The Raiders may be without their top 3 2012 Defensive Tackels in 2013 as Richard Seymour and Desmond Bryant are both free agents and Tommy Kelly is thought a likely cap casualty. The only DT from 2013 that is sure to be on the roster is 2nd year player Christo Bilukidi.
Therefore, the Raiders are going to be in the market for at least 1 and probably more like 2 DTs in free agency and the draft.
Here is a look at the 5 best defensive tackles in the 2013 NFL Draft:
1.Star Lotulelei 6’3 320 lbs Utah
Possibly my #1 prospect in the entire draft, Star Lotulelei is a violent football player. He shows good burst and uses it to put linemen on their heels. He also has good strength at the point of attack and moves extremely well in space for a man his size. I Believe Star could line up inside in any front and could also line up at 5-tech (outside at DE) in a 3-4.
Pro Comparison: Haloti Ngata
2. Sheldon Richardson 6’3 295 lbs Missouri
Elite burst, agility and suddenness make Richardson an elite prospect at DT. Richardson can play at most any position along the defensive line except as a true 3-4 nose tackle. He has violent hands in both areas of his game and a good motor but his off field baggage could hold him back.
Pro Comparison: Kevin Williams
3. Jesse Williams 6’3 325 lbs Alabama
Williams is a bonus in that he will fit well as a Nose Tackle but he also has the ability to slide out to DE in 3-4. A stout run defender with little pass rush, I grade out Williams better then former KC 1st round pick Dontari Poe so it will be interesting to see where he lands.
Pro Comparison: Sione Pouha
4. Johnathan Hankins 6’4 320 lbs Ohio State
A big big man that can move exceptionally well for a man his size, Hankins rarely gets pushed off of the ball and can hold his own against double teams. I’d like to see him improve his leverage and footwork as he sometimes gets sucked into blockers and redirected easily. The team that drafts him will want to start from the basics and build up his technique but front offices will love his upside and his size and natural talent may net him a top 10 selection.
Pro Comparison: Vince Wilfork
5. John Jenkins 6’3 350 lbs Georgia
The biggest guy on this list, Jenkins may be the best pure Nose tackle in the draft. He has the size to fill gaps and is also able to move surprisingly well. I would like to see more of a motor from Jenkins as he flashes hot and cold at times. If he can lose some of the extra weight he doesn’t need (which could be affecting his motor) and show he’s able to give more consistency, a 3-4 team looking for a nose tackle will be smart to pick Jenkins.
Pro Comparison: Barry Cofield
For more thoughts on the Raiders or the 2013 NFL Draft follow Tyler on Twitter @Raiderpedia
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