2021 NFL Draft: Daviyon Nixon can be a force on Raiders defensive interior
By CJ Errickson
Why is Nixon an ideal fit for the Raiders?
The Las Vegas Raiders should be thrilled to know that Iowa’s Daviyon Nixon is arguably the most athletic interior defensive lineman in the 2021 NFL draft.
The former Hawkeye stands at 6’3″ and weighs approximately 305 lbs. He displays incredibly explosive short-area quickness for someone his size, both horizontally and vertically. His ability to finish and apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks is second to none, but he is also a stout run defender.
Nixon also possesses strong hands that enable him to utilize his quickness against larger opposing offensive linemen. He projects favorably as an every-down 3-technique defensive lineman who the Raiders desperately need.
Of course, not every prospect is completely polished.
Nixon possesses adequate strength, but a proper NFL strength program should not be any challenge. He will also have to adjust to some of the more complex NFL blocking schemes, but he is an individual who bears relentless effort and energy that both coaches and teammates respect.
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In conclusion, the most recent Big 10 Defensive Player of the Year may be an unfamiliar name to some; but it is not out of the question that the Raiders front office thinks highly of him already. Expect his name to be called upon early in the 2021 NFL draft and for Las Vegas to potentially acquire, arguably, the best defensive tackle in the entire draft class.