Defensive Line
It’s a down year for the interior defensive line group. There just isn’t a ton of depth or a large group of prospects with high upside. Jonathan Allen by far the top prospect in this group and only sure-fire 1st round pick.
He’s a power player who can hold at the point of attack but also rush the passer. His draft stock has taken a little hit thanks to issues with his shoulders. However, he should hear his named called within the top-20 picks.
Caleb Brantley is a talented player who would’ve been a 2nd round pick if he didn’t have a run in with the law. At this point, it’s hard to see a scenario where he’s drafted before the 5th or 6th round.
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
Malik McDowell’s draft stock has plummeted thanks to his lack of effort. He has the talent to be a dominant player, but seems disinterested most of the time. NFL coaches can’t stand players who don’t give 100% effort.
1. Jonathan Allen, Alabama
2. Malik McDowell, Michigan State
3. Caleb Brantley, Florida
4. Carlos Watkins, Clemson
5. Chris Wormley, Michigan
6. Montravius Adams, Auburn
7. Jaleel Johnson, Iowa
8. Dalvin Tomlinson, Alabama
9. Larry Ogunjobi, Charlotte
10. Stevie Tu’Ikolovatu, USC
11. Vincent Taylor, Oklahoma State
12. Eddie Vanderdoes, UCLA
13. Elijah Qualls, Washington
14. DeAngelo Brown, Louisville
15. Nazair Jones, North Carolina
16. Charles Walker, Oklahoma
17. Ryan Glasgow, Michigan
18. Tanzel Smart, Tulane
19. Jarron Jones, Notre Dame