Arizona Cardinals: 3 defensive lineman to target in round one

Kevin Dodd, Defensive end, Clemson 

While the prized prospect from Clemson that everyone wants is Shaq Lawson, Kevin Dodd should be talked about just as much. In his first year as a starter, Dodd finished the season with 60 total tackles and 12 sacks. Three of these sacks came against Alabama in the Nation Championship game. When there’s a lot on the line, Dodd seems to be able to deliver, which is a trait that is extremely coveted at the NFL level.

At 6’5″ and 227 lbs, Dodd has the size to overpower offensive lineman and disrupt. With his size also comes versatility as Dodd can switch from being a speed rusher to a power rusher on any given play. In addition to his athleticism (Dodd ran a 4.86 40 yard dash), the red shirt junior out of Clemson has a high football IQ and rarely falls victim to the various types of trick and gadget plays you see in the league today. Dodd has a high motor and seems to know where the ball is at all times.

On the flip side, Dodd has only played one season as a full time starter and it becomes a question as to whether he can continue this sort of production in the NFL. Dodd has also been noted to over commit on a play, or make a move too quickly, which may come back to burn the defense. He has yet to be able to harness all his strength and speed, but this should be easily fixable with help from defensive coaches and veterans on the team.

His physical talent and high ceiling should be more than enough to convince the Cardinals brass to draft Kevin Dodd 29th overall.