It’s nearly impossible to read or listen to anything about the draft without seeing a mention of standout DEs like Da’Quan Bowers or Robert Quinn. But while both of these players have headline grabbing, don’t let yourself forget that there are several other DEs in this year’s draft that have the potential to be standout players in the NFL for years to come.
J.J. Watt, a versatile DE from Wisconsin, just may be one of the best players in this draft when it’s all said and done.
It took only two years at Wisconsin for Watt to prove to NFL scouts that he was ready to play at the next level. Watt was productive in his two seasons at Wisconsin, especially his junior season, recording 43 tackles and seven sacks. He played exceptionally well against Ohio State, where pressured Terrelle Pryor repeatedly and sacked him twice.
Physically, Watt is just about everything you’d want in a DE. He has outstanding size (6’6, 293 lbs) and ran faster than he looked on tape at the combine. He is very strong, and when he gets low he uses that strength to do a good job of pushing OLs backwards. He does need to work on getting leverage more consistently, as he often gets too high. He has an adequate burst off the snap but he isn’t going to make a living blowing past OTs. Watt is also very durable, never missing a game while at Wisconsin.
When watching film of Watt, what stands out the most is the effort his puts into every play. Watt has a relentless motor that never stops until right when the whistle blows. Watt has the type of work ethic that you would want all 53 guys on your roster to have.
While Watt’s motor is undoubtedly a plus, it does become problematic at times. Watt occasionally will misread a play or over pursue, leaving himself out of position. This aspect of his game was shown most often against mobile QBs when he sometimes struggled with containment.
One thing Watt brings to the table that many other DEs in this class don’t is great versatility. Watt began his career playing tight end at Central Michigan before transferring to Wisconsin. He won’t be an every down TE in the NFL but definitely could contribute in goal line situations. While at Wisconsin Watt played DE, DT, and blocked 4 kicks on special teams.
While Watt’s versatility will allow him to play DE in either a 43 or a 34 defense, it is Optimum Scouting’s Ehab Sukkar’s opinion that he would be best suited as a 34 DE, but could produce at a high level as a 43 DE too. With his exceptional size, Watt could also contribute as a DT in some situations.
Overall, Watt’s combination of size, strength, motor, and intangibles make him a player that would be worthy of a top ten pick. His lack of great speed and experience at DE may cause him to drop to later in the first round, but it is unlikely that whichever team drafts him will regret their decision, as they will be drafting a playmaker and leader for their team for years to come.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
