2016 NFL Draft Big Board: December Update
By Jon Dove
Oct 18, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Justin Worley (14) advances the ball while being chased by Mississippi Rebels defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche (5) during the game at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports
4. Robert Nkemdiche, DL, Ole Miss
Ole Miss’s Robert Nkemdiche is a really unique player because of his potential to fill multiple roles. He features a rare combination of size, quickness and strength. Nkemdiche could potentially fit any spot along the defensive line.
However, his best attribute is his explosive first-step off the line of scrimmage. He’s a very disruptive player who lives in the offensive backfield. Nkemdiche excels at beating the blocker off the ball and shooting the gap.
This skill set makes him a strong candidate to play the 3-technique position in the NFL. However, he also shows a lot of the traits needed to bump outside to the 5-technique. In both positions, he’d be asked to anchor against the run and make plays behind the line of scrimmage.
This type of versatility will be extremely beneficial come draft time because it doesn’t limit to specific systems or the teams running them.
The Detroit Lions make a lot of sense for Nkemdiche because of their need for interior pressure. This team has struggled to replace Ndamukong Suh and his ability to get in the face of the quarterback. Nkemdiche would help fill that void and be the perfect partner alongside Haloti Ngata.
Dallas is another potential landing spot as they could use an elite talent to play the 3-technique in their Tampa-2 system.
Next: No. 5 Jared Goff