The Jacksonville Jaguars selected Taven Bryan with the 29th-pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Here is all you need to know about Bryan, including our grade.
Strengths
In a deep defensive tackle class, Florida’s Taven Bryan has been fighting for the top spot all offseason. After being a reserve for most of his career, Bryan took over the starting role for his junior season in Gainesville. Last season he showed how productive he can be in that role. One of the more rare athletes at the defensive tackle position, Bryan turns that athleticism loose any chance he gets.
When watching him on tape, his first step immediately attracts attention. His explosiveness is rare, and enables him to beat blockers to spots. He then is able to read and react once in the backfield with agility of a man much smaller than 291 pounds. There may not be a better interior pass rusher in the draft than Bryan.
His bend and agility, coupled with a strong lower body enable him to bend the edge outside of guards and disrupt the center of the pocket. Bryan has all the potential in the world and his best football is still ahead of him.
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Weaknesses
Bryan does not look the part of a defensive tackle. Despite being 6-foot-4 and 291 pounds, his body is built like a defensive end. As only a one-year starter, he is a raw prospect that relies heavily on athleticism to beat blocks. There is raw power there but it does not yet translate onto the field. He may take some time to get going once in the NFL.
Overall, his game is impressive but clearly raw. That raw athleticism and technique impact him on the field and led to underwhelming production while on campus. This is a bet that he will reach his potential. His current game gives hope but also induces some faith in his growth as a player.
Grade
Grade: B
Jacksonville could have added some help on the offense for a limited Blake Bortles, but decided to beef up the defense. Look for Bryan to be a rotational player when the team breaks training camp in August.