Thursday, 14 March 2013 09:18

Written by Gerry Dulac

Former Penn State defensive coordinator Tom Bradley and I rank the top five players at 13 different positions, plus provide the best “sleeper” pick at that position.

Our rankings are based on performances from the NFL scouting combine, discussions with NFL personnel in Indianapolis, plus film review and research.

Today: Defensive tackles

1. Star Lotulelei, Utah (6-3, 311) – Massive and athletic. Has all the tools, but needs to be more consistent. Had heart condition detected at combine which could affect draft position. Has ability to dominate, but tends to play to level of competition. Will be used as three-technique. Projected round: 1
2. Sheldon Richardson, Missouri (6-3, 294) – Maturity is a major question, but possesses all the athletic skills to be big-time player. Played two years at a junior college where he was a dominant player. An every-down player who can play the three-technique and or rush the passer. Projected round: 1
3. Shariff Floyd, Florida (6-3, 297) – Rated by some the top interior lineman in the draft. Versatile, athletic, excellent quickness. Has good hands and uses them for leverage. Big upside. Played every position on the defensive line in college. Projected round: 1
4. John Jenkins, Georgia (6-4, 346) – Could be a nose tackle in a 3-4 defense. Massive and strong with quick feet. Has the potential to be a big-time run stopper. Versatile. Tends to play high and will need to lower his pad level in the NFL. Conditioning is a question mark. Projected round: 2
5. Jonathan Hankins, Ohio State (6-3, 320) – Underclassman with great first step. Moves well for a big man. A tough run defender who is versatile enough to fit into any scheme. Good instincts take him to the ball. Projected round: 2

Sleeper: Brandon Williams, Missouri Southern State (6-1, 335) – A three-time NCAA Division II All-American who was impressive at the Senior Bowl.

Did 38 reps on the 225-pound bench with a 29 ½-inch vertical jump at the combine. Has power and surprising quickness for a big man; quick feet and balance. Reads and reacts well. His stock is on the rise. Projected round: 3

            TOMORROW: Outside linebackers