospect who has a chance to be a top-5 pick. He’s a versatile defender because he’s capable of playing along the interior and edge of the defensive line. An argument could be made that he’s the top defensive prospect in this draft.
His best attribute is his ability to disrupt the offense’s flow. He routinely works his way into the backfield generating tackles for loss and sacks. Nkemdiche features great short-area burst that allows him to both shoot past the blocker and make plays away from his frame.
This isn’t just a finesse player, as Nkemdiche is capable of holding up against the run and getting a push on the pocket. He features natural strength which is enhanced by his commitment to using inside hands and leverage.
More from With the First Pick
- 2024 NFL Draft: Prospect Viewing Guide for Week 0
- 2024 NFL Draft: All Eyes On NFL Draft Defensive Prospects
- Player Spotlight: USC Safety Calen Bullock
- 2024 Senior Bowl Watchlist Announced
- 2024 NFL Draft: Florida State is Loaded with Prospect in 2023
This clip shows Nkemdiche firing off the ball, using his strength to hold his ground and quickness to make the play in the backfield:
The sky is the limit when it comes to Nkemdiche’s potential. He’s the type of disruptive force capable to consistently making impact plays. His combination of size and quickness makes him a fit for multiple schemes. However, his best fit might be as a 5-technique in a 3-4 attack that allows him to shift inside on passing downs.
While the future is bright, Nkemdiche needs to work on several things to round into form. He has a poor habit of turning his back to the play in what appears to be a failed spin move. However, it’s possible that this could be a stamina problem.
This clip shows Nkemdiche turning his back into the blockers and thus taking himself out of the play:
The reason I brought up stamina is because there are too many situations where Nkemdiche appears to be playing with a lack of tenacity. He will give up on plays that are away from his side of the field and rarely chases the ball carrier from behind.
NFL evaluators want to see defensive players attack the football until the whistle blows. The only time where some leeway is considered is if the player has been on the field a ton and looks fatigued.
Nkemdiche has too much talent to have some questions about his motor to have a major impact on his draft stock. However, the NFL has seen its share of talented players fizzle out due to a lack of effort.
Current Draft Stock: Top-5 Pick