With the NFL Scouting Combine set to get underway this week in Indianapolis, let's start to take a peek at some of the rankings of the draft prospects at each position. Today, let's check out NFL Network draft expert Mike Mayock's top five players at the defensive tackle position. The notes on each player were provided by NFL.com from their Combine section.
| Mayock's Top 5 Defensive Tackles | |||
| Name | Height | Weight | College |
| 1. Marcell Dareus |
6-3 |
303 |
Alabama |
| Note: Dareus is one of this class' finest prospects. Possesses the athleticism and explosiveness to be consistently disruptive against the run and pass. Hands that don't stop, sheds blockers quickly, and uses the frequently uses the swim move. | |||
| 2. Nick Fairley |
6-5 |
299 |
Auburn |
| Note: Fairley is the top defensive tackle prospect in the 2011 class and projects to be incredibly disruptive against the pass and run. Nightmare to pass protect against. Possesses great burst, hands that never stop moving, brute strength. | |||
| 3. Muhammad Wilkerson |
6-5 |
295 |
Temple |
| Note: Wilkerson is an elite 3-4 defensive end prospect with idea size, excellent shedding ability and the athleticism to pursue from the backside and rush the passer. Jolts offensive lineman at the point of attack, can beat the double team. | |||
| 4. Corey Liuget |
6-3 |
300 |
Illinois |
| Note: Liuget belongs in the discussion with the other elite defensive tackles in this class. Arguably this year's most productive DT against the run and also very active rushing the passer. Fires off the ball, maintains sound positioning. | |||
| 5. Stephen Paea |
6-1 |
311 |
Oregon State |
| Note: Paea is a powerful run stuffer that plays angry and should contribute immediately at the next level. He is as strong as an ox and consistently knocks lineman back on their heels. He takes on double teams. | |||
-- Posted by Chris McPherson, 10:00 p.m., February 22
