DT Draft Prospects

N Barnett Dec. 13, 2006

1) *Alan Branch, 6'6" 325 lbs, Michigan

Branch is a huge force on the defensive line. His massive size gives him the ability to play DT or DE in either the 4-3 or the 3-4 defense which definetly helps his stock. Played in every game of his collegiate career which began as a true fresman. Tremendous upside and should go very early in the draft, if he declares.

NFL pro comparison: Richard Seymour

2) Quinn Pitcock, 6'3" 295 lbs, Ohio State

Maybe not the best DT in the draft, but Pitcock is a true DT who has alot of potential. Very good size combined with excellent speed. Pitcock also have very good strength. Often double team often to contain him. Talented player who has the skills to dominate in the NFL. Stock should rise greatly after the combine.

NFL pro comparison: Tommie Harris

3) Frank Okam, 6'5" 315 lbs, Texas

While his numbers won't blow you away, Okam is in the same mold of Alan Branch. He too has the ability to play either DT or DE in either the 4-3 or 3-4 defense. A smart guy who has the potential to be very good player some day. Good run stuffer who excels at knocking down passes when he gets in the passing lanes.

NFL pro comparison: Luis Castillo

4) DeMarcus Tyler, 6'2" 305 lbs, NC State

A holdover on the defensive line that produced 3 first round picks last season. Tyler is a very good run stopper who makes plays in the backfield. Not as polished but has good potential. Conditioning and ability are a concern since he has been surrounded by very good talent. Skills might be better suited for the cover 2 defense. Is he the next Ryan Sims?

NFL pro comparison: Rocky Bernard

5) Marcus Thomas, 6'3" 295 lbs, Florida

One of the best passing rushing DTs in the draft. Thomas has the size and the speed to get upfield and makes plays behind the line. Very experienced and durable. Thomas's stock will likely rise come April. Has room to get even bigger, might see some action at DE.

NFL pro comparison: Warren Sapp

6) Amobi Okoye, 6'0" 313 lbs, Louisville

Underrated play who is a terrific run stopper. Okoye has a tremendous upside and the ability to become an elite DT in the NFL. Still learning the game, he needs to keep his weight up and work on strength. The youngest player in the draft at age 19. An immigrant from Nigeria.

NFL pro comparison: Dewayne Robertson

7) Justin Harrell, 6'4" 300 lbs, Tennessee

Entered the season as one of the nation's top DT prospects. But a torn bicep early in the 2006 season sidelined him for year. A great combination of speed, size, and strength could make him a huge steal in the draft. Look for Harrell to start getting the reconization that he deserves.

NFL pro comparison: Ty Warren

8) Brandon Mebane, 6'3" 295 lbs, California

Mebane is solid player who has some potential become better. Has been a good collegiate pass rusher but migh be a better run stuffer in the NFL due to his lack up speed. He has a good motor shows excellent effort but will need to bulk up.

NFL pro comparison: Tommy Kelly

9) *Glenn Dorsey, 6'2" 300 lbs, LSU

A high moter, high effort player who is very stong. Dorsey has played very well in his reserve role the last few years and has added muscle this season, his 1st real starting action. He has very good technique and is a good talent, though he will likely return to school where he will be one of the top DTs next season.

NFL pro comparison: La'Roi Glover

10) Kareem Brown, 6'5" 312 lbs, Miami (FL)

Brown is a very good sack artist. For a guy his size he moves very well. Lacks experience but has the skills needed to succed in the NFL. An all around solid player who has good ball awareness. A team player who could be pretty successful in the next level.

NFL pro comparison: Fred Robbins

* Underclassmen eligible for 2007 NFL draft