After previewing the East Coast the last few weeks, we’re turning our attention inland to take a look at the Big Ten. The Midwest has been a disappointment in terms of collegiate play the last few years, and this year has seen it bottom out (hopefully). That said, Ohio State features a lot of NFL talent and there are a few isolated gems in this wasteland of a conference. Today’s focus is on defense.
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DL: Ra’Shede Hageman, Minnesota
Arguably the best draft prospect in the Big Ten, Taylor Lewan included, Hageman has the frame and talent reminiscent of former Alabama standout Marcell Dareus. Hageman has a great first step off the line, and is one of the best pass rushing and run stopping DT prospects in this year’s draft.
DL: DaQuan Jones, Penn State
A big 4-3 defensive tackle, Jones excels in both rushing off the edge and stopping the run up the middle. Jones has the strength and athleticism to be a versatile player any NFL team, and should be the next Nittany Lion to make an impact in someone’s front seven on Sundays.
DL: Bruce Gaston, Purdue
A defensive lineman with a very solid collegiate resume, Gaston fits best as a one- technique on an NFL defensive line. Despite decent athleticism, Gaston struggles to put pressure on the QB; however, he can play the run quite well.
DL: Beau Allen, Wisconsin
Allen has the size and strength you would look for in a nose tackle. His lack of athleticism is somewhat disappointing, even for a man his size, and weight stability may also be an issue for the NFL team that takes him.
LB: Max Bullough, Michigan State
A third-generation Spartan, Bullough is a very underrated prospect in my view, though his upside in the NFL may be a touch limited. Bullough has outstanding instincts in run support and pass coverage, which helps mask his average athleticism.
LB: Ryan Shazier,* Ohio State
A rush linebacker in a safety’s body, Shazier is a gifted athletic talent who excels at two of the more coveted linebacker skills in today’s NFL: pass coverage, and pass rushing. Shazier has the versatility to play the weak side in a 4-3 scheme, similar to Von Miller, or as an inside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme like Daryl Washington.
LB: Chris Borland, Wisconsin
A short, stocky linebacker, Borland plays with the heart of a more-disciplined Vontaze Burfict. Borland lacks the athletic stopwatch talent to rise up draft boards during the offseason, but has outstanding instincts and can contribute on run downs and can get after the quarterback if needed.
CB: Darqueze Dennard, Michigan State
A player whose strength and physicality belie his even above-average size, Dennard is an ideal corner for a predominately press coverage team. Dennard possesses great instincts and technique, but lacks good long speed, which could hinder his ability to develop into an elite NFL corner.
CB: Bradley Roby,* Ohio State
An incredibly frustrating player, Roby oozes physical talent but is still far too raw for the NFL. He would be eaten alive by veteran QBs if he were to play at the level he has this college season. Roby has the most potential as a press zone corner, but will need to harness his raw speed, burst, and strength in order to be even a decent pro. Having already declared for the 2014 draft, Roby has a lot to prove during the offseason.
S: Dez Southward, Wisconsin
Not afraid to play the run and deliver a big hit, Southward may not have quite the appeal to NFL teams that he might have had just three years ago, due to the current increase in penalties for hitting offensive players. Southward will need to work on his coverage and ball skills to have a chance.
S: C.J. Barnett, Ohio State
A veteran safety for the Buckeyes, Barnett is stronger playing the pass than the run. Difficulty staying 100% healthy will likely limit him to the later rounds, or as an undrafted free agent.
Missed the cut:
DL: Ethan Hemer, Wisconsin
LB: Denicos Allen, Michigan State
LB: Jonathan Brown, Illinois
LB: James Morris, Iowa
LB: Ricardo Allen, Purdue
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