2018 NFL Draft Big Board: Ranking the Top 10 Prospects
By Jon Dove
9. Derrick Nnadi, DT, Florida State
Derrick Nnadi is a versatile defender who is just starting to scratch the surface of his potential. He is the type of defensive lineman who can impact both the running and passing game. It’s his combination of size and quickness that makes him such an attractive prospect.
Florida State mainly asks Nnadi to occupy blockers and hold up at the point of attack. Nnadi accomplishes this task by keeping his pads down, remaining balanced and gaining inside hands.
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His hand usage is key to his success and allows him to control the action. He routinely fires off the ball, rolls his hips and generates a strong initial punch. Nnadi’s punch knocks the blocker off balance and provides him proper positioning.
He then uses his awareness to locate the football and make plays away from his frame. This is where his quickness comes into play as he is able to close on the ball carrier.
Nnadi flashes tons of upside as a pass rusher and overall penetrator. He has the initial burst needed to shoot the gap and work his way into the backfield. However, Nnadi also has the raw power to push the pocket.
There aren’t too many two-way defensive tackles with Nnadi’s upside. He can be a true 3-down defender impacting the run and passing attack.