College Football Week 1: NFL Draft big board – Quarterbacks rule
Christian Wilkins
DL, Clemson
While the Clemson Tigers have had a lot of turnover from a National Championship roster, there defensive line is still loaded. In fact, it’s this defensive line that still has many believing they can be right back in the discussion again this season.
When it comes to the talent along the line, Christian Wilkins is going to be the next Tiger that gets love from scouts in a big way. While interior defensive lineman have a little bit tougher time shooting up higher in the draft than say an end, Wilkins is that talented.
Simply put, he’s an absolute freak and can do things that first-round picks at his position over recent years didn’t possess the ability to do. Athleticism is his calling card and that raises plenty of eyebrows. His production might not necessarily match on the stat sheet, but his physical gifts could make him surpass his predecessors.
Last season’s championship year saw him make 48 tackles and 13 that were for a loss. His athleticism allowed him frequent open shots in the backfield. His sack numbers don’t jump off the board, but it’s his ability to disrupt the run game and effectively null and void one part of the offense.