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 end position. The notes on each player were provided by NFL.com from their Combine section.
| Mayock's Top 5 Defensive Ends | |||
| Name | Height | Weight | College |
| 1. Da'Quan Bowers |
6-4 |
280 |
Clemson |
| Note: Bowers has the ability to become a franchise NFL defensive end with the potential to dominate against the run and pass. Appears capable of playing DE in different front alignments or inside at defensive tackle in pass rushing situations. | |||
| 2. Robert Quinn |
6-5 |
254 |
North Carolina |
| Note: Quinn did not play a down in 2010, but he has the potential to be a premier pass rusher at the next level. He has an excellent first step and the burst to consistently get around the edge. He is a relentless pass rusher. | |||
| 3. J.J. Watt |
6-6 |
279 |
Wisconsin |
| Note: Watt is an ideal fit as a strong side 4-3 defensive end but some may like him more as a 3-4 end. A hard-working, intelligent, relentless player but does not have elite fluidity or burst. Uses his hands extremely well to get off blocks. | |||
| 4. Adrian Clayborn |
6-4 |
285 |
Iowa |
| Note: Clayborn has the ability to be a very good starting defensive end in a 3-4 or 4-3 front and can play some defensive tackle in passing situations. Smart, instinctual player, especially against the run. | |||
| 5. Cameron Jordan |
6-4 |
283 |
California |
| Note: Jordan is one of the higher-probability, game-ready prospects in this class. He's an ideal fit as a 3-4 defensive end but could also serve as a strongside DE in a four-man front. Really a good fit for any team that stresses gap integrity. | |||
-- Posted by Chris McPherson, 4:30 p.m., February 22
