Denver Broncos Select Derek Wolfe, DT, Cincinnati 2012 NFL Draft Grade
With the 36th pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos have selected Derek Wolfe, DT, Cincinnati.
Here is our report on Wolfe:
Pros:
Long arms
Consistent Production
Has the flexibility to play in both 4-3 and especially 3-4 Schemes
Strong at Point of attack
Has great swim move
Team leader
Great motor
Cons:
Has not played elite competition
Would be limited in a 4-3 scheme
Can be pancaked by large offensive lineman
Not the quickest player off the snap
Limited athlete
Doesn’t have great pursuit speed
Doesn’t win at the line of scrimmage quickly, he has to work a lot to get free
Player Comparison: Adam Carriker
Round Projection: Late 2nd to Early 3rd
Summary:
Derek Wolfe was always a solid player but has turned in an elite Senior Season which has turned him into a late Day 2, early day three Prospect. While he can play in both a 4-3 and 3-4, Wolfe would be much more productive in a 3-4 scheme. Wolfe has a great motor and uses his hands very well. He is more of a pass rusher than run stuffer but can hold his own against the run. Wolfe needs to get functionally stronger to hold at the base of the attack because he’s not going to be a pass rusher in a 34. Teams needing more pressure from their 3-4 lineman would be wise to use a 2nd round pick on him. Teams such as the Jets, Bills, Patriots, Chiefs, Chargers, Cowboys, Packers, and 49ers.
Pick Grade: A
The Broncos needed a defensive tackle and Wolfe was one of the best on the board. Highly productive kid who is an extremely hard worker and the Big East defensive playaer of the year after a huge senior season. I really like this pick for the Broncos.