Welcome to part three in my ongoing series of Rookie IDP options. Today we will look at Defensive Tackles. Tackles are usually the forgotten players in IDP scoring, as most DL scoring is tailor-made for ends. If you have a dedicated DT spot, these players are some options from the incoming rookie class that could make an impact on your roster. A couple of options should even be considered in general DL spots as well. If you are lacking a top-end option on your defensive line, take a shot at these guys later on in your drafts. Let’s take a look at some options.
Derrick Brown, Panthers
Derrick Brown has an immense amount of talent and should be considered on the level of Chase Young. Brown comes in and will start immediately in the Panthers defensive line. In college, he made a habit of making tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Derrick is used to winning with power in college, but he will have to develop a larger repertoire of moves to truly dominate. His 28 rep bench press is impressive. He is the picture of health, as he never missed a game in his college career. In Carolina, he will join DE Brian Burns to form a potentially lethal young tandem. He is the unquestionable DT1 in this class. Spend a late 3rd or early 4th round pick after all the offensive players are taken, and reap the rewards for years to come.
Javon Kinlaw, 49ers
You could make a solid argument that Javon Kinlaw is every bit a valuable commodity as Derrick Brown. Kinlaw’s stats haven’t been the greatest in college, as he accrued just 10 sacks and 65 tackles over his final two years. Kinlaw steps into an amazing situation in San Fransico, as he joins a loaded defensive line. He should start in DeForest Buckner’s old spot, and his natural talent should carry him along as he learns the nuances in the NFL. There are some serious red flags with him, however. He has major injury concerns, as he had a knee injury in college. The question is, how will his knee hold up at the next level? If he is able to remain healthy, he will be a force to be reckoned with. He is the clear DT2 in this class and is worthy of a 4th round pick.
Justin Madubuike, Ravens
Madubuike is a player that has all the physical tools but needs some refinement in his technique. He might have the second-best landing spot for a DT after Kinlaw. He is built to expand upon his natural talent, and grow into a true three-down monster. In his junior year he had 45 tackles and 5.5 sacks, which are decent production. Madubuike should see the field a lot in year one and has plenty of experienced veteran players to lean on and learn from. He had double-digit tackles in each of the last two years of his college career. Any IDP player that is looking into acquiring a defensive tackle, should keep their eyes on Madubuike. A few years in the Baltimore system, surrounded by the likes of Derek Wolfe and Calais Campbell should do wonders for his value. He will cost no more than a 5th pick and will provide solid depth immediately.
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