CLEVELAND- The 2021 NFL draft will start in less than 2 weeks. It’s time to talk about 2 pass rushers who are sure to put pressure on quarterbacks and accumulate a lot of QB sacks in the process. These two standouts will improve any NFL defense. Alabama’s Christian Barmore and USC’s Jay Tufele are rising up draft boards. After watching film on both of them, it’s easy to see why defensive coordinators want to draft one of them. When we think of physical defensive tackles, legends such as Pittsburgh Steelers Mean Joe Greene (1969-1980), Cleveland Browns and Denver Broncos Michael Dean Perry (1988-1997) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers Warren Sapp (1995-2007) come to mind right away
Barmore brings that tenacious style of play and flat out takes offensive lineman down on his way to the quarterback. His bull rush could keep offensive lineman, quarterbacks, and offensive coordinators awake the night before a game since he looks like a one-man wrecking crew. He has excellent pursuit and quickness as well. Barmore is an explosive playmaker who should be among the league leaders in sacks as early as this season. He will force quarterbacks to make quick decisions. Barmore not only has first-round talent but looks like he’ll be a starter week one. Barmore generates as much hype and excitement as Javon Kinlaw and Derrick Brown.
Tufele isn’t quite as dominant as Barmore but could get the call between rounds 2-4. According to NFL.com, some scouts think he needs to mature more but he is a disruptive force against the passing game. He needs to work on his block shedding technique but he is quick to get to the quarterback once he successfully sheds a block. He is athletic, quick, and has the versatility to disrupt the passing and running game. His pursuit angles and closing speed are both outstanding. He needs to keep his shoulders and head upright but with some technique adjustments, he should be ready to be a starter week one.
Predictions-
Christian Barmore could help the Chiefs out quite a bit. He would excel alongside Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones. Kansas City may turn the attention to upgrading the defense after the struggles against Tampa Bay in the Super Bowl.
Barmore- First round, 31st overall pick- Kansas City Chiefs
Jay Tufele may be a late second or a third-round steal for a team that really needs a pass disruptor on the defensive line. Although it may take a tough Head Coach to get the most out of him, Tufule has a chance to impact a defensive line right away as a starter at some point this season.
Tufele- Third round, 89th overall selection- Cleveland Browns
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