There has been nobody in this draft that I’ve seen more mixed reviews than DDS. I loved the pick and thought it was incredible value, because based on reading on him I would’ve been fine with him at 52. Now we have him at 120 and I’m ecstatic but I’m very confused on how he was there that late. We’re talking about someone with a great frame (6’5 260 33” arms), elite athleticism(elite grades on 40, broad, vert, and 3cone), and good production (17 sacks and 25 TFLs 24 and 25). There are players with less athleticism and less productions that were drafted significantly higher than him. Why was he available here?
I’ve seen sources that say he has low upside pass rushing which doesn’t make sense considering his athleticism. People have said he’ll come in and be a solid run defender at least, and others have said he’ll be a better pass rusher than run defender to start out. People have said he needs significant work on his pass rusher arsenal (the only take I agree with).
This was a pick I was so excited about because I think at the very least he can compete with sorrell for edge 2 until Micah is back. And I think he has a chance to play good enough to be that other edge on pass rushing downs when LVN goes inside. Yet draft grades and analysts are significantly lower than him.
I understand that his tape didn’t quite reach his combine numbers. But considering he was productive and has those numbers, does he not have a high floor and ceiling. Is there something with him that I’m missing for why he’s not as high? What kept him from from going 2nd round when a bunch of other edges went on a run