Flashy defensive plays were visible nationwide this week and highlight reel moments were abundant. Out of the many defensive masterpieces, here are a few players who earned the title of Defensive NFL Draft Risers.
Physically Imposing Defenders Drive Defensive NFL Draft Risers For Week 10
DB Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State
Igbinosun is widely recognized as one of the most physically intimidating corners in the country. Like most similar CBs, his main issue remains a high level of holding penalties and pass interference calls. Those problems were nonexistent against Penn State this week, allowing under 30 yards and making one of the most impressive interceptions of the year; ripping the ball away from a Nittany Lions receiver in the endzone.
The Ohio State defender blended aggressiveness and technique perfectly in the week’s biggest game. NFL Scouts will be all over Igbinosun for his ideal frame and mental/physical tools this draft cycle. He needs to sure up a few aspects of his game but the raw traits are certainly there. Igbinosun’s draft stock could skyrocket with more elite play as the Buckeyes continue to push for the College Football Playoff.
Potential Team Fit: Buffalo Bills
EDGE David Bailey, Stanford
Bailey had the NC State offense under duress all night and eviscerated multiple potential chunk plays. His two sacks and two forced fumbles were all bunched together and were one of few Stanford bright spots. More important than the explosive moments, he played a consistently good game; something his draft profile has been severely lacking.
Many have speculated on whether or not Bailey should declare for the draft, but his recent performances should sway those talks. His versatility and fantastic athleticism should garner a lot of interest from scouts. His knowledge of the game and pass-rush repertoire need to be fleshed out, but his talent is undeniable. If he continues to flash the high-level ceiling that many have projected he possesses, there’s no telling how high he could be picked.
Potential Team Fit: Denver Broncos
DB Chandler Rivers, Duke
Despite Duke’s high-scoring loss to Miami, Rivers was flying around the field and making plays left and right. He held 6’4” Isaiah Horton to zero receptions and allowed just two grabs for 14 yards on eight targets. He displayed the ability to impact the game at all levels and play much bigger than his listed size.
Rivers projects as a slot corner in the NFL and is another player who could return in 2025 to improve his stock. If he were to enter, games like this would get him drafted and given chances to succeed. He electrifies a secondary and can make plays that many others of his stature wouldn’t be able to. With the influx of top wideouts moving to the slot, the need for Rivers could lead to an early declaration.
Potential Team Fit: Houston Texans
EDGE Mike Green, Marshall
The Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Week, Green was simply unstoppable against UL Monroe. He racked up two sacks and 3.5 tackles-for-loss to pair with nine tackles and a forced fumble. He has been putting together a second straight top-tier season and is showing zero signs of letting up. His 92.4 PFF grade was easily Marshall’s highest of the week and the tape matches the stat line.
Green has an exciting blend of technical prowess and high-upside traits that the NFL has continued to value. His production will have to outweigh the worries about his size, and his performance against ULM perfectly embodied that hope. Already gaining interest from the Reese’s Senior Bowl, Green’s skills could be showcased on a much larger scale soon.
Potential Team Fit: New England Patriots
Main Photo: [Adam Cirans/Columbus Dispatch] – USA Today Sports
