Post Combine: Dante Fowler, Randy Gregory, or Vic Beasley?
By Luke Sims
Randy Gregory, Dante Fowler, and Vic Beasley both offer some serious pass rushing ability for teams in need of a consistent, dependable pass rusher. They proved this in college and after some great work at the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine, they remain the top three pass rushers available. That’s great for teams sitting in prime position to pick up either of the two players. It’s especially great for the Jacksonville Jaguars who can afford to take either or, depending if they are able to trade back or not.
The Jags put up good sack numbers in 2014, but they will really need consistent pressure from a young pass rusher to take their defensive line to the next level. With strong defensive tackles Sen’Derrick Marks and Roy Miller locked in as centerpieces for the defensive line, this young player can rely on his athleticism to get to the quarterback as a dedicated pass rusher.
Nov 22, 2014; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Dante Fowler Jr. (6) against the Eastern Kentucky Colonels during the first quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Let’s start with the new king, Dante Fowler Jr.
Fowler was exceptional at the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine. The outside linebacker out of Florida jumped up draft boards with impressive performances overall but particularly with a 4.60 40-yard dash and was reportedly great in interviews as well. Fowler has all the physical tools to develop into a premiere pass rusher in the NFL and teams are on notice. Daniel Jeremiah has him listed as his fourth overall prospect following the combine.
He’s well worth a strong look from the Jaguars as he could come in and immediately lead the team in pressures, hurries, and sacks. The big question is whether his physical tools are worth taking a shot on at number three overall. Todd McShay is confident in his physical tools and recently mocked him to the Jags. His athleticism along with his large size (261 lbs, 6’3″) are the major draw here.
Next: Is Randy Gregory Still Worth a Top-3 Pick?