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NFL Draft: 5 second round selections that can blossom into Pro Bowlers

By Rucker Haringey

MADISON, WI - OCTOBER 12: Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor (23) celebrates a touchdown during a Big Ten college football game between the University of Wisconsin Badgers and the Michigan State University Spartans on October 12, 2019 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, WI. (Photo by Lawrence Iles/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
MADISON, WI - OCTOBER 12: Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor (23) celebrates a touchdown during a Big Ten college football game between the University of Wisconsin Badgers and the Michigan State University Spartans on October 12, 2019 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, WI. (Photo by Lawrence Iles/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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Yetur Gross-Matos, NFL Draft
Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State Nittany Lions. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /

2. Yetur Gross-Matos

Gross-Matos is a bit of an acquired taste out on the defensive edge. He lacks the quick-twitch athleticism that NFL teams covet at that spot, but the combination of his elite length and bend allows him to still be a very effective pass rusher.

A good NFL comp for him would be Trey Flowers. Neither guy blows offensive tackles away with their speed rushes, but each guy finds a way to get home to the quarterback by using their other gifts.

Gross-Matos’ long arms allow him to prevent opposing offensive lineman from controlling him with their hands. Once they’re neutralized in that fashion it permits the former Penn State star to use his power and fluid hips to secure a route around them.

NFL talent evaluators love to bet on raw athleticism in the draft. That means they can overlook a prospect like Gross-Matos whose gifts are a little more subtle on tape. The combination of his measurables and collegiate production make him a great pick for a team in search of an edge rusher on Day Two.

Next. 1. Jonathan Taylor. dark

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