2016 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings - DL
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theScore's draft prospect rankings are compiled by NFL editor Dan Wilkins. A list of top players available within each position group can be found at the links below.
Offense
QB | RB | WR | TE | OL
Defense
EDGE | DL | LB | CB | S
Interior Defensive Line
| Rank | Player | School |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | DeForest Buckner | Oregon |
| 2 | Sheldon Rankins | Louisville |
| 3 | Andrew Billings | Baylor |
| 4 | Chris Jones | Mississippi State |
| 5 | Vernon Butler | Louisiana Tech |
| 6 | Jonathan Bullard | Florida |
| 7 | Jarran Reed | Alabama |
| 8 | Robert Nkemdiche | Ole Miss |
| 9 | A'Shawn Robinson | Alabama |
| 10 | Kenny Clark | UCLA |
- A dominant interior presence, DeForest Buckner is quite easily one of the most talented players in this draft. He has the frame and skill set to be a fit for a variety of positions in any defensive scheme, and particularly in the 5-technique spot in a 3-4 front. Buckner should be an impact player against the run and as a pass-rusher.
- Sheldon Rankins is smaller than the prototypical defensive tackle, but so were Geno Atkins and Aaron Donald. His strength at the point of attack will make him a force against the run, and he has the skill set to become a productive pass-rusher at the 3-technique. A combination of explosiveness and lateral quickness will allow Rankins to make quick work of guards in one-one-one situations.
- Landing in the right situation would go a long way toward helping Robert Nkemdiche reach his sky-high ceiling as a prospect. But with his production still yet to match his potential, and off-field concerns undoubtedly factoring into his stock around the league, he could be in for a slide as part of a loaded defensive line class.