2017 NFL Draft: Top 5 Interior Defensive Linemen

Jaleel Johnson – 6’3″ 316 lbs. – Iowa

Jaleel Johnson is a household name among Big Ten football fans, as he likely wrecked their favorite team’s offense at one point or another.

He was a 4-star recruit and the no. 18 ranked defensive tackle in the 2012 class.

Strengths:

At the position, Jaleel is the best technician in the draft. He knows the nuances of the position, where to be gap, what gap he is supposed to control, and how to attack linemen.

His motor is excellent and keeps humming to the whistle. He’s a big boy, but he can skinny to fight through a gap. His quick hands often find their mark, and he has great arm extension against the run.

Johnson drives back offensive linemen better than anyone, hitting their chest with power and hand placement. He understands leverage and how to use it.

Johnson has a decent arm over move that he can win with off the jump. He’s a bully ball type player, loves contact and gets off blocks consistently.

Weaknesses:

Jaleel didn’t test well at the combine, so there are questions about his athleticism. He doesn’t have the closing speed or stride to beat angles, and his balance through contact is lacking.

He’ll sometimes lose leverage trying to peek into the backfield, and lacks the anchor needs to hold up against double teams. His snap anticipation is solid but he has an average first step. Doesn’t win as early with consistency.

Overall:

Great player that coaches will love due to his technique and high football IQ. It’s just a matter of what his upside is — high floor, low ceiling.

Film Score: 77

Athleticism Score: 6.8 (Below NFL average)

Final Score: 75 (Round 1 or 2)