The mass exodus from LSU has continued, though this time, the players declaring aren't unexpected. After having six players declare already, including an under-used running back and a punter, three defensive linemen leaving for the NFL from LSU shouldn't be much of a surprise.
Despite all three (maybe Logan the least of them) not playing as dominant as expected in the pre-season, Barkevious Mingo, Sam Montgomery, and Bennie Logan are all leaving the LSU defensive line for the NFL, per Joe Schad of ESPN via Twitter.
Here's what our SEC scout Alex Brown had to say about all three now declared juniors:
"As talented and intriguing as he is confusing, Barkevious Mingo is still rough around the edges as a prospect. While his length, suddenness and athleticism are undeniable, Mingo’s inability to finish the play remains a mystery for scouts, as he showcases a “plus” skill set off the snap. Mingo has the rare balance, bend and burst to develop into a dominant pass rusher, yet he too often disappears versus the run or takes himself upfield and out of the play. Another year in school would have served him well, but it appears Mingo is well on his way to a first round selection, as one of the more talented pass rushers in a relatively weak draft class."
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"Bulking up to 260 pounds, Montgomery drives with his lower half very well and exhibits a power rushing skill set. Quick to fire his hips and hands upwards to create a snap at the point of attack, Montgomery understands how to win the leverage battle and collapse the pocket. Montgomery, though lacking an elite first step off the edge, should make a living as a 4-3 defensive end, anchoring versus the run and getting after the quarterback."
"Another highly talented junior defensive prospect for LSU is defensive tackle Bennie Logan. Able to win with first step burst and explosion, Logan possesses rare suddenness and quick twitch athleticism for his size. Normally Logan will turn his shoulders and skinny through the hole with a rip or swim move, but also knows to get his hands up to cover a passing lane when unable to win off the snap. Though he struggles to finish plays in the backfield after an impressive get-off, Logan does a nice job of disrupting run flow and allowing his teammates to rally for the tackle. Not quite a first round talent in my eyes but a likely high day two pick."
At this point, I'd probably rank Montgomery the best of the bunch, Mingo a close second (but with more upside), and Logan rounding out the crew. But the fact that, despite none of three really developing into Top 10 picks (at least in our opinion) as they have all flashed before, all three could be 1st round pick is a testament to just how tremendous the LSU defensive line product has become.
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