Commentary

D-line dominates the Big Board

With a pair of new defensive linemen this week, the Board is a defensive dreamscape

Updated: November 10, 2010, 5:21 PM ET
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN.com

At the beginning of the season, when asked where the draft would be deepest, I chose the defensive line. This actually drew some surprised responses, given how deep the defensive line was in last year's class. But if you take a look at today's Board, you'll see that defensive linemen continue to move up the ranks. Even with the departure of Cameron Heyward this week, who despite tremendous talent has simply been far too inconsistent, currently defensive linemen make up exactly 40 percent of the group.

The two newest names this week involve a Pac-10 player whose dad was a Pro Bowl tight end, and a member of what is proving to be a remarkably good group of defensive tackles in the SEC. As always, juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.


Big Board Bar

1
Andrew Luck *
QB
6-4
235

Analysis: His completion percentage up a full 10 points, Luck balances improvement with refinement. Can Buffalo not take him if it's No. 1? Last week: No. 1

2
A.J. Green *
WR
6-4
207

Analysis: Green has proved mostly unstoppable even with a young quarterback who can't always find him. Another showcase opportunity versus Auburn. Last week: No. 2

3
Patrick Peterson *
CB
6-1
211

Analysis: I praised Peterson in this week's Stock Watch; he's more than an athlete. Peterson has continued to improve his technical cover skills. Last week: No. 4

4
Da'Quan Bowers *
DE
6-4
277

Analysis: Back on top with the national lead in TFL, Bowers' 19.5 total in that category is just the icing on the cake. He's a tremendous physical talent as well. Last week: No. 7

5
Prince Amukamara
CB
6-1
202

Analysis: I'd be more concerned about Amukamara's zero interceptions in 2010 if any quarterback was willing to challenge him. Really gifted technician. Last week: No. 3



To see what other moves have been made on the Big Board, you must be an ESPN Insider.

Mel Kiper Jr.

Football analyst
  • ESPN NFL Draft analyst since 1984
  • Contributes to SportsCenter and ESPN Radio
  • Writes weekly for ESPN Insider

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