NFL Draft 2019 player rankings, Week 4: Defensive linemen rule

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 02: Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Nick Bosa (97) celebrates a sack during the Big 10 Championship game between the Wisconsin Badgers and Ohio State Buckeyes on December 2, 2017, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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ORLANDO, FL – SEPTEMBER 01: Alabama linebacker Mack Wilson (30) during the second half of the Camping World Kickoff game between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Louisville Cardinals on September 01, 2018, at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, FL. Alabama defeated Louisville 51-14. (Photo by Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

8. Mack Wilson, LB, Alabama

Height: 6’1″
Weight: 230
Class: Junior

By far the most polished linebacker at this point, Mack Wilson continues the trend of top-tier linebackers to come out of Alabama in the last few seasons. It’s tough to follow in the shoes of someone like Reuben Foster, but Wilson has the chance to be just as good if not better. Everything is set for him to become the top linebacker in the country. He is a smart and disciplined linebacker capable of diagnosing plays and attacking downhill. He does well to get around blocks to make plays in the run game.

Plus, at only 231 pounds, Wilson also fits the mold of a hybrid linebacker capable of staying on the field all three downs. He has the speed and range to be a middle linebacker at the next level and to excel in coverage. Despite getting around blocks, his size will be an issue for more disciplined offensive linemen. Overall, Wilson is a very talented player.

7. Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State

Height: 6’4″
Weight: 250
Class: Junior

There always seems to be an edge player in every draft who has the elite bend to turn the corner with ease. That guy for the 2019 NFL Draft is Florida State pass rusher, Brian Burns. With shades of Harold Landry from the 2018 draft, Burns looks so smooth in his ability to turn the corner and get to the quarterback. He gets his hands where they need to be when he is turning the corner as well.

Despite him being labeled as mostly that type of guy, Burns has other moves in his arsenal. He is quick enough athletically for an inside move and can use hand placement as well. It will be interesting to see if he can develop more of a pass rush plan this season, but other than that, he looks to have a pretty high ceiling going forward.

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