Top 10 Positional - Defense

With just about a month left until the NFL Draft it’s time to start putting the finishing touches on big boards and positional rankings. This week we’re looking at the top defensive players at each position and how I have them ranked. Enjoy!

Edge

1. Will Anderson Jr., Alabama

2. Tyree Wilson, Texas Tech

3. Nolan Smith, Georgia

4. Myles Murphy, Clemson

5. Lukas Van Ness, Iowa

6. Will McDonald IV, Iowa State

7. Isaiah Foskey, Notre Dame

8. Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Kansas State

9. BJ Ojulari, LSU

10. Derick Hall, Auburn

First Round Talent: (5-6) Will Anderson, Tyree Wilson, Nolan Smith, Myles Murphy, Lukas Van Ness

I view the top five guys as first-rounders and even like Will McDonald IV a lot too. The top end talent at edge this year may be one of the deepest I can remember. Even Tyree Wilson would be getting a ton of love in a normal year without Will Anderson. I could see Wilson going top 10 as the second best edge rusher. 

Depth: This position has a TON of depth! If it’s not the deepest position group it’s the second. Easily. There are guys outside my top 10 that I would consider in the second to third round! If your team needs and edge rusher - they all do - then this is your draft!

Sleepers: Speaking of Will McDonald - I thought he was going to be my sleeper prospect until someone named Mel Kiper put him in the first round of his mock draft a few weeks ago. McDonald checks all the boxes with his size, speed and production - don’t be surprised if this “sleeper” works his way into the first round. Others: Isaiah Foskey and Felix Anudike-Uzomah