Mike Mayock's Top Five
Jonathan Allen
6-3, 286, Alabama
Was a dominant force up and down the Crimson Tide's defensive front over the last two seasons, piling up 22.5 sacks and 30.5 tackles for loss. Winner of the Bronko Nagurski Trophy this past season as the nation's best defensive player, Allen was used in multiple roles in Alabama's 3-4 defense and could be a consideration as a 4-3 defensive end – particularly in a base defense.
Caleb Brantley
6-3, 307, Florida
More of a prototypical defensive tackle, equipped to serve as a space-eater against the run and as a pocket pusher against the pass. As such his stats were pedestrian, with his impact more felt by how he set up the rest of the defense to make plays. Even so, he did tie for the team lead with 8.5 tackles for loss last season.
Malik McDowell
6-6, 295, Michigan State
A 4-3 defensive tackle in college who could shift to defensive end at times in the NFL, McDowell was a handful in 2015 but took a step back last season. Helped propel the Spartans into the playoffs in 2015 with 13 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks but was quieter in 2016 with seven tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks – though an ankle injury did cost him some time.
Larry Ogunjobi
6-3, 305, Charlotte
Poised to become the first player in his school's four seasons of football to be drafted, and he could be drafted before the second round is complete. A steady presence for each of those four seasons, racking up 49.5 tackles for loss (at least 9.5 every season) and 13 sacks.
Chris Wormley
6-5, 298, Michigan
A player with defensive tackle size who played primarily at defensive end – and was productive in that role. Amassed 12.5 sacks and 23.5 tackles for loss over his final two seasons. A student of the game and a natural leader named a team captain as a senior.
Look back: Defensive tackles taken around No. 8
2014: Aaron Donald, 13th overall to Rams
2013: Star Lotulelei, 14th overall to Panthers
2009: B.J. Raji, 9th overall to Packers
2007: Amobi Okoye, 10th overall to Texans
2002: John Henderson, 9th overall to Jaguars
