Daviyon Nixon 2021 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Name: Daviyon Nixon

College: Iowa

Height: 6’3”

Weight: 313 lbs

Overall Rank: DL2

Position Rank: No. 38 overall

Strengths: Line Nixon up in the B-gap and let him go. He’s a natural pass-rusher from the 3-technique position and has a killer first step with NFL starter quickness. Nixon’s ability to shoot through gaps and penetrate the backfield as a rusher is arguably the best in the class. He’s strong enough in terms of lower body strength to anchor in the run game. Iowa asked Nixon to play some nose tackle and he performed well there.The arrow is pointing up on Nixon with just one year of starts under his belt. He has the athleticism to blossom into a more well-rounded starter with extended reps. The 2021 defensive tackle class is light and Nixon is one of the few with the agility, strength and raw speed to be an impact player.

Weaknesses: Just a one year starter at Iowa, Nixon is more of a potential based prospect than one with long-standing production. Can let his aggressiveness and quickness work against him. His ability to stop blockers in the run game can be limited if they get hands on him given average upper-body strength.

What I Love: Natural quickness to shoot through gaps plus the speed to run down ball-carriers from a 300 pounder is pretty dang exciting.

NFL Comparison: Justin Madubuike

Grade: 84/100

Position Specific Traits:
(key: +, ++, +++ positive scale | -, - -, - - - negative scale)

Athletic Ability: +++
Pass Rush: ++
Power Moves: +
Run Defense: +
Speed/Burst: +++
Strength: +