Welcome to part two of my ongoing series on rookie IDP options. We will be wrapping up on defensive ends today with some quality options that should be available later on in your draft. While these players aren’t athletic marvels or have eye-popping stat lines, they can be developed into contributors for both their NFL teams and your fantasy squad.
A.J. Epenesa, Bills
A.J fell to the Bills in the second round, after some draft pundits projected him to be a late first-round pick. He enters into a good situation in Buffalo, where he can use his talents surrounded by a solid defense. As a run defender, Epenesa is very good. He has a strong build with length to set an edge at the point of attack. In the pass rush, Epenesa flashes the ability to get after the quarterback. He has a strong bull rush and can use his strength to ride tackles right into the quarterback’s lap. He could use some work to refine his pass rush moves, and his mobility is limited. A.J will have to rely on his strength rather than his agility to win at the pro level. Having said that, he should be a solid asset to the Defensive line and offers some inside/outside versatility. He is well worth a pick in the 3rd round in your rookie draft.
Julian Okwara, Lions
Okwara is a tantalizing left end who shows good power and great speed when battling offensive linemen. At 6-foot-4, 252 pounds, Okwara is a plus athlete as an edge rusher and possesses standout reach, with the power to back it up. He didn’t fill up the stat sheet in college, but the physical tools are there for Julian to make an immediate impact. On a defense lacking on impact rushers, Okwara could play an important role right away for the Lions. He has DE2 written all over him, with DE1 upside if he can put it all together and gain some more pass-rushing moves in his toolbox.
Darrell Taylor, Seahawks
Taylor steps in a good situation in Seattle. The release of Jadeveon Clowney opens the door for some pass-rushing opportunities. He is an above-average athlete with an excellent bend, good short-area quickness, and an explosive first step when going after the quarterback. He had 19.5 sacks and 26.5 TFL in college. There are some question marks with him though. He is underdeveloped as a pass-rusher and run defender. His awareness leaves something to be desired. He loses focus at the line of scrimmage and gets lost in the shuffle. I believe that coaching in Seattle will enable him to be a quality contributor, with DE3 upside in fantasy leagues.
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